FOLK RITUALS : AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF BELIEFS AND TRANSMISSION OF THE FOUR GUARDIAN DEITIES RITUAL WISDOM TO YOUTH IN PHRAE PROVINCE

Abstract

          This study aime to (1) examine the body of knowledge related to Khuen Thao Thang Si (Ritual of the Four Guardian Kings) practiced by communities in Phrae province; (2) study the belief systems and cosmological concepts underlying this ritual; and (3) transmit the ritual knowledge and indigenous wisdom of  Khuen Thao Thang Si ritual to the younger generation in Phrae province. The study employed an action research methodology, incorporating in-depth field interviews and participatory knowledge-transfer activities.

          The research findings were as follows:

          1. The Khuen Thao Thang Si ritual is a traditional rite venerating the Four Guardian Kings (Caturmahārāja), together with Indra and the Earth Goddess, making a total of six deities. It is performed to bless community events and ensure prosperity. Originating from Northern Thai indigenous wisdom, this ritual is conducted prior to auspicious occasions. Its preparation requires strong community cooperation, including the arrangement of offerings, food, and ritual flags (tung). A wooden altar is constructed, and six Sa Tuaung (offering trays) are placed to honor the six deities. The ritual specialist then invokes the deities to bestow protection, harmony, and well-being upon all participants.

          2. In Phrae province, Khuen Thao Thang Si ritual is performed to invite the protective deities who safeguard the world and the community, reflecting a syncretic belief system combining Buddhist, Brahmanical, and local animistic traditions. The offerings typically include Sa Tuaung trays, sticky rice, sweet dishes, betel nuts, flowers, and various colors of ritual flags. It is commonly conducted before auspicious events, such as housewarming ceremonies, merit-making, and New Year festivities, to enhance spiritual confidence and good fortune. The ritual embodies long-standing values of faith, gratitude, and the deep cultural connection between the community and its ancestral traditions.

          3. The intergenerational transfer of Khuen Thao Thang Si ritual involves five key processes: building awareness through local knowledge keepers; teaching the history and belief systems of the ritual; providing hands-on experience in event preparation, traditional dance, drumming, and the invocation of the Four Guardian Kings; facilitating intergenerational exchange of knowledge, chants, and spiritual values; and utilizing digital media and community-based activities to instill pride in cultural heritage. These processes aim to develop deeper understanding among youth of the ritual’s meaning and its significance within local cultural identity.

          Overall, the findings offer practical guidelines for preserving and revitalizing local ritual traditions in a sustainable manner, and provide action-based knowledge transmission model that can be adapted to other cultural practices.