Question

briefly explain the conditions that facilitated the spread of Hinduism in southeast Asia and the Indonesian archipelago in the period 1250 to 1450

Answer 1

Various conditions facilitated the spread of Hinduism in Southeast Asia and the Indonesian archipelago from 1250 to 1450, including trade and outside influence, coexistence with local religions, and Islamic expansion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The spread of Hinduism in Southeast Asia and the Indonesian archipelago from 1250 to 1450 was facilitated by various conditions:

1. Trade and outside influence: Southeast Asia was a center of trade, attracting merchants and missionaries from India. Indian elites and literate Buddhists, known as purohita, became advisors to Southeast Asian rulers and played a crucial role in spreading Hinduism.
2. Coexistence with local religions: In many regions, Buddhism and Hinduism coexisted with indigenous religions. For example, the kingdom of Srivijaya patronized Buddhism while incorporating its own religious traditions, fostering trade relations with India.
3. Islamic expansion: In the 13th century, Islam began to spread in Southeast Asia. Merchants converted to Islam to protect their goods, and Sufi missionaries blended Islam with local traditions, encouraging non-merchants to convert. Islam eventually dominated the region.