Religion in Maritime South East Asia

Old Javanese sources from the 1100th century mention three religions under the supervision of the central government: Saivas(worshipers of Siva), Buddhists, and Reis Brahmins). Important Tantric rites were performed by Buddhist monks and court Brahmin. In Java, then as now, there were other religions and sects at greater distance from the large centers of power. Saints referred to by Saivas of the time were: Kusika, Garga, Maitri, Kurusya, and Patanjali. They also mention he teacher Agastya.


It is good to realize that from, at least, 400 BC to 1300 AD there is nearly constant sea commerce with India and more intermittent commerce with China and Maritime SEA.


As we well know Islam later became the main religion of  Maritime SEA with the exception of the Philippines. Buddhism became the main religion of mainland SEA. Islam took hold in SEA more than 6 centuries after the foundation of Islam in the Middle East. The first center of power for Islam in SEA was probably a Aceh, of recent tsunami fame. Islam rose in Malacca and spread in all directions, including Patani in southern Thailand.