A STUDY OF THE VALUE OF PHRA YOD KHUN PHON IN PHAYAO PROVINCE

Abstract

The study aimed to (1) study beliefs, its history of the creation, to (2) explore its influence, and to (3) investigate its values with qualitative method focusing on documents and interview with experts of PhayaoPhrakruangyodkhunphon. The study revealed that the PhayaoPhrakruangyodkhunphon is believed to have influence as an amulet because one can carry and it can support the possessor with the Buddha's grace in supporting one with great power, invulnerability, and fertility, as the object of worship associating with Buddhist art for more than 500 years of creation with a size ideal for carrying and Phrakruangyodkhunphon Buddha images were consecrated at the same time with the Phachaotonluang Buddha image. Phrakruangyodkhunphon has its value with a feeling of mental refuge with a sense of awareness of the occupants. It is regarded as the reminder for wholesome deeds whereas aspect of the Buddhist art indicates the Buddha image in subduing Mara (Evil) posture and meditation attitude in upside down bell shape with delicately beautiful art along with the economic value with different prices in Phayao and Lanna region.