Oracles in Thai Literature

Abstract

There are three ways of foretelling in Thai literature : by a water current, by a child, and by a candle light. Foretelling by a water current appears in Lilit Phralo and KhunChang Khun Phaen; foretelling by a child appears in Ramakian; and foretelling by a candle light appears in Inao. The result of the study shows that each character foretells an oracle because he/she has an intrapersonal conflict and cannot make a decision. The most important process of foretelling is to meditate, and most prayers are about asking holy spirits to help make a decision. Most of the oracles are against their expectations. People who foretell however, still act according to their own intentions.