Weapons of Sri Dvaravati warriors from historical evidence in the Dvaravati period

Abstract

Weapons refer to sharp objects that can be stabbed, various weapons. Weapons or weapons are therefore important tools of Thai warriors since ancient times. It is one of the inventions of humanity that reflects the combination of culture, beliefs, shape creation. and the steps used in the production of each ethnic group resulting from the invention of indigenous wisdom Influenced by foreign cultures that pass on the prosperity of the metal karma which has evolved continuously and for a long time. There is historical and archaeological evidence that indicates that ancient weapons were found in Thailand. It began to develop since prehistoric times. Since around the 1st Buddhist century onwards. In the Dvaravati period Archaeological evidence has been discovered that confirms the use of weapons such as swords, knives and spears, which appear in stucco sculptures of people in the Dvaravati period. found in Nakhon Pathom Province and warriorshaped pottery patterns found in the ancient city of Chan Sen Nakhon Sawan Province by considering the dress and weapons in hand It is assumed that the figure is a warrior. Such evidence can attest to the existence of the monarchy. and warriors in the Dvaravati period. From the study, it was found that the styles of weapons of the Dvaravati period, such as swords, were influenced by ancient Chinese swords called "Huan Shuo Tao" or "sword after the hoop" or a straight blade called "Hengdao" that has been used since the Han Dynasty and the patterns of weapons may have been influenced by the devaracha beliefs and religious belief systems of Brahmins and Buddhism in the Dvaravati period. that appears in the shield which are auspicious symbols such as lotus, conch, swan and lion. In addition, weapons in the Dvaravati period may be used to represent the dignity of the owner Therefore, the form of weapons in the Dvaravati period that appeared may not be created for the sole benefit of use but has hidden foreign influences such as India and China in addition, the beliefs that arise from the transmission of patterns and simulating symbols of the gods have also been received or the weapon of the gods given to mankind to destroy the enemy for the victory against demons and fear. Therefore, it can be said that good weapons bring victory to the possessor. Weapons are therefore objects of belief, faith, ties, and rituals as the auspiciousness of life.