Astrological Beliefs of Lanna Buddhists

Abstract

This academic article aims to study the beliefs in astrology of Lanna Buddhists. It was found that Lanna people believe in astrology because they were influenced by Brahmanism and Buddhism. This resulted in rituals that were different from general Buddhism, such as the ceremony to extend life and avert bad luck, and the ceremony to remove bad luck (Khut). Monks performed the ceremony or acted as astrologers. Astrology in Lanna society has been continuously used, especially in terms of auspicious times and Brahma scriptures, resulting in the tradition of listening to Dhamma according to the year of birth, naming according to the day of birth, and worshiping ghosts. The rituals were integrated and adapted perfectly. In addition, astrology has both positive effects, such as creating peace of mind, promoting faith in Buddhism, belief in karma and the results of actions, and living with the Triple Gem as a mental refuge, with morality as a framework to control actions, etc. As for the negative effects, it causes carelessness and superstition, etc.