Prevalence Of Religion

Introduction

Religion is prevalent in modern day Southeast Asia. Prevalence can be defined as being widespread and great in intensity of practice and happening. There is a great diversity of religions present in Southeast Asia, and not one country is homogenous1. Initially, most of Southeast Asia believed and practiced in animism2. During the 1st to 4th century CE, Indianization3 came to Southeast Asia, resulting in cultural and economic influences. Theravada Buddhism4 soon followed in 525. Prior to the 13th century, Hinduism and Buddhism were the main religions in Southeast Asia. In the 15th century, Islamic influences began to enter Southeast Asia; this was known as Islamization. Christianity finally picked up pace in Southeast Asia during the period of colonization5 by the West.

Prevalence of Religion

Religion grew in prominence and is widely practiced by Southeast Asians, clearly evident by its

10metal frames used in the Thaipusam festival.

11Marha Puha is a festival that takes place on the night of the Full Moon in February. It commemorates an inspirational speech given by the Buddha, in which he dictated the first monastic rules to a group of over one thousand enlightened monks. He even prophesized his own death. Marha Puha takes place mainly in Laos’ capital, Vientiane, and in the Khmer ruins of Wat Phu, near Champasak. There are grand parades and the circling of temples with candles, as well as religious music and chanting during this sacred Buddhist festival.

12Held on the night of the full moon in May, Waisak is a sacred festival that commemorates the birth of Buddha, his enlightenment and his death. It is mainly celebrated by Buddhist communities throughout Java. There are ceremonial offerings such as fruits and flowers, along with thousands of candles that symbolize Buddha’s enlightenment; lighting the darkness. Processions are also held throughout the