The adoption of Indian principles of deva-raja
The ancient Khmer kings adopted a booming monarchy system of Indian civilization. Being admired as the deva-raja or god-king, the kings were able to rule over the empire with absolute power and godly kingship. This enhanced the kings to mobilize manpower to serve in its military unit to defend the state as well as to invade the neighbors. Additionally, the kings could sustain their extensive irrigation system that was the factor of its successful economy with their Khmer laborers and foreign slaves.
Moreover, the kings surrounded themselves with wise men or Khmer Brahmins as their counselors. The Brahmins acquired vast knowledge which were taught only within the family. These Brahmins help made an efficient administration of the country and so resulted in stronger territory.
Moreover, the kings surrounded themselves with wise men or Khmer Brahmins as their counselors. The Brahmins acquired vast knowledge which were taught only within the family. These Brahmins help made an efficient administration of the country and so resulted in stronger territory.
Strategic Site
The best strategic location of the Angkor by King Jayavarman II troubled the attack by enemies that enable its existence for over six centuries. The Angkor was settled in the North of Tonle Sap Lake, and the only one way for invaders to fight against the Angkor is by sailing up-stream from the Mekong River. Geographically, the Angkor was sheltered by forests of all sides. The land access with large armed force could become a tragedy. The weapons and troops had to be delivered in a long line that couldn't support each other in case of outbreak. When the enemies wanted to invade the Angkor, they have to sail up from the river only to meet with the robust naval force of Angkor upstream. The enemy's battle ships moved slower thus became easier to be attacked. Angkor lose only one major battle on Tonle Sap to Champa in 1171 throughout the history of over 600 years.
Mastery over Water Management
The geographical location of the Angkor Empire itself faces 2 extreme seasons, i.e. the significant rainfall throughout Monsoon and the dry period throughout the off-Monsoon season. Various large ponds and moats, dikes, reservoirs, helped significantly to prevent floods over the farmland during the rainfall in Monsoon and for use during the dry season. The efficient and in depth irrigation system of the ancient Khmer enabled the empire to cultivate crops 2 to 3 times a year which led to high productivity and powerful economy of the Angkor Empire.