Supplementary information
• In Theravada Buddhism, the term Bhodhisattva refers to the many
previous lives of the Buddha before he achieved nirvana (freedom from
suffering and cycle of birth, death, and rebirth).
• The Mon is a group of people living in and around the southeastern
part of present-day Myanmar. They are believed to be one of the
earliest inhabitants of continental Southeast Asia, and introduced
Theravada Buddhism and writing to Myanmar.
• In Buddhist legends and myths, the naga is a demi-divine being
resembling a large serpent or dragon that dwells underwater. They are
believed to have magical powers to transform themselves into human
beings. The Cambodians (or Khmers) believe they are descendants
of Preah Thaong and Neang Tavottei, and many still say they are
“born from the naga.” The naga is also mentioned in the story Phya
Khankaak, the Toad King
• The story of Preah Thaong and Neang Tavottei is also the origin of
one rite in the Khmer wedding ceremony. In the current practice, the
groom holds on to a piece of cloth from the bride’s gown to symbolize
that the wedding ceremony has been completed. With the groom
clinging to the bride’s clothes, it also indicates that women lead the
family and society in Khmer custom.