The spirits grow restless... in order to continue your journey to becoming a revered immortal, you must learn about the creatures who live in darkness.
This book is a collection of information revolving around creatures and well-known myths from Asi...
Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia, bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. The capital and largest city is Phnom Penh. The official language and national language is Khmer, and the official script is also Khmer.
Cambodian/Khmer mythology is rich and complex, with a pantheon of gods and goddesses closely associated with Hinduism and Buddhism due to the historical influence of these religions on Cambodia. Many of the mythological elements in Cambodia are also intertwined with religious practices, festivals, and temple iconography.
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Gods, Goddesses, and Guardians
Preah Thaong and Neang Neak are considered the progenitors of the Khmer people. They emerged from a cavity in a bamboo stalk and gave birth to the first Khmer, according to legend.
Indra (Phra In) is a major deity in Hindu mythology and is also revered in Khmer culture. He is the king of the heavens, the god of rain, thunder, and lightning.
Vishnu (Phra Wisnu) is another Hindu god venerated in Khmer mythology. He is the preserver of the universe and is often associated with benevolence.
Shiva (Phra Iswara), one of the principal deities of Hinduism, is also worshipped in Cambodia. He is considered the god of destruction and transformation.
Brahma (Phra Prom) is the creator god in Hinduism, and his role is also recognized in Khmer mythology.
Yama (Dharmaraja) is the god of death and justice. In Khmer mythology, Yama plays a significant role in determining the fate of souls after death.
Phra Mae Thorani is a Chthonic goddess from the Buddhist mythology of Theravada in Southeast Asia. She is known as the goddess of the earth and is often depicted in a reclining position.
Apsaras are celestial nymphs who are often depicted as dancers. They are believed to be the wives of the Gandharvas, who are celestial musicians. Apsaras are commonly found in bas-reliefs of Angkor temples such as the Preah Khan and Angkor Wat.
Devi is the mother goddess of Hinduism and is often depicted as a fierce warrior. She is also known as Durga, Kali, and Parvati. In Khmer mythology, she is often depicted riding a lion or tiger.
Lokesvara is a bodhisattva of compassion in Buddhism. She is often depicted with multiple arms and heads, and is sometimes referred to as the "Goddess of Mercy."
Yakshi is a female nature spirit in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain mythology. She is often depicted as a beautiful woman who is associated with fertility and vegetation. In Khmer mythology, she is often depicted holding a lotus flower.
Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge, music, and the arts in Hinduism. She is often depicted playing a musical instrument called a veena and is associated with the color white. In Khmer mythology, she is often depicted holding a book or playing a musical instrument.
Lok Ta Dambong Kroar (Grandfather Dambong Kroar), a revered spirit in Cambodian folklore, Lok Ta Dambong Kroar is believed to protect the land and its people, often associated with the local spirits of nature.
The Makara is a mythical sea creature often used as a decorative motif in Khmer art and architecture. It is a symbol of protection and is often depicted in temple facades and lintels.
Neang Khmau (Black Lady) is a female guardian spirit associated with rivers, lakes, and natural water sources. She is often appeased to ensure safe passage and good fishing.
Neang Thalay (Lady of the Sea) is a guardian spirit of the sea, believed to protect fishermen and sailors.
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