Inscription of Wat Phou K.367

The Wat Phou Inscription, discovered in 1901, measures 1.59 meters in height and 0.86 meters in width. The upper section is adorned with a trident (trisula), flanked by intricate floral designs. Written in Sanskrit, the 10-line inscription dates back to the reign of King Jayavarman I.

In 1902, this inscription was studied and translated by Mr. Auguste Barth. The text primarily describes acts of devotion to Lord Shiva, laudatory expressions, and royal edicts issued by King Jayavarman I. The decree strictly forbids harming any living beings residing in the abode of the gods at Lingaparvata (the original name of Wat Phou Temple); also forbidden was riding chariots, using umbrellas, waving ornate fans, keeping dogs, or raising roosters within the sacred area.

The final line of the inscription firmly declares that all people on Earth must not violate this royal decree.