AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF THE SUPERSTITION BELIEF IN THE BUDDHIST SOCIETY IN THE PRESENT CAMBODIA

Abstract

The thesis entitled “An Analytical Study of the Superstition Belief in the Buddhist Society in the Present Cambodia” consists of 3 objectives as 1) to study the origin and development of the superstition belief, 2) to explore the context and the way of life of Buddhist society in Cambodia and 3) to analyze the superstition belief in the Buddhist society in the present Cambodia.

From the study, it can be found that:

Superstition is available all over the world. We can say that wherever humans have lived, superstition exists therein. It is generally accepted that superstition is due to the fear caused by natural disasters. There are two main types of superstition: white magic and black magic. The former is for making goodness while the latter is for creating evil. Some superstitions cannot be conclusively determined as white or black; they may be either black or white based on the intent of the user. Therefore, such superstition can be mentioned as grey magic.

In the society of Cambodia, persons beholding Buddhism often have superstitious beliefs simultaneously. In principle, Buddhism and superstition are different. The reasons for merging superstition in Cambodia with Buddhism may come from Buddhist monks who perform superstition ceremonies. As viewed in terms of society, Buddhism and superstition can go the same way. That is why the elder Buddhist masters deferred to monks taking part in superstition. Besides, taking superstition preceding Buddhism is for those who believe in superstition to come closer to Buddhism increasingly. This can make it easier to insert the principles of Buddhism later.

The relationship of beliefs in superstition and Buddhism of Tahong Community can be seen that the general opinions of both are in the same manner; bringing symbols of faith to be the nature of holy things, and giving practical meaning and purpose in bringing benefits to their daily lives. Such beliefs can be taken as a guide to conduct morale in living and as a significant tradition of Tahong Community. It is very difficult to separate the Buddhist tradition from superstition. Lastly, it can be said that in the above community Buddhism and superstition are compatible and closely complementary, with Buddhism as a core for both beliefs.