Monday 29 October 2007

The Four Spirit - 四灵 (pt 2)

Green Dragon, White Tiger, Red Phoenix, and Black Tortoise are symbols for the directions, East, West, South, and North respectively; and for positive qualities such as loyalty, strength, generosity, and courage.
The Green Dragon of the East Signifies protection for the home dweller. In Chinese mythology the Dragon is well known and much respected as an emblem for strength, goodness, courage and endurance. The dragon is the protector of the heavens. The White Tiger of the West symbolizes strength. The dragon and the tiger coexist and are inseparable. It is perceived by the Chinese that the Tiger is one of the best symbols of protection against evil intentions from strangers. The Red Phoenix of the South is often depicted as the mate of the Celestial dragon and used in Feng Shui to activate the luck of opportunity. The Black Turtle of the North symbolizes the direction north and winter in Feng Shui. The Turtle is the emblem of longevity, strength and endurance. In Feng Shui the Black Turtle symbolizes a series of hill behind the property.
四神也叫作四象、四灵,即青龙、白虎、朱雀和玄武。青龙白虎掌四方,朱雀玄武顺阴阳。四灵圣兽苍龙、白虎、朱雀、玄武天之四灵虽然欧美奇幻中很少出现,但中国神话传说中它们却以尊贵无比四圣兽身份出现,是古代人民所喜爱吉祥物。四灵导源于远古神话,,起初称为"四象",指水火木金分布四方之象。 《易·系辞上》说:"两仪主四象." 两仪即阴阳或天地。上古表示天空东南西北四大区星象用东龙、南鸟、西虎、北龟蛇(武)四组动物。这四组动物也是中国古代神话中四方之神灵。春秋战国时期由于五行学说盛行,所以四象也被配色成为青龙、白虎、朱雀和玄武。两汉时期四象演化成为道教所信奉神灵故而四象也随即被称为四灵。

The Four Animal Spirit - 四灵

This picture caught my eyes and I fell in love with it so much that I wanted to share with the readers. The picture shows The Four Animal Spirit Known as:
  1. Green Dragon of the East - 青龙
  2. White Tiger of the West - 白虎
  3. Red Bird of the South - 朱雀
  4. Dark Warrior ( Black Turtle) of the North - 玄武

Will share the story in my next blog.


Saturday 27 October 2007

Soumkhor

This is a beautiful image of the Buddha from Thailand. This particular style is called "Soumkhor", and it comes from the Khamphaeng Phet area in north Thailand. It is one of the most popular amulets in Thailand. It is believed to bring peace and prosperity to the wearer. This particular image shows the Buddha seated in a meditation position, meditating in the rain under the protection of the Naga, a great 7-headed snake. The story is that the Naga desired to be ordained into the monkhood. The rules forbid it; but the Buddha gave the snake instruction in the 5 Buddhist precepts so that if he followed them, he could be reborn as human in his next life and enter the monkhood. The Naga used his body to form a meditation platform for the Buddha, using his great 7-headed body to form a canopy to shelter Buddha from the rain. The Soumkhor Buddha images are so respected in Thailand that the government recently released a series of postage stamps honoring 5 different Buddha amulets - one of which is Soumkhor.

Friday 26 October 2007

Name of 28 buddhas of the History

The 28 Buddhas are:



  1. TanHangKorn Buddha

  2. MeDhangKorn Buddha

  3. SaRaNangKorn Buddha

  4. DheePangKorn Buddha

  5. GonDhanYo Buddha

  6. MangKalo Buddha

  7. SuMaNo Buddha

  8. ReWaTo Buddha

  9. SoPheeTo Buddha

  10. AnoMaDhassi Buddha

  11. PaTumMo Buddha

  12. NaRaDho Buddha

  13. PaTuMutTaRo Buddha

  14. SuMeDho Buddha

  15. SuChaTo Buddha

  16. PiYaDhassi Buddha

  17. AtDhaDhasSi Buddha

  18. DhammaDhassi Buddha

  19. SitDhatDho Buddha

  20. Tisso Buddha

  21. Pusso Buddha

  22. WiPassi Buddha

  23. SiKhi Buddha

  24. WesSaPhu Buddha

  25. GoNaKaMaNo Buddha

  26. GaKuSanDho Buddha

  27. GasSaPo Buddha

  28. SakKaya KoTaMa Buddha or Phra Sri Sakkaya Muni, Kotama, Buddha. Saranamkara


The Temple with 28 Images in Subduing Mara Attitude

Venue : Wat Apsonsawan Warawihan, Phasi Charoen District Locally called Wat Mu. The temple was built by a Chinese merchant called U. Locals thus called it Wat Chin U, and later shifted to Wat Mu.
Rama III had it entirely renovated and renamed it Wat Apsonsawan.The congregation hall of this temple is unique for it has 28 images on the same base, and all are cast in the Subduing Mara attitude of the same size, 1 foot by 1 and 2 inches. They are cleverly placed in tiers. Each is inscribed with its name at the base front. The 28 Buddha images represent the 28 lives of the Buddha, a traditional Buddhist practice in the similar fashion as the building of the 28 pagodas around the main hall in Wat Suthat Thepwararam in Bangkok.

Address: 174 Thoet Thai Road Pakkhbng Sub-0istrid Phasichareon District Bangkok 10160Opening Hours: Temple:Daily 5 am-10 pm

A Diamond-Studded Image and Museum of Renowned Monks




Wat Krathum Sueapla was built in 1772.

Artifacts at the temple include the traditional Thai meeting pavilion with the gable in angelic motifs and a century-old wooden bell.


The new meeting pavilion houses Luangpho Phet, a replica of Phra Phuttha Chinnarat in Sukhothai style, whose wrap is studded with thousands of Russian diamonds. Another pavilion houses a collection of wax-figures of more than 10 renowned monks such as Luangpu Thuat, Somdet Phra Phutthachan (To Phromrangsi), Luangpu Suk, and Luangpu Pan. All of these images are life-like.


The museum is open daily to visitors.



Address :Wat Krathum Sueapla 5 moo.5 on-nut Rd, on-nut67,Prawet sub-dis,Prawet district Bangkok 10250

Wednesday 24 October 2007

Thai Top Monk

Front row ( L-R )
Luang Pu Thuad - BE2125-BE2205 (Wat Changhai)
Acharn Mun - BE2413-BE2492 (Wat Pa Suthawas, Sakonnakorn)
Somdet Phra Putthachan (To Phromrangsi) - BE2319-BE2415 ( Wat Rakang Kositaram)
Luang Phor Toh - BE2430-BE2524 ( Wat Praduchimplee)
Luang Phor Ngern - BE2353-BE2462 ( Wat Bangklaan, Pichit)
Back Row ( L-R)
Luang Phor Doem - BE2403-BE2494 ( Wat Nongpho, Nakon Sawan)
Luang Phor Parn - BE2418-BE2479 ( Wat Bang Nom Kho )
Luang Phor Sodh - BE2427-BE2502 ( Wat Paknam, Bangkok)
Luang Phor Suk BE2390-BE2466 ( Wat Makhamtao Chainat)

Rahu Temple at Phnom Penn


Rahu at Prasat Phnom Reab, Kampong Speu
One of the most striking portrayals of this powerful spirit can be seen in Takeo Province, on the old concrete portico of Banteay Trav Pagoda, on National Road 2, just between Tonle Bati Resort and Phnom Tamao Zoo, about 30 km south of Phnom Penh. Rahu serves a protector of the temples. His picture is also often found above doorways of traditional Khmer houses, as a reminder of his terrible powers and to protect the inhabitants. What better way to keep the ordinary demons and devils from the door than to have their king sitting above the doorwayEven today, Khmers build temples and houses based on their knowledge of astrology to determine auspicious sites and other factors of importance. Belief in Rahu is an example of intangible heritage.Rahu as protector at Traitreung Pagoda on the top of Phnom Baset, Kampong Speu

Tuesday 23 October 2007

Sculpture of Rahu

Sculpture of the Rahu (demon from the Hindu mythology) in the Buddhist-Hindu subject park Sala Kaew Koo (also: Wat Khaek) with Nong Khai, north-east Thailand A unique place with numerous sculptures according to the belief of a sent of Buddhism. Sala Kaew Koo is about 3 km. from Nong Khai on the Nong Khai - Phon Phi - sai road.


Monday 22 October 2007

Khmer Krom Assoc. Auckland New Zealand



I found this picture of Rahu on a website and surprised to find that it's a logo for an association at Auckland, New Zealand.


KKA Inc is a voluntary Khmer Krom Buddhist community base, non-profit, non-political, and non-sectarian organisation. Its membership is opened to any person who willing to support and give donations for the development of Khmer Krom Buddhist community.In the mid 90's hundreds of Khmer Krom families arrived from refugee camp in thailand to settle in New Zealand.

Rahu Statue in the Park

A Huge statue of Râhu in the statuary park of Thadeua situated 25km west of the city, a visit to this park makes for a pleasant afternoon. There are approximately 200 Buddhist and religious images dating back over 500 years, most of which were introduced from India. At one end of the park is the Savan where the spirits of good people are known to reside and bring harmony to the land. The best way to reach the park is to take bus number 14 from the main bus station. Tell the driver where you are going and he will let you off at the right stop.



Thanon Tha DeuaVientiane, LA Laos
Opening Hours : 9am-4pm


Stamps of Rahu

Two stamps of Laos (1) show us a demon devouring the sun or the moon.



Pictures of Rahu


Black & Gold Rahu

Painted Egg Collect of Rahu



Tattoo image of Rahu

Trace a pic of Rahu and get ready for the tattoo!
Master in action!

Rahu - From a Hindu Temple


Sunday 21 October 2007

12 Giants Demons


At the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, you will find six pairs of giant demons that stand guard at each of the entrances. They are facing inwards towards the ubosot as if they were protecting the Emerald Buddha. These giants were built during the reign of King Rama III and each represent an important character in the Ramakian story. If you look closely, you will see that each one has its own characteristics.
On the eastern side there are two entrances.

The first one is guarded by Indrajit, who has a green face, and Suryapop, who has a red face. They both have a bamboo shoot as their crown.
The second door is oppoite the ubosot. It is guarded by Mangkorngun, with a green face, and Virunhok, with a purple face. Their crowns are topped with nagas. Notice that their right hand is at the top unlike the previous two. Also, the left hand has a ring.
On the southern side, where you exit to go to the Grand Palace, you will see two unusual Giants. These are Totkirijun, who has a red face, and Totkritorn, who has a green face. Both of their crowns are topped with bamboo shoots. However, take a look at their noses. They have elephant trunks instead of regular noses.
The western side has three doors. This first one is where you come in. It is guarded by Chakrawat, who is white and has four heads and eight arms. Standing beside him is Asakornmarsa, who is dark purple and has a double tier of hands. Their crowns are topped by cockerel's tails.
The second door is near the golden chedi. The white giant Sahasadeja has one thousand heads arranged in five tiers and two thousand arms (not shown in picture). His buddy is Tosakanth who is green and has three tiers of three heads and one on top. This one is the demon king.
The final door is again near the golden chedi but further north. These giants have cockerel's tails. They are Virunchambang and
Mayarap.

Friday 19 October 2007

It's sad..

Looking at this picture, I felt a sense of sadness. There are lots of amulet everywhere, in Thailand, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hong Kong and of course Singapore. As we are aware, many people, in the name of devotees actually make money by selling amulet ( as shown but definitely not at that price). They claimed that the amulet they are selling were genuine, limited edition, antique.... And these people are the one who make big buck$!

Take a closer look at the picture, they are all familiar amulets which we can see from shops selling them at high price and claiming how special and rare they were!
Personally I felt regardless if it's amulet of Buddhas or Monks they are all we should respect and there is no "Faked" or "Genuine" as long as you respect the Buddha and Monks, they are genuine.

I'm not stopping anyone from making money, or stopping anybody to buy/ rent from those people, to each their own, it's just my thoughts and I'm just expressing it in my way.

Whatever that is written here is not intended to harm or hurt anybody. Either ways, I bear no responsibilities for any physical or emotional harm to anybody.


Paying Homage to Nine Sacred Temples in bangkok

1. Suthat Thepwararam Temple (Wat Suthat)
2. Chao Pho Sua Shrine (The Shrine of the Godfather Sua)
3. Chana Songkhram Temple (The Temple of War Victory)
4. The City Pillar Shrine
5. Wat Phra Kaeo (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
6. Wat Pho (The Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
7. Wat Kanlayanamit
8. Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn)
9. Wat Rakhang Khositaram
Buddhists in Thailand strongly believe that worshipping sacred temples is a way to make merit.
泰国民众流传著:「在一天之中,若能朝拜九间特定寺庙的话就会得到非常的好运、得到幸福快乐、顺利平安。」

Thursday 18 October 2007

Where are all the King Ramas in Thailand

The first five kings of the Chakri dynasty each built major temples to which they are today identified with. The ashes of these kings were also enshrined at these temples. The latter kings did not build any new major temples but undertook restoration instead. The next time you are in Thailand, if you visit any of these temples, make sure you take the time to pay respects to the great kings of the Chakri Dynasty:

King Rama I – base of the presiding Buddha in the ubosot at Wat Phra Chetuphon (Wat Pho)King Rama II – base of the presiding Buddha in the ubosot at Wat Arun
King Rama III – base of the presiding Buddha in the ubosot at Ratcha Orasaram
King Rama IV – base of the presiding Buddha in the ubosot at Wat Ratchapradit
King Rama V – base of the presiding Buddha in the ubosot at Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple)
King Rama VI – base of the presiding Buddha in the northern wihan at Wat Phra Pathom Chedi (in Nakhon Pathom)
King Raa VII – base of the presiding Buddha in the ubosot at Wat Ratchabophit
King Rama VIII – base of the presiding Buddha in the wihan at Wat Sutat

Temple for those born in the year of Rabbit

The province of Nan is just one of those places that don’t and won’t get many visitors. Mainly because it is tucked away along the border with Laos but also because it isn’t on the route to anywhere. Phra That Chae Haeng, which is an important pilgrimage site for people born in the Year of the Rabbit. Both the three-tiered bot and the square based golden chedi, are very different from what we have locally.Like other sacred temples, this chedi also contains relics of the Lord Buddha. But, it also has 40 gold and silver voltive tablets.

So, this is a place where possible I want to go, at least once in my life.

The temples associated with each animal in the 12 year cycle

In Thai this system is called “naksat pi”. Thai people believe it is important that they should visit the temple associated with their birth sign.

Below are a table indicating your pilgrimage site.

Year of the Rat: Phra That Si Chom Thong, Chomthong, Chiang Mai Province
Year of the Ox: Phra That Lampang Luang, Ko Kha, Lampang Province
Year of the Tiger: Phra That Choe Hae, Phrae
Year of the Rabbit: Phra That Chae Haeng, Phu Phiang, Nan Province
Year of the Dragon: Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai
Year of the Snake: Wat Jet Yot, Chiang Mai
Year of the Horse: Wat Phra Borommathat, Ban Tak, Tak Province
Year of the Goat: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai Province
Year of the Monkey : Phra That Phanom, Ban That Phanom, Nakhon Phanom Province
Year of the Rooster : Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, Lamphun Province
Year of the Dog : Wat Ketkaram, Chiang Mai
Year of the Pig: Phra That Doi Tung, Mae Fa Luang, Chiang Rai

Wednesday 17 October 2007

Something Meaningful to share

I came across this meaningful conversation between the late Phra Panya and his followers.

The most frequently asked question posed to Phra Panyanandha Bhikkhu was: "Where will we go after we die?" Phra Panya would reply tersely: "You go to the graveyard after your death." His followers would laugh.But he explained: "We should not pay attention to where we go after our death. We only need to pay more attention to how good we are at the present moment. If we do good deeds now, we will be better off after our death."





Tuesday 16 October 2007

Visiting Thai Buddhist Temples: Tips & Etiquette

The many wonderful temples of Thailand are unique and inspiring, each in their own way.

Following are some tips for getting the most out of your visit to a Thailand temple.Tourists are welcome to participate in any capacity at temples, from just observing to joining a ritual or making an offering.
Early morning is a good time to visit temples; the air is cool, monks busy themselves with morning activities, and the complexes are generally less crowded. You may even see a group of barefoot monks carrying their bowls on morning begging rounds.Thais make regular offerings to temples and monks to gain religious merit. Supporting the Sangha (monastic community) brings an ordinary person closer to Buddhist ideals and increases the likelihood of an improved situation in the next life. Many shops near temples sell saffron-colored pails filled with everyday supplies such as toothbrushes, soap, and other common necessities; Thais bring these and other gifts as offerings to Buddhist mendicants as a way of gaining good graces. Small monetary contributions (the amount is up to you) are welcome at any temple. Some post a suggested amount, which is usually less than S$2.

Ablutions at a temple involve bowing three times, placing the forehead on the ground at the foot of the Buddha, as well as lighting candles and incense and chanting.

Source : Sarced Destinations Travel Guide

Amulet Market in Bangkok


Adjacent to Wat Mahathat , between Maharat Road and the river, is Bangkok's biggest amulet market, where a fantastic array of religious amulets, charms, talismans, and traditional medicine is sold. Each Sunday, hundreds of the faithful squat on the ground studying tiny images of the Buddha with magnifying glasses, hoping to find one that will bring good fortune or ward off evil. Each amulet brings a specific kind of luck — to get the girl, to pass your exams, to keep bugs out of your rice stock, or to ward off your mother-in-law. The newer amulet market is part of Wat Ratchanada, off the intersection of Mahachai Road and Ratchadamnoen Klang Road, across from the Golden Mount at Wat Saket .

We have seen amulet at very cheap price, we have seen them in millions of dollars. Monks taught us that amulet is for self protection, do not expect miracles. If we do not follow buddha's teaching, doing evil things, we are just creating bad karma and no amulet will help us in any way.

Source : Sarced Destinations Travel Guide

Monday 15 October 2007

The Temples (Wats) of Bangkok

The many temples of Bangkok are unique and inspiring, each in their own way, and tourists are welcome to visitBelow are some of the most temples in Bangkok that should not be missed, listed in alphabetical order. And to get a better feel for everyday Thai devotion, try to stop by a small neighborhood temple as well.
  • Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)Rising above the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is one of Bangkok's major landmarks.
  • Wat Benjamabophit (Marble Temple)Perhaps the most beautiful of Bangkok's temples, Wat Benajambophit combines western religious influences (stained-glass windows!) with an interesting collection of bronze Buddhas. Today it is an important center of Buddhist monastic learning.
  • Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic)One of Bangkok's oldest sacred sites and the home of the Center for Vipissana Meditation at Buddhist University. The biggest amulet market is next door.
  • Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)The oldest and largest temple in Bangkok, the main attraction is its giant, golden Reclining Buddha. The temple is the home of traditional Thai massage.
  • Wat Phra Keo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)Located in the Grand Palace, this is the most revered shrine in Thailand. It features a green Buddha statue about 2 feet tall, which only the king can approach in official rituals.
  • Wat Saket (The Golden Mount)An exhausting climb up to the gilded chedi provides a nice view, and an important festival is held here each November.
  • Wat Suthat (Giant Swing)This large, old and beautiful temple encompasses a variety of religious traditions, with a Buddha image, Chinese pagodas, Hindu shrines, and the remains of an ancient swing used in a ritual dedicated to Shiva.
  • Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha)An otherwise unremarkable temple that houses a huge, beautiful, solid-gold Buddha image, created in the 1700s and rediscovered in 1957.

SOURCE : Sarced Destinations Travel Guide

Friday 12 October 2007

Tribute to Phra Panyanandha Bhikkhu

One of the greatest and most revered Thai Buddhist monks, Phra Panyanandha Bhikkhu, has passed away on 10.10.2007 at the age of 96 at Siriraj hospital
The venerable Phra Panya was abbot of Cholpratan Rangsarait Temple in Nonthaburi.
Ordained as a novice when he was 18 years old, Phra Panya entered the monkhood at the age of 20 in Nanglad temple in the southern province of Phatthalung.
He joined an Italian monk on pilgrimage to Burma to teach Buddhism and went back to stay at Suan Mokkh, a forest Dhamma centre in Surat Thani.
The monk stayed at Suan Mokkh, a forest Dhamma centre in Surat Thani.
At Suan Mokkh, he dedicated his life to Buddha's teaching together with his peers, including the late Phra Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, the venerable monk who was entered on Unesco's list of great international personalities in 2005.
Source : The Nation

暖武里府巴革县春巴坛兰萨叻寺住持高僧銮菩班雅喃塔披苦(以下简称銮菩班雅)大师昨天(10日)圆寂,享年96岁。銮菩班雅的御赐丧葬法事将於明天举行。宗教厅长表示,銮菩班雅是1位德行兼具、知行并重的高僧大德,他的圆寂,预示著泰国佛教界1颗巨星的消陨,也是泰国的一大损失。 据悉,銮菩班雅於昨天早晨9点左右圆寂,法身於随后运往暖武里寺院。寺院僧众随即清理佛寺,以准备12日举行的法事。该寺主持助理表示,銮菩班雅於上星期住进医院,未料到却在此时圆寂。寺院僧众昨天仅为将要举行的法事做初步准备工作。寺院方面已经和僧王取得沟通,以联系御赐圣水事宜。銮菩班雅的丧礼将於明日下午5点左右举行,估计从早上9点即可对民众开放。

銮菩班雅原名半,1911年出生於博他仑府直辖县。在当地初中毕业后即辍学回家帮助父母。随后於18岁时在拉农府邬巴喃塔兰寺出家做沙弥。之后在当地1所小学做个校长,月薪25铢,并自修佛学。20岁时参加普吉府佛学考试,并获得第1名。并在囊腊寺出家,随乍仑嘎拉尼大师修行。 他第1次开坛讲经是在洛坤府巴纳空寺。并和意大利籍高僧前往缅甸传道。回来后在苏叻府修行,得到了已故春蓬府僧侣团主席叻差雅纳哥威大师的真传。 之后,銮菩班雅又到曼谷市散帕雅寺学习巴利文,并通过第4级考试,由於东南亚战事影响,未能修完第5级巴利文。此后,曾在清迈各地传道讲法,并且得到了北部佛教善行的崇仰。此外,还远到欧洲列国讲法,参与过国际道德重整协会(M.R.A.)会议。并於1956年12月5日起多次获得御封。另外,銮菩班雅还获得多次佛教界及民众评选的大奖,一生出版过佛学专著和道德修持手册无数。是泰国佛教善行最敬仰的几位高僧大德之一。

Wednesday 10 October 2007

Thai Buddhist Temple in Singapore

The following were list of Thai Buddhist temple in Singapore for your reference.

WAT ANANDA METAYARAMA - 50B Jalan Bukit Merah (S) 169545

PALELAI BUDDHIST TEMPLE - 49 Bedok Walk (S) 469145

WAT KANCANARAMA (BUDDHIST TEMPLE) - No 2 Lorong Ong Lye off Upper paya Lebar Rd (S) 536358

WAT SATTHAPUCHANIYARAM - 395 Bukit batok West Ave 8 (S) 658963

WAT UTTAMAYAN MUNI - 32-B Track 4 Choa Chu Kang Rd (S) 689382

WAT DHAMMACAKKRA (THAI BUDDHIST TEMPLE) - 8 Jalan Sikudangan (S) 368393

WAT PORNCHAIYARAMA - 550 Geylang Lor 3 (S) 388769

WAT CHAIMONGKOL - 24 Sirat Road (S)

WAT BUDDHANGURA - 27 Jalan Senyum (S) 418151

WAT BUDDHASANTIDHAMMA - 20 Lorong Marican (S) 417215

WAT BUDDHACAKRARATANARAMA - 21 Seraya Cresent ( off upper Thomson Rd) (S) 575839

WAT SUWANKIRIWANARAMA - 2030 V Pulau Ubin, (S) 508388

WAT BUDDHASANTISOOK - 24 Mangis Road (off Joo Chiat Place) (S) 424962

WAT BUDDHA-ARUNCHAI - 17 Vaughan Road ( off Upper Serangoon Rd) (S) 358103

WAT SANGHARATANARAMA - 17 Jalan Datoh ( off Balestier Rd) (S) 329415

WAT DHAMMATINNARAMA - 67 Kerbau Road (S) 219189

WAT ASOKARAMA - 21-23 Lor 9 Geylang Road (S) 388763

WAT DHONYAIHOM - 9 Lorong 30 Geylang (S) 388121

龙浦坤84大寿

呵叻府单坤陀县挽莱寺住持龙浦坤高僧辰4日迎来84岁寿辰。呵叻府尹素提率领当地民众向龙浦坤高僧献上了由皇上御赐的浴佛圣水以及御赐袈裟。来自寮、柬埔寨等友邻各国的僧众以及当地居民近万人参与了昨天祝寿活动。龙浦坤高僧为当地学生发放了100多份奖学金。并向前来贺寿的2300名僧侣布施,共布施达230万铢。龙浦坤高僧昨天显得神采奕奕。他在接受了府尹呈送的袈裟和圣水后,还祝愿皇上圣体康健,永佑黎民。随后,来自柬埔寨、寮国以及国内各大寺院的僧侣代表们也向龙浦坤敬献鲜花和袈裟。而龙浦坤高僧也显得格外高兴,当即为县内学生发放了106份奖学金,每份1000 铢。并对前来参与活动的僧侣父母和居士表示感谢。并吁嘱善信秉持5戒,多行善积德。另外,本次贺寿原来预计有1084名僧侣前来志庆,但实际来了2300 名,龙浦坤为前来贺寿的僧侣们每人布施1000铢,共计230万铢。据悉,昨天挽莱寺一直大雨连绵,但并没有影响善信前来表达对龙浦坤庆寿心情。上万名来自呵叻及其临近府治的善信聚集在佛寺内外。他们从家里带了大米、干粮等食物前来布施。由於大雨不断,布施活动不得不迁至寺内的大堂举行。而来自府内皇家医院的医师和护士也专门赶到佛寺,为龙浦坤高僧保驾。
This article was about LP Koon celebrating his 84th Birthday on 4/10/2007. The king presented him the holy water as well as the robe. More than 10,000 people from Thailand, laos and Cambodia join in the celebration. To top the celebration, LP koon have offer more than 106 sets of bursery worth 1000 baht for the student. the initial plan was to invite 1084 monks from all over the country to celebrate but 2300 monks turn up. LP Koon too, donated 1000baht as a token of appreciation for each monk who turn up.

Worst joss stick disaster

Who: Phra Pathom Jedi Temple
When: 02-Nov-1998
Where: Phra Pathom Jedi Temple, Thailand
What: 5 deaths


On Nov. 2, 1998, five Buddhist worshipers were killed when thre giant ceremonial joss sticks collapsed at the Phra Pathom Jedi Temple, 36 miles northwest of Bangkok, Thailand. The 79-89 ft. joss sticks had been built in April 1998 to commemorate the 84th anniversary of the construction of an image of Buddha at the temple. Although the cause of the accident is unclear, the joss sticks could have collapsed under their own weight as they had soacked up a substantial amount of rain.

Mae Naak Shrine

The Mae Naak shrine, which is supposedly her burial place, attracts visitors from far and near, and the close by monastery as well as the neighborhood peddlers all benefit from her great popularity.
Sweet incense and flower garlands perfume the air in the front part of the shrine when one enters her "home". With a donation of twenty baht, an offering package including stick incense, a piece of paper with a stamp-size gold leaf, and a yellow candle is available; a bundle of orchids and bottles of fragrance can be added by paying a little more. Pious worshipers, of course, would prepare their own floral wreaths, fresh fruit, and khanom as extra oblation. Colorful dresses, cosmetic products, together with various accessories presented by her believers fill every inch of the chamber. Toys, diapers, and milk bottles are heaped up as gifts for her child.
People are paying their respect to Mae Naak in picture 1 and in picture 2 is Mae Naak's image. Third picture is stuff for her child and television for her that's on all the time.
The devotees kneel and pray to her statue, which sits at the rear of the room and faces a television that is kept on all the time. After paying their respect or registering their requests, some would go to the back of the house and apply squares of thin gold leaf to her statue. The Nang Naak figure is reputed to be made from soil gathered from seven different cemeteries under local auspicious belief. The shrine attendants, moreover, regularly lather the statue with ointment to make her "skin" softer and more real.

Apart from general blessings and protection, Mae Naak is benevolent at giving out winning lottery numbers.
Since Nang Naak's grief and misfortune was caused by military conscription, she is believed to detest the call-ups and naturally becomes the patron deity for those who want to get out of it. Notwithstanding, bestowing fertility and pregnancy are not her specialty. Expectant mothers are often advised to avoid visiting her for obvious reason.

HOW TO GET THERE: Take the skytrain to the On Nut station. On the east side of Sukhumwit Road, you will find Soi 77. Mahabute temple is about 900 metres down this road on the left. Look out for Soi 7. The temple is alongside a canal at the end of Soi 7.

Tuesday 9 October 2007

Phra Athikan Anan- Wat Don Chan orphanage

Phra Athikan Anan Anantoe ( aka Kruba Arnan) the abbot of the temple, has supported hilltribe students around the northern region for at least 23 years, including Hmong, Akha, Karen, Yao, Tai Yai (Shan) and Lisu. He said he wanted to do something good for the country and His Majesty the King. Since the children placed a burden on the country, he had decided to help them.
"Only Thai people's kindness supports these children's expenses. The temple doesn't ask for financial support from any organisation. It's up to organisations and individuals who desire to help," Phra Athikan Anan said.
He has taught the children to follow the King's sufficiency philosophy, instructing them to eat together as well as to learn and live happily in simple conditions.
"The food for the students under the temple's patronage is donated by local people, including vegetables, fruits, seasonings and rice," Phra Athikan Anan said.
The children still need consumer products for daily use, especially washing powder and toothpaste.

I know some Singaporean used to visit them with regular donation of food and necessities as well as prepare & feed the children lunch/dinner. There are approx. 500 kids there from the ages of 5-15. Most are from the mountain regions and borders in Thailand. Some of the computers and projectors in the school were donated by them too.


Those who is going to chiangmai, perhap can make your trip more meaningful by paying them a visit and at the same time, you may choose to offer some donation to them.


The address:


Thasala District, Chiangmai.
Tel: (053) 240184

Kruba Arnan - Wat Don chan

Kruba arnan from Wat Don Chan, is a well respected monk in Changmai and many Thai royal people and family visited him. His amulet is very famous induce good luck and wealth. He has been an expert of concentration of mindfulness in Buddhism way. LP Yam has knowledge of Visha (magic) and has been studied the art of making efficacious amulets.

My impression of this monk : stout build, soft spoken and friendly. The only time when he start to chant VERY loudly, was when he feels that the person was possessed by evil spirit. Once he start to raise his voice with his hand pressed on the head of the possessed man, we can actually see the possessed man "jumping, shivering and sometime their face turned white. Another incident will be when he conduct the holy shower, WOW! if anyone who was possessed.. ah.. u can see, BIG MAN jumped the moment he splash the water, no joke, really JUMPING! of course, this info was provided by my husband who witness the session. ( holy shower for man & woman were separated, I missed the scene)
I witnessed it many times when he came to s'pore. Those spirit who possessed on people will have no way to run. There were also occasion when one have other " good" spirit on them, we can see the lady "dance" gracefully too, guess it's a form of communication between the monk and the deity. Amazing !

Thank you very Much!

First of all, I would like to express my thanks to those who have been supporting the blog. Regardless of who you are, where you were from, I’m grateful for all the supports and contributions offered to me during the past few months.
I would also like to express my gratitudes to "copycat" who gave up the name - "rahuomchan", Thanks for returning the blog name to me. I have been trying almost everyday, hopefully you will give up the name, in vain. I guess you have seen my plea and I’m grateful that you are willing to return the name to me. Sincerely, I welcome you to contribute any information to me and I will be most happy to put up on my blog.

This blog belong to Everyone out there who believe in Rahu. It’s you people who made it happened. Thanks for all the feedbacks and contributions and I hope together we can make the blog informative and interesting so that more people will benefit from it.

Atmaum, Stephen Ho, Andrew Tan, Royland and many more who have been reading the blog and providing me with positive feedback and comments, Thank you!

谢谢..... ขอบพระคุณ





Monday 8 October 2007

食小人佛

我在网上看到一篇有关Rahu的报道, 就在这里和大家分享. 这篇文章取自一个香港网站:


图中所见的佛牌,造型相当奇怪,只要大家留心一看,便会发觉佛像是没有上半身的,而且口中咬著一个月亮。为何会有此造型?原来与一段故事有关的。
相传,象神之父柱神乃众神之首,地位崇高。有一天,月亮向柱神告状点名拉胡﹝食小人佛﹞是邪神、阴神。柱神得知之后便将拉胡斩成两边,只剩上半身。及后,经过几千年之后,柱终於发现拉胡是一个正神,而月亮才是阴神。便将拉胡封为神得以位列仙班。正因为月亮当年诬告拉胡,所以今日便有如此有趣的造型了!亦由於此,拉胡最痛恨散播摇言、「专篤背脊」之人,故拉胡又称食小人佛。带这佛牌之人都希望减少被人无中生有之事,而对小人则会有报应。但凡带此佛牌的都不能妄语或者讲是非,因为这样拉胡不但止不会帮你,反而会第一个遭到惩罚。
其实,有很多朋友问我有什麼人不能带佛牌,带佛牌人人皆可。因为佛祖乃普渡慈航。不过,若果有人带著佛牌去作奸犯科,而心存保佑。对不起!佛祖不但不会保佑你!相反还会获得最性的报应!

马神




唐人街内有间关帝庙,庙内除了有关帝之外,还有其爱驹─赤兔马。
据说向赤兔马求事业、工作这方面特别灵。庙内有售杂菜 ,然后上香、点蜡烛,拉动摇铃,再把菜放到赤兔马像口旁,再诚心祷告便可。
当然也会有马迷来求马运亨通,会信万试万灵,就不得而知了!

369/1 Soi Issara Nuphap, Sumpantawong, Bangkok

由上七时至晚上十时,只有搭的士才可到达。

Sunday 7 October 2007

捐棺材为拜神「义德善堂」



曼谷的Wat Hua Lamphong 24小时都很热闹。除了因为这裡有庙和六位神像供参拜之外,主要是因为这裡是「义德善堂」的捐款部。

「义德善堂」是一个负责「生救死执」的慈善机构,创办人是一位潮洲华侨,但现已过世。但他所做的一切,对泰国都十分有贡献。原来,在泰国发生意外,第一时间到达现场的并非医护人员,而是「义德善堂」的职员。死的由他们清理尸体,无亲无故的,他们会把善信捐出来的棺材把他们安葬。
他们大部份的工作人员都是义工,此外,泰国人也喜欢到来捐钱买棺材做善事。来到「义德善堂」询问处捐钱后,在表格上填上名字,然后把一张粉红纸贴在任何一副棺木上,另一单据则拿到旁边的庙烧掉,取20支香,拜六位神,每位3支香,然后再到门外左右各一枝。捐献的金额随意, 不过听說他們为一位穷人下葬连棺材和寿衣等一共需要500泰銖. 他们相信,这样做可为自己积福,下次到曼谷,也不妨为自己积一点福吧!



「义德善堂」
728/3 Rama 4 Bangrak, Bangkok 10200

If you would like to help by donating coffins ( total cost approx: Thb$500 or you may donate ANY amount.) to those people who were poor and couldn't afford a proper burial, this is the right place to go.

Saturday 6 October 2007

夜拜泰五世皇





泰王在泰国人心目中地位祟高,在任何家庭、公司都会把泰王的照片掛在高高的地方。
就在国会大楼门前有个五世王骑著马的铜像,每晚均有不少泰国人去求拜。据说,五世王生前很爱啤酒及雪茄,所以除了莲花外,也有很多人带这两种食品许愿还神。

最多人拜祭的时间为星期二的晚上九时至凌晨十二时,信眾一批一批的来,这位五世王有多灵验可想而知。传闻越夜越灵验,信不信由你。

Ratchadamnoen, Bangkok只可搭的士去,由市區去要20分鐘。

Wednesday 3 October 2007

Pra Pitha

由缅甸传入泰国,除了对个人运程与财源(正/横)有帮助外,也可用来避凶趋吉,得贵人扶持,远离小人陷害。

掩面佛,泰语称为(必打~pitha)相传,佛祖坐下有一弟子,名为"拍马哈格咋也呐",他非常聪明,长相俊郎而且样貌与佛祖有几分相似,所以到任何地方都受到善信特别热诚的对待,更有善信误认他为佛祖,但这些也做成他修行的障碍. 部份师兄弟间也有很多闲言闲语,更因为有些女善信对他的款待,被人说他与女子有染犯下重戒. "拍马哈格咋也纳"有见及此,便利用神通法力将容貌改变、身材变成矮小、肥胖,此外,他也将自己的双眼阖上,用手掩住面孔,表示所有阻碍他修行的事物都不能从眼、耳、口、鼻进入身体去影响他的心灵,让他专注修行。后来便演变成配戴必打佛祖能挡灾避险,让一切不好的事物、不好的运气无从进入我们的身躯。

An Old Thai closed eyes Buddha amulet. The Closing Eye Buddha that knowed as ' 'PHA-PIT-Tah' or 'Pha-PID-TA' meaning ' Closed eye buddha' .The Buddha sitting in cross legs posture and two hands cover both eyes (see no evil), that is a nice character. depict a Buddha with hands firmly pressed against his face to obscure his sight. The amulets remind us that the world of the senses is uncertain and filled with illusion, hence the dramatic of Buddha rejection, But there is also a worldly lesson to be learnt: Thai people believed this amulet can bring you happiness and protect and secure good fortune for the owner And also believe the closing eye Buddha reminds us to be wary, and not be taken in easily by everything we see.
 
eckhart tolle