Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Thai Spirit House ("san pra poom")

Thai Spirit House

When Buddhism first arrived in Thailand (Siam) over 2500 years ago, spirit worship, or animism, was already widely practiced throughout Asia. Today, many of these animistic beliefs are intertwined with Buddhism and it is here that the Spirit House makes its entrance. A spirit house (‘san pra poom’) is a small shrine usually found outside residential or business buildings in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia. In Thai's beliefs the spirit house chosen to protect a dwelling will depend on which type of spirit is expected to live there.

Characteristics of spirit houses depend on the style of the spirit house crafter. This Thai Spirit House made by wood.

Can see any Thai Spirit House on Ebay :)


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