| The Arrival of Hinduism and Buddhism While social formations were enlarging in the agricultural lands of Burma, Thailand, and Indochina, maritime centers were being set up in the coastal areas of Indonesia and Malaysia. Their voyages in search of trade brought them to India and Ceylon where they learned about the wisdom of Hinduism and Buddhism, both religions tracing their origin to the Indian subcontinent. Hinduism and Buddhism accompanied the rise of the magnificent states, empires, and kingdoms of Cambodia, Burma, Laos, Thailand, and Indonesia. Both religions were practiced simultaneously across the region, and taught the Southeast Asians the sanctity of life and the virtues of moderation, compassion, and respect for all. This highly moral code of life is evident in the skill, finesse, and inventiveness of the colossal architecture and graceful art forms of the region. It is noteworthy that Buddhism was accepted and flourished more widely in Southeast Asia than in India, the land of its birth. Today, it is the dominant religion of mainland Southeast Asia. |
