A Study of Roles and Build Ritual Phra Sri Siam Chakkraphat Thewathirat Bhuddhaphrompanyo Dhamma Monastery, Yang Ngam Branch, Yang Ngam Sub-district, Nong Phai District, Phetchabun Province.

Abstract

     This research examines the roles, functions, and ritual symbols employed in the casting ceremony of Phra Sri Siam Chakkraphat Thewathirat at the Phutthaphromma Panyo Dharma Practice Center, Yang Ngam Branch, Yang Ngam Sub-district, Nong Phai District, Phetchabun Province. Data were collected from December 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026, through documentary research and fieldwork at the center, applying Victor Turner's theoretical framework on ritual symbolism and the conceptual approach of Siraporn Na Thalang. The study analyzes the symbols appearing in the ritual and the roles and functions involved in the casting ceremony of Phra Sri Siam Chakkraphat Thewathirat.

     The findings reveal that ritual symbols in the Buddha image casting ceremony are categorized into three types: symbols related to nation, religion, and monarchy—namely the Thai national flag; symbols associated with the homeland and national security, including cast sacred images of Phra Mae Thorani (Mother Earth) wringing her hair, Phra Siam Thewathirat, and the prototype of Phra Sri Siam Chakkraphat Thewathirat; and symbols that enhance the sacredness of the image, comprising the Buddha image in imperial attire, photographs of Phra Phromma Panyo (Luang Pu Du of Wat Sakae), and ceremonial necklaces containing Chakkraphat powder amulets used in personal ritual practices.

     The ritual integrates Buddhist beliefs, faith in guardian deities protecting Thai territory, and the recitation of the Maha Chakkraphat incantation. The roles manifest across four dimensions: (1) individual, (2) familial, (3) societal, and (4) national. Notably, the national dimension exerts the greatest influence on participants, as the creation of Phra Sri Siam Chakkraphat Thewathirat aims to bolster morale among soldiers stationed along the Thai-Cambodian border and to cultivate awareness among Buddhists and citizens regarding devotion to their homeland and steadfast adherence to the nation's three pillars: Nation, Religion, and Monarchy. The sacred image is believed to gain greater sanctity when Buddhists employ it as a meditative medium for reciting the Maha Chakkraphat incantation, similar to other Maha Chakkraphat amulets.