ABOUT US
Hope/Dreams:
In the early 1980s, the Khmer, a pioneering group of Cambodian settlers, set foot on the verdant landscapes of Washington State. They were the vanguard, the first of their kind, navigating an uncharted terrain and wrestling with a language as alien as the land itself. Amidst these challenges, they discovered solace in unity, in the collective memories of their homeland, and in the complex wave of their shared culture.
The Khmer Buddhist Society of Seattle, also known as Dhammacakkaram, sprouted. from this need for connection. It was more than a sanctuary for worship; it was a beacon of hope, a refuge where they could assemble, exchange their stories, and find comfort in their shared heritage. The temple served as a bridge, linking the new world they were exploring with the old world they had left behind. The term Dhammacakkaram, a blend of the Khmer language with roots in Pali and Sanskrit, some of the world’s oldest scriptures, signifies the dependent origination of the worldly life cycle.
The temple was their sanctuary, their guide, their anchor. It was their refuge when the language barrier seemed insurmountable when the cultural differences felt overwhelming. It was where they sought help, guidance, and support. It was where they connected with their ancestors, keeping their traditions alive for future generations.
Transformational change:
Over the years, the Dhammacakkaram has gone through its hardship of ups and down, mainly the Covid-19 impacts, and its transformational leadership changes yet remained steadfast in its mission. Today, under our new leadership team as we are continuing to thrive serving the Cambodian (Khmer) community and providing a space for social gatherings, cultural preservation, and spiritual guidance. Yet, despite its invaluable service, it remains underserved, receiving little to no support from the local government, perhaps due to the lock of outreach programs or funding sources that are available, or
But the spirit of the Khmer Buddhist Society is resilient. It thrives on the strength of its community, on the unwavering faith of its people. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of culture, heritage, and unity. It is a symbol of the Cambodian American journey, a journey marked by struggle, resilience, and an unwavering sense of community.
And so, the story of the Khmer Buddhist Society of Seattle continues, a story of resilience, of community, and of a deep, enduring connection to a rich cultural heritage. It is a story that is written not just in the annals of history, but in the hearts of the Cambodian community in Washington State. It is a story that will continue to inspire, to guide, and to remind us of the power of unity in the face of adversity. Dhammacakkaram has been a cornerstone of life here in American society, serving as the progenitor of all other emerging branches of Temples and Khmer Communities around our states, supporting in many aspects, Traditional Khmer Languages, Spiritual well-being, translation assistance, social functions, nurturing children, Senior functions, funeral services, and addressing the needs of elders in the last stage of their life (hospice services). Now, this oldest Community in Seattle has combined with our newest branch, CAMRISE (Cambodian American Multicultural Resources and Interactive Social Engagement) and continues to grow stronger than ever before.
OUR TEAM
Henry Tea
(Senior Advisor/P.R)
Soveth Moun
(Chairman)
Venerable: Bunda Pheng
(Monastery Principal)
Nhean Kao
(Ahchan/program advisor)
Sohpall Im
(Secretory)