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Mythology of water : The « nâga » snake

Nowadays as in the past, water is a fundamental element of the Khmer life. As it is in the universe, survival constantly depends on water, to drink, to cook, to irrigate and therefore to cultivate. Around every house in the Cambodian countryside, there is a trapeang (pond) which fill up and dry at the rhythm of the seasons.

But in Cambodia the role of this vital water is not only linked to the daily life aspects but also to local mythological traditions to its constant symbol the Naga snake. This mythic animal, a poly-cephalous cobra, is the common symbol of all South East Asian people originating from the Indian culture they have adopted and adapted. The Naga is related for immemorial times to water and to all the wealth it brings. Therefore the image of this snake, guardian of the treasures in its underground domain rapidly stood out.

Khmer hydraulic

Water was an irregular resource and the surplus had to be stored for use in the dry season. The Khmer kings understood this as soon as in the 5th century.

But innumerable Khmer inscriptions precisely refer to water and to the building of dikes, ponds and draining operations referring as well to daily life than spiritual life.


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