A study of beliefs about warding off bad luck in Wat Sisa Thong.

Abstract

The research entitled “A Study of Beliefs Regarding to Misfortune Removal Rite at Wat Srisathong Temple” aims to study three objectives as follows: 1) To study the beliefs, history, and characteristics of beliefs regarding Mmsfortune removal rite at Wat Srisathong temple. 2) To examine the forms and expressions of misfortune removal beliefs among the people at Wat Srisathong, and 3) To explore the process by which these beliefs have become central and normative within the community around Wat Srisathong. This qualitative research is based on in-depth interviews with 10 key informants, whose responses were analyzed and presented descriptively.

The Research Findings showed that

1) Historical development of beliefs regarding.  The historical development can be categorized into, removal rite at Wat Srisathong is rooted in the concept of mysterious and supernatural forces that can positively transform an individual's life. This transformation is believed to bring about fortune and change misfortune into good fortune, influenced by deities, spirits, and natural phenomena such as thunderstorms. Astrological characteristics and belief in the orbit and movement of the Navagraha which influence the shifting of zodiac signs and celestial bodies.

2) The forms and methods of misfortune removal, such as offering Sangha Dana and using Pangsukula cloth as a symbolic gesture to extend one's lifespan. Daily misfortune-warding rituals include worshiping the Buddha image associated with one’s day of birth and. planets and and traditional   This practice provides comfort and a psychological refuge for the community.

3) The process of establishing the belief in warding off misfortune asa community standard at becoming a central hub for: 1) Faith in sacred objects. 2) Buddhist tourism and the appreciation of stucco art. 3) Community belief in the sacred power of Rahu, the deity of fortune. 4) Economic growth within the community.