BELIEFS OF THE BAN SEMA COMMUNITY TOWARDS PHRA ITSARACHAI (PHRA LAK) OF WAT PHATTHASEMA, MOO 6, THA DI SUB-DISTRICT, LAN SAKA DISTRICT, NAKHON SI THAMMARAT PROVINCE

Abstract

This study aimed to: 1) investigate the historical background and legend of Phra Isarachai (Phra Lak) at Wat Phatthasema; 2) examine the beliefs and faith associated with Phra Isarachai (Phra Lak); and (3) explore the rituals and votive offerings performed at Wat Phatthasema, Village No. 6, Tha Di Subdistrict, Lan Saka District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. This research employed a qualitative research methodology. Key informants consisted of two individuals directly associated with Phra Isarachai (Phra Lak) and three community leaders, totaling five participants. Data were collected through structured interviews using an interview guide, as well as participant observation during the annual Phra Lak (Buddha-pulling) festival. The collected data were analyzed descriptively to identify factual information and interpret the findings in relation to the research objectives. The findings revealed that: 1) Regarding the historical background of Phra Isarachai (Phra Lak), local narratives indicate that the Buddha image is one of seven sacred Buddha images commissioned by a king during the Ayutthaya period and subsequently enshrined in various regional centers. One of these images was brought to Nakhon Si Thammarat and is currently enshrined at Wat Phatthasema. Local residents annually organize celebratory ceremonies and participate in the traditional waterborne Buddha-pulling procession in honor of the sacred image. 2) Concerning beliefs and faith in Phra Isarachai (Phra Lak), the findings suggest that devotion to the Buddha image extends beyond its role as a religious object in Buddhism. These beliefs contribute significantly to social cohesion within the community and serve as a foundation for the Phra Lak tradition, which emphasizes collective participation, mutual cooperation, and the transmission of local cultural identity across generations. and 3) With respect to rituals and the fulfillment of vows, the study found that individuals who achieve success after making vows—particularly in legal disputes and court cases—perform various forms of votive offerings. These include applying gold leaf, making monetary donations to the temple donation box, offering dried food, and donating animal feed. Due to temple regulations prohibiting the application of gold leaf directly onto the sacred Buddha image, devotees currently apply gold leaf to a replica statue located in front of the pavilion instead.