Summary
Highlights
King Jayavarman VII led the Khmer to drive away invaders, established universities, built hospitals, founded a vast centralized state hospital network, constructed roads and 121 rest houses, raised over 300 temples, and built extensive water systems. He was a warrior king who saved the empire and helped it rise to its peak.
Born around 1125, King Jayavarman VII was the son of King Dharanindra II and Queen Sri Jayarajakurani. He studied mathematics, physics, military skills, and Mahayana Buddhism. He lived over 90 years and had wives, Queens Jayarajadevi and Indradevi, and many children, including King Indrawarman as his successor.
After his father passed away, King Jayavarman VII was not crowned. Another king seized the throne, leading him to move to Champa (now central Vietnam). He spent over 10 years there, studying warfare, engineering, and deepening his faith in Buddhism, patiently awaiting his return.
When the foreign Cham army attacked, killed the king, and sacked the capital, Jayavarman VII returned from Champa, led his forces, and drove out the Cham. Crowned at 60, he made Angkor Thom the capital, which grew to a million people. He built temples for his parents, Bayon with 54 faces representing 54 provinces, universities, and hospitals.
King Jayavarman VII developed advanced water systems, connecting them across the land for health, farming, peace, and care. His commitment to his people was encapsulated in his proclamation, "The suffering of my people is my own suffering." He governed with the 10 virtues of a righteous king, prioritizing the collective benefit of his people and nation.
His legacy is remembered for his light and grace, with his deeds guiding future generations. The video poses questions about his dedication to raising the nation to its peak and the message he intended to leave. It encourages current and future generations to follow his example: never give up, stand together, act with virtue, and always think of the collective benefit of the people and nation.