Religion
| Cambodian
Culture |
American
Majority Culture |
 |
| Theraveda
Buddhism is the majority religion. The Cham minority
practices Islam and about 60,000 are considered Christians
(Hooker, 1996).
|
Protestantism
is the majority religion. Many religions are represented
in the United States. It is also possible to find worship
services in a variety of languages. |
The Khmer
Rouge destroyed most of the temples, killed monks and
tried to eliminate their practice and beliefs. In 1989,
the government declared that the Buddhist religion was
once again the country’s main religion. The belief
in Buddhist principles and teachings often dominate
everyday life. |
There is separation
between Church and States. Religious symbols are
not displayed in public buildings, including
public schools. Religion does not interfere with teaching
in the public school settings. Religious symbols are not
displayed in public buildings, including public schools.
Religion in public schools is studied as a subject in
the upper grades, but its symbols are not displayed. |
| Upon the death
of a close relative, family members, including children,
may wear black to express mourning. In addition, some
children may also wear a black scarf on their heads when
mourning is for a mother or a father. |
Death of a
close relative or family member is generally mourned for
one week. Special clothing to mark mourning is not worn
outside the traditional services. |
In the U.S., Buddhist temples have sprung up in areas with
a large concentration of Cambodians, and many Cambodians are
trying to bring back the teachings of Buddhism in their daily
lives. These beliefs are generally believed to have helped
Cambodians survive the incredible hardships that generations
have endured. (Brigham Young University, 2003). |
