The Myth of the Sacred Turtles of Angkor
The turtle is a powerful symbol of longevity, strength, and fertility across many ancient civilizations. In ancient Chinese and Indian cultures, it is revered as a sacred creature embodying the universe. Turtles are often associated with wisdom, knowledge, the ocean, the moon, the earth, time, and immortality. Ancient beliefs held that turtles possessed magical powers connected to the creation of the world, owing to their ability to support the weight of the world.
At Angkor, the sacred turtle is a prominent symbol, depicted in various forms. These include large carved stone statues and smaller votive sculptures used as offerings in temple foundations. The most striking representations are found in the bas-reliefs of Angkor Wat, which feature intricate carvings telling mythical stories.
One of the most significant myths involving the turtle is the “Churning of the Ocean of Milk,” or Samudra Manthana, detailed in ancient Sanskrit texts of Hindu mythology. In this legend, Mount Mandara serves as the churning post, and it is stabilized by Kurma Raja, the Turtle King. Kurma Raja, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, plays a crucial role in this cosmic event, supporting the mountain during the churning process to release the Amrita, the nectar of immortality. The Turtle King represents divine and creative power essential for this sacred task.
In contemporary Cambodia, the turtle continues to hold significance. Turtle releases are common in religious rituals, performed to gain merit, and these ceremonies are still conducted at royal courts and Buddhist temples throughout the Kingdom.
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