The persistence and role of indigenous beliefs and rituals in Northeastern Thailand : a case study at Moo Ban Wat Luang, Amphoe Phon Phisai, Changwat Nong Khai

Abstract

This thesis aims to identify the persistence of indigenous beliefs and rituals and their roles in the Wat Laung village, Phon Phisai District, Nong Khai Province, Northeastern Thailand. The thesis uses qualitative research by conducting fieldwork from June, 2012- March, 2013. The data was obtained from documents and fieldwork by participant observation in the rituals and in-depth interview of the ritual practitioners and related people as the key informants. Findings of the research reveal four kinds of indigenous beliefs and rituals. i.e., firstly, the belief in the Naga together with Loi Krathong festival and the Naga fireball festival held on the full moon day of the eleventh lunar month, also the rain-making rocket festival in the sixth lunar month; secondly, the beliefs and rituals concerning the ancestral spirits of Chao Mae Song Nang, Chao Mae Thong Thip, and Chao Phor Nong Reur Kham, also the ritual conducted together with the boat racing festival; thirdly, the belief in guardian spirits, Phra Phum Chao Thi with the daily offering ritual; and fourthly, the belief and ritual concerning Khwan. The indigenous beliefs and rituals play significant roles in the village. Firstly, they play the cognitive role to explain the social phenomena and things by referring to supernatural being as agent. Secondly, they play the psychological role enhancing people to be peaceful at heart and more confident in life. Thirdly, they play the sociological roles in uniting the community, transmitting the village tradition, creating the income for the villagers when there are festivals held in the village, and inspiring the art creativity. The ritual practitioners also play the role as one of the community leaders, approving and supporting the community projects. Accordingly, it is then evident that the indigenous beliefs and rituals still persist and have significant roles in present day Wat Luang village, Phon Phisai District, Nong Khai Province. Such findings, to a certain extent, should be found in other villages in the northeastern region of Thailand as well.