According to research by ancient language scholars, it has been found that the inscription belongs to King Jayavarman VII, the monarch of the Khmer Empire. This inscription highlights the significant contributions of his reign, particularly regarding the construction of hospitals or healing halls across the Khmer Kingdom, a total of 102 such establishments. Furthermore, he commissioned the creation of a statue referred to in the inscription as “Bhaisajyaguru Vaiduryaprabha,” the Buddha who protects and heals all beings. Currently, in Thailand, at least nine inscriptions related to healing halls have been discovered. Most of these inscriptions contain similar content, differing only in specific details depending on the location and size of the archaeological sites. The main messages showcased in these inscriptions can be summarized as follows: 1. The first section praises the Buddha and extols the noble intentions of King Jayavarman VII, the monarch of the Khmer Empire. 2. The second section contains slightly varying phrases in each inscription, mentioning the appointment of officials who are responsible for overseeing the healing halls. 3. The third section discusses offerings and the quantities of items provided to each healing hall. 4. The fourth section outlines the rituals performed and the astrologers, as well as a list of consumables granted to the performers of rituals and astrologers throughout the year, noting that each healing hall received unequal distributions. Additionally, it highlights the royal merit and the intentions of King Jayavarman VII regarding the establishment of the healing halls.
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Ku Phon Rakhang
Province: Roi Et