Publication: From Heavem to Earth: The Thai Invention Myth Phua Sri An Wat Lai (Maitreya)
Issued Date
2010
Resource Type
Language
eng
ISSN
1686-7831
Rights
Mahidol University
Rights Holder(s)
Faculty of Arts Mahidol University
Bibliographic Citation
The Journal. Vol.6, No.1 (2010), 3-20
Suggested Citation
Aphilak Kasempholkoon From Heavem to Earth: The Thai Invention Myth Phua Sri An Wat Lai (Maitreya). The Journal. Vol.6, No.1 (2010), 3-20. Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/13294
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Title
From Heavem to Earth: The Thai Invention Myth Phua Sri An Wat Lai (Maitreya)
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Abstract
This paper aims to analyze the Phra Sri An Wat Lai Myth (the Maitreya myth) as an invented myth in Thai society. In adopting the cult of Phra Sri An, local Thais composed myths both by modifying Buddhist scriptures and by inventing new stories. This study reveals that the Phra Sri An Wat Lai myths in Lopburi province express the close relationship between Phra Sri An and the local communities, for example, in ancient places and objects or other local entities. This helps make the beliefs more realistic as well as creating bonds with the local people who take pride in familiarizing themselves with Phra Sri An. This study will demonstrate Thai people's attitude to the Buddha who emerges from the invention myth and will contribute to knowledge of Thai society and culture through this examination of Thai folklore.