Isan Stupas: Reflections of Value, Utilization and Cultural Heritage

Nowadays much religious architecture has been destroyed, which affects the local religious identity of Isan people. Valuable aspects of community culture have been lost, so this research aims: 1) to study the history of IsanSim and 2) to reflect on the value of utilization and cultural heritage of IsanSim. For this research, data was collected through field notes in the provinces of Mahasarakham, Kalasin and RoiEt. The research sample was selected by purposive sampling and totaled 81 individuals. Analysis was conducted by analytic induction and typological analysis. The results show that the first stage of Sim construction in Isan was influenced by LanXang culture and later incorporated architectural styles of the Rattanakosin period. This became the identity of IsanSim, as remains in the architecture of WatPhotharam, Wat Yang Thawongwararam and WatKlangKosum in Mahasarakham Province, Wat Wang NueaThamuang and Wat Sri Than in Roi Ed Province and WatUdompracharat, WatUmungkla and WatKlangKok Kho in Kalasin Province. The Sim of Isanare almost exclusively used for activities of the clergy. People in the community will promote clerical activities according to the belief that those who help to promote deeds such as kathin and especially ordination ceremonies will get great merit. The value of Sim is in their collections of community history. In addition, Sim are valuable pieces of local architecture that reflect the origins of tradition. Patterns incorporated on Simarchitecture are collaborations between various branches of local craftsmen. In addition, Sim reflect the important doctrines of Buddhism on their inner and outer walls.