象神的來歷

像神,在泰國稱之為帕比加涅,是婆羅門至高無上的神之一的濕婆天王和帕爾瓦蒂女神的長子,是一尊倍受歡迎的印度教神袛。濕婆天神是婆羅門至高無上的神袛特里穆迪的一部分,而帕爾瓦蒂女神則是至尊女神沙克蒂的一部分。象神的來原記載在濕婆往世書中,是濕婆教經文料庫的一部分。像神是最受歡迎的印度教神袛,也被視為神的酋長,所有宗教儀式必須首先通過祂,因為唯有祂能清除所有障礙並確保一切成功。人們相信賈商若求有成必須敬拜象神。

象神甘尼薩的誕生

在濕婆經文中有記錄,有一天,帕爾瓦蒂女神告訴南迪,一個被指派為帕爾瓦蒂女神的保鏢的濕婆天王旗下能幹部將之一,祂不想在洗澡時被打擾,包括祂的丈夫濕婆天王在內。南迪忠實地接受祂的任命,但當濕婆天王回到家時,南迪試圖阻止祂,但濕婆天王畢竟是祂的主子,所以當濕婆天王堅持時,南迪也唯有讓祂通過。帕爾瓦蒂女神對發生的事情暗暗感到憤怒,部下竟沒有一個真正忠心與祂。

在另一天,當帕爾瓦蒂女神希望洗澡時不被打擾,但是祂不再吩咐南迪站崗,祂從自己身體中取出薑黃膏(用於沐浴)並將生命吸入其中,她創造了一個年輕部將。帕爾瓦蒂女神把部將認作自己的忠誠兒子並且把站崗任務交付兒子。

當濕婆天王回到家時,發現其竟被一個小男童擋在門外,剝奪了入家門的權利。濕而天王對男童的冒犯感到憤怒並命令祂的士兵摧毀小男童。然而,他們失敗了。他們輕而易舉就被小男孩擊敗,因此,迫使濕婆天王親自向小男童勳手。

卡莉女神

作為至尊神之一,濕婆天王輕易便擊敗了小男童,但出於盲目的憤怒,其竟下手把小男童的六陽之首切了下來。當帕爾瓦蒂女神目睹這一幕時,祂憤怒極了,祂變成了祂那多臂惡魔形像的死亡女神,卡利。卡莉女神揚言要摧毀萬物,那難免驚動了萬物讓創造者,梵天大天王霸拉瑪,也是一般人熟悉的帕蓬“四面佛”。梵天大天王霸拉瑪試圖挽救岌岌可危的局面,而死亡女神卡利規定了兩個條件,若要挽救萬物,首先,必須使小男童復活,其次,在此之後,把小男童封為眾神之首,且在所有宗教儀式中享受優先祭拜。

濕婆天王非常了解妻子的脾氣,並意識到自己魯莽的後果。祂請求梵天大天王霸拉瑪向北方行且把第一時間發現的生物首級取回來。梵天大天王霸拉瑪在到達北方時發現了一頭大象,因此便把大像的頭帶了回來,由濕婆天​​王將它和毫無生命的小男孩屍體連接在一起。燃後,濕婆天王把自己的靈氣一氣灌入小男童體內,使小男童起死回生並宣布祂為自己的兒子。

在三位至高無上的神,即梵天大天王霸拉瑪,濕婆天王和毘濕奴天王三得同意下,像神被賦予眾神之首,並將在所有宗教儀式中先受崇拜。從那時起,像神也接受了祂的另一個名字“甘納帕迪” – 眾神的領袖。

中央世界象神

像神在泰國被稱為帕比加涅,受到泰國人的廣泛崇拜。帕比加涅有很多寺廟和神社。最容易到達的是中央世界,拉吉馬里路的像神神社,一處泰國和外國人經常聚合的象神神社。

瓦萨曼拉塔纳然佛寺

另一個吸引了來自世界各地遊客的象神廟宇是位於北柳府的瓦薩曼拉塔納然佛寺,該佛寺立有一尊16米高,22米長的斜倚的象神神像。

除了消除障礙之外,泰國人習慣在開辦企業,開始長途旅行,開始新建築或訂婚或婚禮期間都向象神祈禱。象神也很受泰國大學生的歡迎,不是因為象神將代替他們考試, 而是祂將為他們消除所有學習的障礙。像神也因其對美術的熱情而聞名,因此被認為是鼓勵創造力的神袛。因為以上原因,像神也成為泰國藝術部和希臘帕孔大學的標誌。

聚佛樓

聚佛樓商標

本行從開業之際也採用象神為標誌。象神端坐我們公司泰國名字中間,祂包含了本公司的使命,即“鼓勵人們前來祈禱(海螺殼牌),在正確的道路上(象牙 )通過愛,智慧和行動(三叉戟)將他們拉到最高目標(繩索)”。

泰國傳奇之常勝將軍(二)

第二集

神話與傳說:一種辯證的方法

在本文的第一集中,我們簡要討論了神話和傳說的起源和重要性,以及一些神話中出現的與歷史性有關的問題。許多作家傾向於將神話和歷史置於兩個極端點。更有歷史學家出於某種原因自承擔了從歷史中刪除所有神話痕跡的義務,但是具有諷刺意味的是,歷史與神話同樣皆存有扭曲或半真半假的記載。

囊蘋琵啦萊畫像

讓我們以夏朝(公元前2200 – 1760年)為例。在發現放射性定年之前,夏朝被認為為是中國童話故事,直2007 – 2009年方在使用放射性定年鑑定下才被證明是歷史事實。相反的,有許多歷史人物或事件在某種政治和利益原因之下,逐漸被附加上一層超自然因數把該歷史人物或事件給神化。施倫普和漢森在他們的書“神話:一個新的研討會“中,解說這種行為為藉用神話來提升主題的權威性和真實性。目前台灣的政治局面恰好對於“借用神話來提升主題的權威性和真實性”這種行為给我們提供了一個非常好的例子,如“媽祖”顯靈命某某人參選等等。絕對真理必須產生絕對的確定性,不受主觀解釋的影響,堅定不移地忍受時間的考驗,例如死亡。無論你是“好額人”還“散赤人”,漂亮或醜陋,受過教育還是文盲,你的終極命運都是死亡,這是絕對肯定的最終結果。因此理解後一命題並不難,我們也大膽的建議鑑於歷史本身並不包含絕對真理,而只不過是最有可能性的“真理”。

因此,即使在批判性歷史方面,也沒有人會知道真相,除却個人經歷。 西尔在“歷史與理論雜誌”上發表的一篇文章中得出結論認為,“因為兩者相互滲透”性所以歷史和神話根本无法绝对的分類。 作為上座部佛教徒,我們既不傳播迷信也不傳播無神論,但却反映佛陀所教導的適度法。 我們堅持上座部佛教的基本原則,特別是基於我們辯證方法的智慧,使我們的讀者能夠得出自己的結論。

故事繼續

瓦曼感佛寺于佛歷2492開光,常勝將軍坤平.

拍驕以瓦帕勒萊佛寺沙彌的身份重返回素攀府。他英俊的外表贏得了許多年輕女孩的芳心,他們在每天早晨的“塔罷”或布施儀式時,期待看到他,且用許多食物填滿他的缽。當然,囊蘋琵啦萊也不例外。

有一天,在瓦帕勒萊佛寺有一場由囊蘋琵啦萊贊助的法會,拍驕恰好被方丈指定誦達經文。那也是三個童年時代的朋友分別多年後再次聚在一起的一天。囊蘋琵啦萊被年輕英俊的拍驕深深吸引,無法抑制自己的情懷,她將“薩掰”(圍肩布)取下並當众奉獻給身為沙彌的拍驕。一直暗戀著囊蘋琵啦萊的坤昌亦迅速摘下“帕瑪”(頭飾)並將其放在囊蘋琵啦萊的圍肩布上,且公開要求沙彌給予他們兩人將作為一對夫婦聚在一起的祝福。囊蘋琵啦萊對坤昌的舉動感到非常生氣。

坤昌在意識中感受到了拍驕的威脅,他也感受到了囊蘋琵啦萊對後者的愛慕。因此,坤昌糾纏他的母親囊帖桐吵著她前往向囊斯里帕蟬提親,撮合他和囊蘋琵啦萊的婚姻。坤昌甚至帶去了“鑫梭”即聘金,“鑫梭”通常是在一位少女的父母同意該提親後再商議的。囊蘋琵啦萊強烈反對該門親事。

座落于瓦卡爾的坤平神像

後來,拍驕也隨著還俗並與囊蘋琵啦萊結婚。這對夫妻沉醉在愛河中,無法忍受彼此分離。儘管囊蘋琵啦萊與拍驕已經結了婚,但坤昌並沒有放棄她並且一直在計謀如何把她從拍驕身邊奪過來。不巧在囊琵啦萊和拍驕新婚不久,順德帕潘瓦薩接到消息,稱大城府的一個小支流蔣通國,據信當前位於清萊省東北部的清孔鎮,已經叛變並轉而效忠於清邁國。順德帕潘瓦薩在極度憤怒之下打算派軍隊懲罰蔣通國。

蔣通國究竟在哪裡?

許多泰國學者和歷史學家都對蔣通國位在清萊的說法提出異議,並認為它應該是位於現在的清邁南部的鐘通市地區。事實上,當我們調查坤平將軍與清邁戰鬥的戰爭數次時,這個論點聽起來更合乎邏輯。如果蔣通國是位於清萊的話,那麼當時坤平將軍就可以避開清邁軍隊的主力,他進軍的路線因該從素攀武裡穿過那空沙旺府,甘烹碧府,拉亨府,特恩府到帕堯府再進入清萊。

進軍路線圖一

然而,據說坤平將軍與清邁大軍進行了多次戰爭,但沒有直接攻擊清邁國。這再次與歷史記錄保持一致,因為儘管與清邁國不斷戰爭,大城府從未征服過清邁國( 1259年至1892)。清邁國是在1893年才成為暹羅國(現在的泰國王國)的一部分。因此,如果蔣通國確實在清邁的鐘通市地區那麼坤平將軍的軍隊在前往蔣通國的過程中不斷與清邁大軍交鋒就合理,因為從特恩府他不得不穿越當時位於清邁國的南奔府並將他的部隊沿著平河遊行方可抵達清邁南部的鐘通市地區。

進軍路線圖二

然而,深入了解古蔣通國位置並不是本文的要提但以上的推論足以為讀者提供想像的骨架背景。

坤昌孕育了他的第一個預謀

當順德帕潘瓦薩得知蔣通國倒向清邁國和清邁軍隊的實力情報時,他對多年前冒失處決身邊猛坤凱彭深感遺憾和後悔。如今遇到強悍的清邁軍隊他又能讓誰帶領他的軍隊對抗敵人呢?正當順德帕潘瓦薩懊惱時,坤昌乘機向國王提到坤凱彭的兒子拍驕,且捏造了關於拍驕等等武藝事蹟,目的就是希望拍驕被召為國家服務,那麼就不得不與囊蘋琵啦萊分開,最好是拍驕能死在戰場上。順德帕潘瓦薩聞言後,想虎父無犬子,深信拍驕的确續傳他父親的能耐,於是便下旨召拍驕擔任皇家軍隊指揮官,領兵懲罰蔣通國。

夢想實現

拍驕從小就盼望長大後像父親一樣做一名大將,因此,儘管是新婚,他一收到國王的旨意便迅速帶著母親囊彤帕薩和妻子囊蘋琵啦萊前往大城府受命。順德帕潘瓦薩正式任命拍驕為皇家軍隊的指揮官,並賜他寶劍和盔甲,且封號為坤平大將軍。

瓦卡爾佛寺神樹

誓言和菩提樹儀式

隨著坤平開始整頓軍隊並準備出兵討伐蔣通國時,囊蘋琵啦萊感到沮喪和擔憂,變得如同面臨生離死別。一天早上,坤平領著愛妻一同到家外的一顆菩提樹前,準備祭品,開壇施法召喚森林地主山神,要求地主山神為證,若他戰死戰場,讓菩提樹也一同死去,否則菩提樹就會變得更堅強。然後他轉身告訴他的妻子囊蘋琵啦萊,菩提樹將讓她知道他的生與死,因此,她沒有什麼可擔心的了。

漫長戰爭之旅

坤平將軍领着军隊從素攀府穿過那空沙旺府,甘烹碧府,拉亨府(目前是泰國西部的達府),特恩府(目前南邦府)直指向蔣通國前进。一路上,坤平將軍的部队和清邁軍隊交战无数次。據說坤平將軍並未曾吃过一場败战,所以贏得常勝將軍的頭銜。許多故事都融入了法術和巫術的鬥爭,但我們不會在這裡重複那些,只在此提及,除其他事項之外,據說坤平將軍因使用古代泰國“孔卡盘”即无敌法術召喚戰士靈魂,助提升士兵無所畏懼的精神才贏得了每場戰鬥。這也是為什麼敵人的屍體鋪滿了整条通往蔣通國的道路的原因。

坤昌的第二個預謀

關於坤平將軍離家後所發生的事情至少有兩個不同版本的故事。然而,我們既然介紹了上述的菩提樹儀式,於是我們便將在這裡繼續使用菩提樹版本。但是,為了滿足讀者的好奇心,我們稍後還會提供其他另一版本的簡要說明。

自從坤平將軍參戰以來,囊蘋琵啦萊就非常想念丈夫,甚至因而高燒而逐漸病重,草藥皆對她沒有任何作用。直到在死亡的邊緣時,她的家人方抬她前往瓦帕勒萊佛寺求老方丈。這位老方丈為她進行一種泰國古老的儀式,稱為“舍斗科”,表示從疾病到死亡然後重生的循環,後再由老方丈為她改名為囊萬彤。換句話說,囊蘋琵啦萊已去世了,囊萬彤是個新生命。

坤昌府邸

注:這種傳統的泰國古老儀式經常被誤解為一般的驅魔儀式,然而卻不然。這是一個複雜的儀式,欺騙死亡並改變一個人的命運的儀式,但是,是好是壞還得取決於個人儀式後的行為。如果不熟練的僧侶不得執行此法科,不然可能會產生可怕的後果,如同香港巨星兼歌后莫文蔚主演的恐怖電影“棺材”中的描述(儘管充滿誤解和誇張)。

儀式結束後,囊萬彤的發燒開始消退,身體也逐漸康復。在此期間,坤昌經常拜訪她並要求照顧她,但他的提議被囊萬彤拒絕了。然而,也不知道坤昌從何得知菩提樹儀式之事,他命令他的一個忠誠僕人每天在樹周圍散佈有毒草藥,直到該樹死亡。

不用多久時間,菩提樹便枯死了。囊萬彤被菩提樹的突然枯死給嚇昏了,她當真認為坤平將軍已戰死戰場。坤昌見一計得逞,便又使第二計。他直接找上囊萬彤的母親囊斯里帕蟬,並要求她把女兒改嫁他,或者讓她根據法律宣布為寡婦。

注:沒有菩提樹樹儀式的坤平將軍傳說版本反而說坤昌帶來了一甕的骨頭聲稱是坤平的遺骸,欺騙囊萬彤和囊斯里帕蟬。

瓦曼感佛寺于佛歷2486開光,常勝將軍坤平.

注:與許多當代製作的古裝電影不同,實際上在古代社會中,無論是在東方還是西方,女性都被視為法律下的動產。他們分別在婚前和婚後個別由父母和丈夫所擁有。在大城時代,女性的父母有權決定女兒的一切,包括生死。因此,在坤平將軍的“死亡”後,囊萬彤因为尚未养儿育女之故便再次被歸為母親的動產。在看到坤昌富裕並身為國王服務,囊斯里帕蟬便強迫女兒再嫁。

坤平將軍娶蔣通公主

坤平將軍和他的軍隊在前往蔣通國的途中是充滿血腥的,多次與敵人交戰都以性命搏殺出一條血淋淋的路,踩著敵人的屍體前進。然而,當他們抵達蔣通國時,他們卻沒獵殺蔣通士兵,也沒有騷擾村民。而蔣通國小王沙恩卡曼更是下令開啟城門,迎接坤平將軍和他的部隊。

小王沙恩卡曼以接待貴賓儀式接待坤平將軍和他的軍隊。小王沙恩卡曼也向坤平將軍解釋蔣通國並無倒向清邁國的意思,無奈在清邁大軍壓境之下不得不暫低頭。小王沙恩卡曼和他的妻子囊斯里亙穆旺感激坤平將軍對他們的困境表示諒解,並且沒有對他們或村民使用武力,因而便提出願意把美麗的愛女囊絡彤許配坤平。他們也希望能通過這門親事來表示對大城王國的忠誠且同時得到一名英俊勇猛的將軍女婿。

坤平將軍對嬌美的囊絡彤也非常喜愛,於是便欣然答應這門親事。他和囊絡彤便在蔣通國結成夫婦妻。因而坤平將軍在蔣通國呆了一段時間,一面是新婚,一面也好讓他的士兵療傷恢復原狀,然後方重新整頓部隊並興高采烈地凱旋回大城府。在他們回途上並未在再遇清邁大軍伏擊,一路倒是平安順利。

隨著坤平將軍帶著他美麗的新妻子囊絡彤回到素攀府,正室妻子囊蘋琵啦萊會有什麼反應呢?又如坤平得知自己妻子竟改嫁坤昌時該如何處理呢?

欲知詳情,請留意我們即將發表的文章“泰國傳奇之常勝將軍(第三集)”。

泰國傳奇之常勝將軍(一)

第一集

每年都有成千上萬來自世界各地的的遊客遊覽距離曼谷約一百多公里的素攀府古城,該古城擁有著豐富的歷史和文化,其歷史可以追溯到3,500 – 3,800年前,但它的重要性實際上是在大城王國(1650- 1767年)期間建立的。當時它不但是一個重要的邊境城鎮,更參與了許多具有歷史意義的戰爭。因此,遊覽泰國素攀府古城通常包括參觀紀念大城王國創始國王的烏通國家博物館,獻給擊敗緬甸人的納黎萱大帝國王的隆柴迪紀念碑,以及兩座建於大約500 – 600年前的古寺,瓦帕勒萊佛寺和瓦卡爾佛寺。這兩座古寺皆在素攀府歷史上具有重要淵源,許多泰國神話和傳說也與這兩座寺廟直接相關,尤其是本文將探討的常勝將軍傳說。

瓦卡爾佛寺常勝將軍坤平住宅

常勝將軍也是泰國最著名的魅力,無敵,運氣和財富之神,其根源也可以追溯到這個古老的城市。據說常勝將軍曾在瓦帕勒萊佛寺和瓦卡爾佛寺學習並掌握了內徑即神通的要領。此外,迄今關於常勝將軍坤平的傳說和詩歌更是學校廣泛傳授的最著名泰國文學課程之一。常勝將軍坤平的神聖物品,包括神像佛牌和護身符等更是廣泛備受追捧。幾乎每個神靈派寺廟都有鑄造常勝將軍坤平的佛牌和護身符,而最受歡迎的恰好也是來自位於素攀府的瓦曼感佛寺在佛歷2486至2492所鑄造的幾批佛牌。

本文目的

常勝將軍坤平“力能劈”,瓦耐南鴻佛寺,鑾波順治蘇赫以人緣和防身經咒特鑄經典佛牌。

在這篇文章中,我們試圖探索泰國最著名的傳奇和具有爭議的角色 – 常勝將軍坤平的故事- 他是迄今為止最受尊敬的魅力,無敵,運氣和財富之神。我們將客觀分析和評估所有資料,包括歷史文物和與坤平將軍相關的痕跡,並讓我們的讀者來做出自己的結論。因此,我們將這篇文章分為幾集,容我們做簡要探討神話與歷史性之間的本質,並對坤平將軍的故事進行敘述;我們也將試圖分析從收集的資料中得出的事實,並確定坤平將軍在神話和歷史之間的位置;最後我們將討論坤平將軍在現代泰國和全世界泰國佛教徒社區中所扮演的角色。

神話與傳說

神話和傳說是自遠古以來伴隨人類的最有趣的事物。這兩個主題反映了特定文化的特徵,價值觀和歷史。人們常說,神話和傳說是為了反映特定文化的道德和美德,從而塑造其觀點和生活方式。儘管自公元前250年以來一直是素萬那普地區內的上部座佛教社會,但泰國神話的拉瑪基恩基礎卻深深紮根於印度羅摩衍那神話中,唯有傳說中那些裝飾,武器,地形和環境的成分,皆被賦予了泰國風味。最常被引用的例子包括經典的拉瑪基恩和倥舞古典舞蹈,或分別在拉瑪一世和拉瑪二世監督下所創作的“面具歌舞劇”。

倥舞古典舞蹈

雖然據說拉瑪基恩和倥舞古典舞蹈為泰國神話和傳說扎下了基礎且提供了泰國神和神靈的來源,但那也不盡然,因為從泰國文學中同時也發現了許多與上述兩種來源無關的神話和傳說,尤其是與歷史密不可分的那些神話和傳說。考古學是人類觀點的重要來源,因為任何重要的發現都會改變人類的整個編年史,因此,有許多考古學家和歷史學家都很努力要證明或反駁某個特定的神話,例如耶穌基督的存在等等。

瓦三奔佛寺,欒普通以招財經咒特鑄坤平佛牌。

神話與傳說的重要性

神話和傳說都在世界各地的許多學校被教授,因為它們先於哲學,科學甚至宗教,因此,它們是反映文化的主要來源,並且神話和傳說都被用來傳授美德,道德和節制的價值觀等等。反過來,它們共同構成了研究特定文化文學的基礎。例如,為了學習和理解莎士比亞,人們可能需要對希臘神話有一定程度的理解。同樣,如果沒有對拉馬基恩的深入理解,人們根本無法理解泰國人的宗教政治意識形態和文化。

雖然大多數神話和傳說是融合許多不同作者的想像力和創造力在很長一段時間內產生的精品,所以其內容也可能因此不連貫,從然那些神話和傳說可能包含歷史性。歷史性有時被用作連接過去和現在或僅僅描描人物和歷史存在事件的現實紐帶。在神話中,歷史性的價值往往會增加某些神話和歷史的爭議,就像聖經或基督神話理論,當然還有本文的主角 – 常勝將軍坤平。

故事的開始

這個故事發生於拉瑪迪博迪二世俗稱順德帕潘瓦薩統治時期(1473年至1529年)的素攀府。在那古城誕生了故事中的拍驕(後來的坤平),斯里(後來 的坤昌)和囊蘋琵啦萊(後來的囊婉彤)。拍驕是皇軍指揮官坤凱彭和囊彤帕薩的兒子,長得英俊聰明。斯里的父親是坤斯里偉,母親 囊帖桐。斯里天生禿頭粗魯。囊蘋琵啦萊是富商潘松猶大和囊斯里帕蟬的千金,天生美麗動人。三人是童年玩伴好友。

那個時代正是大城王國與清邁和蘭昌國發生激烈戰爭的時期。根據華盛頓協議,蘭昌省於1946年被割讓給法屬印度支那為殖民地,以換取泰國加入聯合國的條件,今天蘭昌省已成為寮國的一部分。這個故事還提供了對泰國人尤其是素攀府和北碧府人民的傳統,習俗,文化,信仰和生活方式的豐富見解。

禍從天降指揮官殘遭斬首

有一天,順德帕潘瓦薩突然想要一群野生水牛,並命令坤凱彭建立一個牧場。坤凱彭是一位精通內經法術和戰略的戰士,但卻缺乏放牧野生水牛的技能。因此,當他試圖將那些野生水牛趕入牧場時,它們變得害怕並且到處亂闖。坤凱彭感到沮喪和憤怒,然後他使用長矛刺殺了許多水牛,而剩下的水牛都逃到了森林裡去。順德帕潘瓦薩非常生氣,並下令把坤凱彭和家人一併處決。在收到丈夫被處決的消息後,囊彤帕薩迅速帶著兒子拍驕逃亡到北碧府。

現今在素攀府,邦帕瑪區,有一座名為瓦坤凱的寺廟,供奉的主神就是坤平將軍的父親,皇軍指揮官坤凱彭。

拍驕瓦松雅佛寺當沙彌

在北碧府,囊 彤帕萨一手把拍驕撫養长大,而拍驕對父親更是念念不忘。 他努力練習父親教他的武藝和神靈學,盼望長大後像父親一樣做一名大將。囊彤帕薩見兒子心意如此,便前往瓦松雅佛寺當乞求當時神靈派長老鑾普文收拍驕為徒。於是拍驕便在瓦松雅佛寺梯度為沙彌隨著鑾普文學藝。

於佛歷2525年,瓦松雅佛寺改稱瓦雅融蘘佛寺。神靈派長老鑾普文把畢生所學全全傳授拍驕並在他身上塑造了一個堅實的法術基礎。至今瓦雅融蘘佛寺中仍然保存著由瓦松雅佛寺遺留下來的一座記載著當年拍驕拜師學藝進展過程記錄的石碑。

在拍驕15歲那年,也是他在瓦松雅佛寺滿師後,被老鑾普文派往素攀府的瓦帕勒萊佛寺和瓦卡爾佛寺拜在友人門下再行進修。

瓦卡爾佛寺巨型大黃蜂

每年都有成千上萬的人參觀瓦卡爾佛寺,大多數人都對一棵在寺廟內的10米週寬大羅望子樹感到好奇,尤其是那隻坐落在羅望子樹下的巨大的大黃蜂雕塑。常常都可以看到有人向大黃蜂奉獻供品和做祈禱,但具諷刺的是,沒有多少人知道巨型大黃蜂和羅望子樹的來源和意義。

據說,當年坤平將軍從瓦卡爾佛寺主持那學會了把樹葉變成黃蜂攻擊敵人的法術,在被考驗時便是用現在這顆羅望子樹的葉子化成黃蜂,所以,後來寺廟才在顆羅望子樹下建造巨型大黃蜂的雕塑。因此,向大黃蜂奉獻和祈禱象徵著尋求幫助來制服和/或擊敗敵人。

童年朋友團聚:愛,嫉妒和情節展開

悲劇不只是降落在拍驕一家人身上而已。在他的父親坤凱彭被處決後不久,斯里的家也被強盜搶劫,斯里的父親坤斯里偉才也在抗盜時被殺害。幾乎在同一時間,囊蘋琵啦萊的父親潘松猶大在從外經商返回家後也死於致命的發燒。三個童年時代的朋友幾乎在同一時期都變成沒有父親。

當拍驕重回到素攀府時,三個童年時代的朋友都已經是年輕人了。囊蘋琵啦萊已長大成為一位美麗動人的少女,而斯里則是禿頭且肥胖,但已進入皇室服務並與獲得“坤昌”封號。儘管他家被搶劫過,但坤昌到底家底深厚,任然能夠積累巨額財富並保留一定的影響力。然而,他性格卻變得自私和麻木不仁。

坤昌從小就一直喜歡囊蘋琵啦萊,隨著他們的成長,那種喜愛已經漸漸變成了迷戀。隨著英俊瀟灑和有魅力的拍驕的歸來,三個童年時代的朋友能否保持那種天真和真摯的友誼或……

欲知詳情,請留意我們即將發表的文章“泰國傳奇之常勝將軍(第二集)”。

Thai Myth: The Legend of Undefeatable Warlord-2

Chapter 2

Mythology and Legends: A Dialectical Approach

In Chapter 1 of this article we provided a brief discussion about the origin and importance of mythology and legends and also issues pertaining historicity arising from some of these myths. Many writers tend to pit myths and history at two antithetically extreme ends. Many historians also, for whatever reasons, assumed an innate obligation to remove all traces of myths from history when, ironically, there are as many historical falsities as there are historical values in myths.

Nang Phim Philalai

Let us take the Xia Dynasty (2200 – 1760 BC) for example. Prior to the discovery of radiocarbon dating, the Xia Dynasty was dismissed as a Chinese fairy tale which now turned out to be a historical fact. On the contrary, it is not difficult to find many agenda-laden godly investitures that gradually turned a historical figure into some supernatural beings which, in their book “Myths: A New Symposium”, Schrempp and Hansen described it as borrowing the tropes of myths to elevate the authority and verisimilitude of the subject matter. It is also not difficult to understand the latter proposition given the fact that even history per se does not contain absolute truth but, at most, probable truth. Absolute truth must result in absolute certainty that is free from subjective interpretation and must unswervingly endure the test of time, for example, death. It makes no difference whether you are rich or poor, pretty or ugly, educated or illiterate, your ultimate destiny is death, an end-result that is absolutely certain and unchangeable.

Therefore, even with regards to critical history, other than death, no one will ever know the truth but for personal experiences. In an article published in the Journal of History and Theory, Heehs concluded that it may not be possible to categorically separate history and myths “because the two interpenetrate”. As Theravada Buddhists, we neither propagate superstition nor atheism but the middle-path reflected in Lord Buddha’s teaching. We adhere to the fundamental tenets of Theravada Buddhism, especially that of intelligence which underlies our dialectical approach that we invoked to allow our readers to draw their own conclusion based on competing information.

The Story Continues

Khun Phaen Koo 2492 of Wat Bankrang believed to possess a double spiritual effects.

Phlai Kaeo returned to Suphanburi as a novice of Wat Pa Lelai. His handsome appearance has won the hearts of many young girls who were seen waiting to see him during his morning ritual of “tak but” or alms round. They will fill his alms bowl with so much food. Similarly, Nang Phim Philalai also did the same.

One day, at the Wat Pa Lelai Temple, there was a sermon sponsored by Nang Phim Philalai which Phlai Kaeo was instructed by the abbot to deliver. That was when the three childhood friends met together again. Strongly attracted to the young handsome novice and unable to restrain her affection, Nang Phim Philalai removed her shoulder cloth (sabai) and offered it to the novice. Khun Chang who was all along attracted to Nang Phim Philalai quickly removed his headdress (Pkama) and placed it on top of her shoulder cloth and openly asked the novice to give them the blessing that the two will come together as a couple. Nang Phim Philalai was deeply offended by Khun Chang’s unsolicited advancement.

Khun Chang felt the threat of Phlai Kaeo’s presence and he also sensed Nang Phim Philalai’s affection towards the latter. Therefore, Khun Chang pestered his mother Nang Thepthong to go forth and ask Nang Sri Prachan for him to marry Nang Phim Philalai. Khun Chang even brought along with him the “sin sot” or dowry which was usually negotiated after a woman’s parents had agreed to the marriage proposal. However, Nang Phim Philalai vehemently objected that proposal.

The holy image of Khun Phaen in Wat Khae.

Subsequently, Phlai Kaeo disrobed as a novice and married Nang Phim Philalai. The couple were drown in love and could not bear to be separated from each another. Despite Nang Phim Philalai’s marriage to Phlai Kaeo, Khun Chang has not given up on her and has been thinking about how to win her over. Coincidentally, at this time, Somdej Phra Panwasa received news that Mueang Chiang Thong, a small tributary of Ayutthaya Kingdom, generally believed to be in current north-eastern part of Chiang Rai province or the current Chiang Khong town, has defected and switched allegiance to Chiang Mai instead. Infuriated, Somdej Phra Panwasa contemplated sending an army to punish Mueang Chiang Thong.

Where exactly was Muaeng Chiang Thong?

A number of Thai scholars and historians have disputed the location of Mueang Chiang Thong as being in Chiang Rai and argued that it should instead be in present day’s Doi Chom Thong district in southern Chiang Mai. In fact, this argument sounded more logical when we were to look into the number of wars Khun Phaen has fought with Chiang Mai. If Mueang Chiang Thong was located in Chiang Rai then Khun Phaen could have avoided the main forces of the Chiang Mai army by marching his troop from Suphanburi through Nakhon Sawan, Mueang Kamphaengphet, Mueang Rahaeng, Mueang Thoen to Phayao and entering Chiang Rai.

If Mueang Chiang Thong was located in Chiang Rai

However, it was said that Khuan Phaen fought numerous wars with Chiang Mai but without directly attacking Chiang Mai. This again aligns with historical records because albeit in constant war with Chiang Mai, the Ayutthaya Kingdom has never conquered Chiang Mai (1259 – 1892). Chiang Mai only became part of Siam (now the Kingdom of Thailand) in 1893. Therefore, if Muaeng Chiang Thong was indeed in current Doi Chom Thong district in Chiang Mai, then Khun Phaen’s army constant encounter with the Chiang Mai army on his way to Mueang Chiang Thong will be justified because from Mueang Thoen he had to cut through Lamphun and march his troop down the Ping River to reach Doi Chom Thong district in the southern part of Chiang Mai.

If Mueang Chiang Thong was located in Doi Chom Thong district

However, it is not the endeavour of this article to delve into the historical location of Muaeng Chiang Thong but suffice to provide a skeletal background for our readers’ imagination.

Khun Chang Hatched His First Plot

When Somdej Phra Panwasa was briefed about Mueang Chiang Thong’s defection and the strength of Chiang Mai’s army, he deeply regretted having executed Khun Kraipon and procrastinated as to who he should send to lead his army against the enemy. Immediately, Khun Chang seized the opportunity and told Somdej Phra Panwasa about Khun Kraipon’s son, Phlai Kaeo. Khun Chang depicted exaggerated stories about Phlai Kaew’s invulnerability in the hope that Phlai Kaeo will be summoned to service which will then separate him from Nang Phim Philalai and preferably get killed in war. Indeed, Somdej Phra Panwasa summoned Phlai Kaeo to the service and appointed him as Commander of the Royal Army to punish Mueang Chiang Thong.

A Dream Fulfilled

It was Phlai Kaeo’s dream to be an army commander like his father Khun Kraipon. Therefore, despite being newly-wed, he took his mother Nang Thongprasri and his wife Nang Phim Philalai and set out to Ayutthaya where Somdej Phra Panwasa officially appointed him the Commander of the Royal Army, presented him with a sword and armour. He was also raised to the title Khun Phaen.

A divine tree at Wat Khae.

A Vow and the Bodhi Tree Ritual

As Khun Phaen began raising his army and preparing to set out for war, Nang Phim Philalai became depressed and worried. One morning, Khun Phaen prepared offerings to a Bodhi tree outside their house and summoned the angels of forest and asked that if he should die in war, let that Bodhi tree die too but otherwise the Bodhi tree shall grow strong. He then turned and told his wife Nang Phim Philalai that the Bodhi tree will let her know about his life and death and, thus, she has nothing more to worry about.

A Long Journey of War

Khun Phaen marched his army through Nakhon Sawan, Mueang Kamphaengphet, Mueang Rahaeng (presently the Tak district in western Thailand) and Mueang Thoen (currently Lampang province) to Mueang Chiang Thong. Many battles were fought between Khun Phaen’s army and the Chiang Mai’s troops as he pushed his way towards Muaeng Chiang Thong.

It was said that Khun Phaen has not lost a single battle which won him the title of Undefeatable Warlord. Many stories have infused the battles with alchemy and wizardry but we are not going to repeat them here but suffice to mentioned herein that, amongst other things, it was said that Khun Phaen was able to win every battle because of an ancient Thai “Khong Kraphan” sorcery and his ability to summon warrior spirits to help boost fearlessness among his soldiers. That was also why mountains of enemy’s bodies paved his path to Muaeng Chiang Thong.

Khun Chang’s Second Plot

There are at least two different versions of story as to what happened whilst Khun Phaen was away from home. Since we had introduced the Bodhi tree ritual above, we shall continue with the Bodhi tree version here. However, to satisfy our readers’ curiosity, we will also provide a brief account of the other version later on.

Ever since Khun Phaen went to war, Nang Phim Philaiai missed her husband so much that she gradually became seriously ill with high fever. Medicine and herbs did not do her any good. On the verge of death, her family brought her to consult the abbot of Wat Pa Lelai. The old abbot performed an ancient Thai ritual known as “sedeokhrok” signifying a cycle from sickness to death and then rebirth whereby she was given a new name Nang Wanthong by the abbot. In other words, Nang Phim Philalai has died and Nang Wanthong was born.

A signage showing the House of Khun Chang.

Note: This traditional Thai ritual is not an exorcism ritual as it is frequently misunderstood. It is a complicated ritual that cheats death and changes an individual’s destiny which may be for the better or worse depending on the individual’s subsequent behaviour and acts after the ritual as well as the expertise of the master who performed the ritual. It could have dire consequences as depicted (albeit erroneously) in the horror movie “The Coffin”, starring Hong Kong movie star cum singer Karen Mok, if it is not performed properly by versed monks.

Her fever began to subside after the ritual and Nang Wanthong gradually recovered. During that period, Khun Chang has visited her frequently and asked to take care of her. His offer was rejected by Nang Wanthong. However, Khun Chang somehow came to know about the Bodhi tree ritual and he instructed one of his loyal servant to scatter poisonous herbs around the tree daily until the tree dies.

It did not take too long for Khun Chang to kill the Bodhi tree and Nang Wanthong was overwhelmed by the sudden death of the Bodhi tree which she related it to the death of Khun Phaen. Khun Chang then went to see Nang Wanthong’s mother, Nang Sri Prachan, and asked her to make her daughter available to him or risk her being declared a widow under the law.

The version of the Legend of Khun Phaen that does not contain the Bodhi tree ritual instead stated that Khun Chang brought an urn of bones and tricked Nang Wanthong and Nang Sri Prachan into believing that Khun Phaen was dead.

Khun Phaen Koo 2486 of Wat Bankrang believed to possess the power of charisma, success and invulbnerability.

It has to be noted that, unlike depicted in many contemporary made movies, in ancient societies, whether in Asia or Europe, women were considered chattels under the law. They are owned by their parents and husbands before and after marriage respectively. During the Ayutthaya era, a woman’s parents have full right to decide what they wanted to do with their daughter. Therefore, upon the “death” of Khun Phaen, Nang Wanthong was reverted as chattel of her mother whereby, seeing Khun Chang was rich and serving the King, Nang Sri Prachan forced Nang Wanthong to marry Khun Chang.

Khun Phaen Married Princess of Chiang Thaong

Khun Phaen and his troops stepped over piles of enemy’s bodies on their way to Muaeng Chiang Thong. However, when they reached Muaeng Chiang Thong they somehow refrained from all killing. The army of Muaeng Chiang Thong did not put up a fight instead prince Saen Khamman ordered the opening of city gate and ushered in Khun Phaen and his troops.

Khun Phaen was received with honour by the prince of Muaeng Chiang Thong and he also came to know that it was not the intention of Muaeng Chiang Thong to switch allegiance to Chiang Mai but for Chiang Mai’s army threatening to invade Mueang Chiang Thong. The prince and his wife Nang Sri Ngenmuang were grateful that Khun Phaen had shown understanding for their predicament and had not used force against them or the villagers. They presented to him their beautiful daughter Nang Lao Thong as an assurance of their allegiance to the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

Khun Phaen and Nang Lao Thong got married in Mueang Chiang Thong. He stayed there for a short period to allow his soldiers to recuperate before he reorganised his troops and marched his way jubilantly back to Ayutthaya. On his return journey , Khun Phaen and his troops did not meet any resistance or ambush from the Chiang Mai forces.

What drama will unfold with Khun Phaen bringing his beautiful new wife Nang Lao Thong back to Suphanburi and what will be Khun Phaen’s reaction to find his wife Nang Phim Philalai married to Khun Chang?

To read more, please keep a look out for our upcoming article “Thai Myth: The Legend of Undefeatable Warlord Chapter 3”.

Thai Myth: The Legend of Undefeatable Warlord – 1

Chapter 1

Every year thousands and thousands of tourists from all over the world visit the ancient city of Suphanburi, Thailand, which is approximately slightly more than a hundred kilometres away from Bangkok. The province has a rich history dating as far as 3,500-3,800 years back but its prominence was actually established during the Ayutthaya kingdom (1650-1767) as an important border town engaged in many historically significant battles. Therefore a Thailand tour to the ancient city of Suphanburi will usually include visits to the U-Thong National Museum named after the founding king of the Ayutthaya kingdom, Don Chedi Monument dedicated to King Naresuan who defeated the Burmese, and iconic temples such as Wat Pa Lelai and Wat Kae that were both built some 500-600 years ago and played vital roles in the history of Suphanburi. Many Thai mythology and legends are also directly associated with these two temples and among the many is the Legend of the Undefeatable Warlord.

“Khum Khun Phaen” in Wat Kae

The Undefeatable Warlord is also one of Thailand’s most prominent God of Charm, Luck, Wealth, and invulnerability whose root is also traced to this ancient city. He was said to have studied and mastered the art of inner-path in both Wat Pa Lelai and Wat Kae. Furthermore, legends and poems pertaining to the Undefeatable Warlord Khun Phaen are among the most celebrated Thai literature which are hitherto widely taught in schools. Sacred objects, including statues and amulets of Khun Phaen are also highly sought after. Almost every amulet producing temple would inevitable produce Khun Phaen amulets and the most popular ones happened to originate from Wat Ban Krang which is also located in Suphanburi province.

Purpose of this Article

Koon Pean Leknampit, Wat Noinanghong, Luang Phor Somjit is consecrated with the chant of charm and invulnerability

In this article, we seek to explore the story of Thailand’s most prominent legendary and controversial character – Khun Phaen the Undefeated Warlord – who is hitherto most revered as the God of Charm, Luck, Wealth, and Invulnerability. We endeavour to assess and evaluate all materials including historical artefacts and traces pertinent to Khun Phaen and allow our readers to draw their own conclusion. Therefore, we will breakdown this article into several chapters whereby we will briefly explore the essence between myths and historicity and provide a narration of the story of Khun Phaen; we will attempt to analyse the facts derived from information collected and determine the position of Khun Phaen between mythology and history; and we will discuss what role Khun Phaen plays in contemporary Thailand and within Thai Buddhists community around the world.

Mythology and Legends

Mythology and legends are the most intriguing things that had accompanied mankind since time immemorial. These two subjects mirror the characteristics, values, and history of specific cultures. Myths and legends are often said to be created to reflect what a particular culture deems to be moral and ethical and thereby shaping its outlook and its way of life. Despite being a Theravada Buddhist society within the Suvarnabhumi region since 250 BC, the Ramakien which is deeply rooted in Hindu Ramayana myths underlies Thai mythology and legends saved those attires, weapons, topography, and constituents of settings are transposed and given a Thai flavour. The most often cited examples include those classic Ramakien and Khon dances also known as the “Masked Pantomime” created under the supervision of Rama I and Rama II respectively.

Thai Royal Khon Performance(โขนพระราชทาน)

Although the Ramakien and Khon dances are said to provide Thai legends with foundational myth whereby numerous Thai Gods and Deities derived their origin, they are nevertheless not all comprising. There is simultaneously many other mythology and legends found in Thai literature that have no connection to the above two sources especially those that are inextricably intertwined with local history. Archaeology is an important source for human outlook because any profound findings will change mankind’s entire chronicle and, therefore, it is not surprising there are many archaeologists and historians out there set to prove or disprove a particular myth such as the existence of Jesus Christ so on and so forth.

Koon Pean, Wat Sumpearn, Luang Pu Thong specially consecrated for vringing about wealth

Importance of Mythology and Legends

Nonetheless, mythology and legends are taught in many schools throughout the world as they preceded philosophy, science, and even religions, thus, they are primary sources reflecting cultures and are used to impart the values, virtues, morality, and temperance amongst many other things which in turn collectively forms the foundation for studying literature of a particular culture. For example, in order to study and understand Shakespeare, one may need a certain level of understanding of Greek mythology. Similarly, without a firm understanding of Ramakien, it is difficult for one to understand the religiopolitical ideology and culture of the Thais.

Whilst most myths are products of imagination and creativity developed by numerous authors throughout the ages and which contents may hence be incoherent, however, there are some that may contain historicity. Historicity is sometimes used as a nexus to connect past and present or simply describing the actuality of characters and events of historical existence. It is also this value of historicity within myths that oftentimes add controversies to certain myths and history just as in the case with the Bible, the Christ myth theory, and of course, the main character of this article – the Undefeatable Warlord Khun Phaen.

The Story Begins

The story was set out during the reign of King Ramathibodi II also known as Somdej Phra Panwasa (1473-1529) in the province of Suphan (now Suphanburi) where all the three main characters, Phlai Kaeo (later Khun Phaen), Sri (later Khun Chang), and Phim Philalai (later Nang Wanthong) were born. Phlai Kaeo was the son of Commander Khun Kraipon and Nang Thongprasri. He was handsome and clever. Sri’s father was Khun Srivichai and his mother Nang Thepthong. He was born bald and albeit coming from a rich family, Sri was crass. Nang Phim Philalai was the beautiful daughter of wealthy merchant Pansorn Yotha and Nang Sri Prachan. The trio were childhood friends.

It was a period where the Ayutthaya Kingdom was in intense war with Chiang Mai and Lan Chang. The province of Lan Chang was ceded to French Indochina in 1946 under the Washington Accord in exchange for Thailand’s admission to the United Nations and today it forms part of Laos. The story also provided a rich insight into traditions, customs, culture, beliefs, and the way of life of Thais in general and the people of Suphanburi and Kanchanaburi (then Kanburi).

Khun Kraipon Executed

One day, Somdej Phra Panwasa suddenly wanted a herd of wild buffaloes and ordered Khun Kraipon to set up a ranch. Khun Kraipon was a warrior who was versed in the art of inner-path and war but, however, lacked the skill in herding wild buffaloes. Therefore, when he tried to herd those wild buffaloes into the ranch, they became frightened and ran amok. Khun Kraipon became frustrated and angered whereby he then used spears to thrust and killed many of those buffaloes whilst the remaining surviving buffaloes fled into the forest. Somdej Phra Panwasa became very angry and ordered Khun Kraipon and family to be executed. Upon receiving the news of her husband’s execution, Nang Thongprasri quickly took Phlai Kaeo and went into hiding in Kanburi.

There is a temple called Wat Khun Krai at Tambon Bang Pla Ma, Amphoe Bang Pla Ma, Changwat Suphanburi, built to honour Khun Phaen’s father.

Phlai Kaeo Ordained in Wat Som Yai

In Kanburi, Nang Thongprasri single-handedly brought up Phlai Kaeo who could not forget his father. He practised the skills his father taught him with the ambition of becoming a great army commander like his father. Phlai Kaeo was ordained in Wat Som Yai in Kanburi province. The temple was renamed Wat Yai Dong Rang in Buddhist Year 2525. The abbot of Wat Som Yai, Luang Pu Boon, imparted to him the secrets of the inner-path and moulded in him a strong foundation in the arts of sorcery. An ancient monument indicating Phlai Kaeo’s progress is still being preserved in the temple today.

After graduating from Wat Som Yai at the age of 15, Phlai Kaew was sent to further his learning and practice at Wat Pa Lelai Woravihan in Supanburi province and later to Wat Khae, also in Supanburi province.

Giant hornet in Wat Kae

Tens of thousands people have visited Wat Khae and most are amused by a large tamarind tree, measuring approximately 10 meters around the base inside the temple. A huge hornet sculpture sits under the tamarind tree. Devotees can be seen doing prayers and making offerings but, ironically, not many people know the essence of the giant hornet and the tamarind tree.

Actually, Khun Phaen has used the leaves of that Tamarind tree and turned them into hornets capable of attacking enemies which inspired the temple to build the sculpture of a giant hornet under the tree. Therefore, making prayers and offerings to the hornet symbolise a plea for help to subdue and/or defeat one’s enemy.

Childhood Friends Reunited: Love, Jealousy, and Plots Unfolded

Tragedy did not just befall Phlai Kaeo’s family. Shortly after the execution of his father Khun Kraipon, Sri’s family was robbed by bandits and Sri’s father Khun Srivichai was also killed. Almost during the same time, Nang Phim Philalai’s father Pansorn Yotha too died from a deadly fever after returning from foreign cities. The three childhood friends all became fatherless at almost the same period of time.

By the time Phlai Kaeo returned to Suphanburi, the trio were already all young adults. Nang Phim Philalai has grown up to be a beautiful young lady whilst Sri was bald and fat but has entered the royal service and conferred with the title Khun Chang. Despite the fact that his family was robbed, Khun Chang was able to amass great wealth and became a rich and influential person. However, he has also become selfish and insensitive.

Khun Chang has since childhood always liked Nang Phim Philalai and that affection has turned into a crush for the grown up beauty. With the return of Phlai Kaeo who has also grown up to be handsome and attractive, could the three childhood friends maintain that innocence and sincere friendship or…

To read more, please keep a look out for our upcoming article “Thai Myth: The Legend of Undefeatable Warlord Chapter 2”.

Yin Tong

Yin Tong 2520 Wat Chana Songkhram, Lomkayjit.

Most people who frequently visited Thailand would have the chances to come across amulets of a man and a woman hugging together. These figurines are usually presented in the form of nudity and are made of metal but there are those rare ones carved from wood as well. These amulets are called “YinTong” or “YinKu,” phrases originating from the language of Lanna or northern Thais albeit some textbooks suggested that it originated from Ngew or Thai Yai.

A Misrepresentation: Deliberate or Otherwise

Yee Per 2542, Ajahn Nontiyak, Wat Plok

Owing to the nakedness of those figurines many people inevitably associated them with sexuality. Indeed many amulet dealers would either deliberately or ignorantly misrepresent them as so to arouse curiosity and interest that cater to market demand. For those who are familiar with Thai myths, legends, and folklores it is not difficult to detect the lewdness and sexuality presented as selling points by these agents are actually partial and mixed-up representations of “Yee Per” and “Mae Per” which are total different things from “Yin Tong.” Yee Per comprises a pair of male and female naked figurines with their sexual organs exposed and amplified and they are used by practitioners for various rituals whilst Mae Per is a sole female figurine usually used as a complimentary subject in charismatic sacred objects. We will not be delving into details of Yee Per and Mae Per in this article but suffice to state briefly the marked and intrinsic differences between the three.

The Simple Truth

This is a limited edition of Yin Tong statue carved from wood made and consecrated by Luang Phor Somjit in 2518.

Every religion has folklore about the origin of mankind and Yin Tong is the Thai version. Contrary to sexuality and lasciviousness, nudity, in this instance, represents truthfulness, openness, and nothing to hide. It also represents the relationship between mankind and the nature and, together with the embracing couple, it signifies love and harmony. Many temples and guru monks have made and consecrated amulets of Yin Tong but the most renowned hitherto is still Luang Phor Somjit Sukkho of Wat Noi Nanghong. To correct the misrepresentation of sexuality and lewdness, Yin Tong made and consecrated by Luang Phor Somjit is dressed up in traditional Thai costumes.

This is a special edition of Yin Tong amulet made and consecrated by Luang Phor Somjit in 2518 using seven element metals.

Luang Phor Somjit made and consecrated Yin Tong statues and amulets according to the ancient Lanna scriptures with incantations of the power of love, harmony, great popularity, fortune, wealth and prosperity. Whilst Yin Tong originating from other temples share the same power to bring about love and harmony to people within a household, those made and consecrated by Luang Phor Somjit, through a special incantation, extend to all areas of activities beyond home. By virtue of being the master of Thai Phaedthi (Bagua), His Venerable has added both the eight directional and Yin/Yang charms into his creations. Therefore, Yin Tong made and consecrated by Luang Phor Somjit has the power to balance the two contrasting energies and bring about reconciliation and harmony between the two sexes as well as between the same sexes.

This is the last edition of Yin Tong amulet made and consecrated by Luang Phor Somjit in 2530 using bronze and is gold plated with 3 microns of gold.

His Venerable once said: “When there is harmony, there will be peace and happiness. It is with a balance of energies that people prosper.” When Yin Tong is worshiped in the house it brings about harmony and love between husband and wife as well as among other members of the household; if it is worshiped in places of trade and offices it brings about fortune and prosperity to businesses. On the other hand, wearing a Yin Tong amulet from Luang Phor Somjit brings Yin Tong to wherever one travels, bringing the positive energies aforementioned with you.

The Correct Mindset

Effectiveness of Thai sacred objects originates from the faith of the believer in the specific sacred object. A channel of connection must be established and this requires a correct mindset. If you are wearing Yin Tong with a mindset full of bawdiness sold to you by some amulet dealers then you will certainly not be able to experience and enjoy the positive energies of love, harmony, prosperity and et cetera associated with Yin Tong. The reason is simple and it is because you are in the wrong channel. You will not get to watch the Last Blood on Pornhub, switch to Netflix!