AESTHETIC COMMUNICATION OF NAGA ICON IN WAT SI BUENG BUN

Abstract

This research aimed 1. To explore the nature of beliefs regarding Naga, and 2. To examine the construction of meaning in Naga symbolism within the context of Wat Si Bueng Burapha, Bueng Burapha District, Sisaket Province. This qualitative research employed purposive and snowball sampling techniques to select key informants. The key informants included two groups: six local wisdom scholars and six experts in Naga sculpture specifically those involved in the creation of Naga figures at the entrance archway and in front of the vihara. Data collection was conducted through complete observation, totaling 12 participants.

The study revealed that beliefs about Naga at Wat Si Bueng Burapha are deeply interwoven with the spiritual life of the local community and can be categorized into five dimensions: 1. beliefs about the origin of Naga,
2. beliefs about its physical form, 3. beliefs in its supernatural power and sacredness, 4. beliefs related to Naga worship and religious rituals, and 5. beliefs about its relevance to the community’s way of life. The sculptural representation of Naga at the entrance and in front of the vihara incorporates key elements of art such as color, line, shape, weight, and texture to construct symbolic meaning. The creation of these images demonstrates intertextuality, with the entrance Naga reflecting Khmer artistic influences and the vihara Naga reflecting Rattanakosin-style art. These intertextual forms serve as representations (archetypes) of sacred ideals within Thai society. The Naga images function as textual messages that convey aesthetic experience beauty, pleasure, and emotional resonance. Furthermore, the sculpted Naga figures represent acts of reproduction, imbued with an aura of sacredness aligned with Buddhist ideals, reflecting the community’s worldview, beliefs, customs, and cultural identity.