Heritage and Language Values Hidden in Khmer Palm Leaf Manuscripts in An Giang Province, Vietnam

Abstract

The manuscripts on Khmer palm leaves in An Giang province are a distinctive element of the cultural and linguistic heritage of the Khmer community in southern Vietnam. These manuscripts, made from processed palm leaves, serve as a repository of Buddhist scriptures, sacred texts, and traditional knowledge, reflecting the spiritual and cultural values of the Khmer people within the Theravada Buddhist tradition. This study examines the origins, the techniques of manuscript creation, and their cultural significance, highlighting their role in preserving the Khmer language and traditional teachings. The study also addresses the challenges posed by environmental degradation and the decline of traditional craftsmanship, which threaten the preservation of these manuscripts. The research employs methods such as ethnographic observation, document analysis, and interviews to clarify how data is collected and how this information will be used in the study. Along with providing criteria for selecting research subjects and locations, including pagodas in Tri Tôn and Tịnh Biên districts, the study is more systematic and verifiable, enhancing the scientific rigor and reliability of the results. The study proposes solutions such as raising community awareness, applying digital preservation methods, and encouraging community participation in preservation efforts. Through this, the research emphasizes the importance of Khmer palm leaf manuscripts as a cultural treasure and their relevance in preserving Khmer heritage and identity in the modern era.