Phenomenon of Belief in Rahu: Dynamics of Symbol Transmission and Creation in Thai Arts

Abstract

This research focuses on the creation and succession of the Rahu symbol in Thai art, as well as the importance of the belief in Rahu in Thai society in the central, eastern and western regions by using field observation method, together with participant observation. The study of the succession of Rahu in Thai art found that there are two types of such representations: sculpture and Thai painting, including murals. The research found that the succession of the Rahu symbol in Thai art has been the result of the concept of Rahu according to Buddhism.

The research found that the concept of Rahu incorporates Brahman-Hindu ideas, but was created in a Buddhist context as it is used in Buddhist settings. The study found that the Rahu symbol is used in three ways. First is the idea of the creation of the Buddhist site as the center of the universe. Second is the idea of worshiping the Buddha in the future. The last factor is the idea of using Rahu to teach morals in Thai society. The symbolism of Rahu in art has four main factors. First, there is the idea of astrology in Thai society. Second are the characteristics and phenomena of Buddhism in Thai society, categorized into two factors: 1) popular Buddhism and 2) Buddhist commercialism. Third is the role of Rahu as a universal symbol in Thai society. Lastly, a new meaning of Rahu in Thai society can be classified into three meanings: 1) Rahu: the symbol for elimination of evil; 2) Rahu: the symbol of fortune; and 3) Rahu: the symbol of change.