Linguistic Strategies and Conceptual Reflections in Fortune Sticks at Rong Kiek Shrine : A Case Study Based on the Speech Act Theory

Abstract

This research article aims to investigate the linguistic strategies and underlying conceptual themes found in the fortune sticks (siam si) at Rong Kiek Shrine located in the Samphanthawong District of Bangkok. The study has two main objectives: (1) to analyze the linguistic strategies employed in the texts of the fortune sticks, and (2) to explore the conceptual reflections conveyed through these messages. Employing a qualitative research methodology, the study analyzes 50 randomly selected fortune sticks from Rong Kiek Shrine using Searle’s (1976) Speech Act Theory as the primary analytical framework. The analysis focuses on linguistic structures, communicative intentions, and the transmission of cultural values. The findings revealed that (1) the fortune sticks utilize a range of speech acts—directives, representatives, expressives, and commissives—through concise language that conveys intentions to persuade, advise, warn, and encourage the recipients in morally driven ways. (2) The conceptual themes identified in the texts encompass Buddhist philosophies, traditional Chinese values, and contemporary life perspectives. These include the notion of Karma, the pursuit of virtue, self-transformation, the use of mindfulness and reason, the importance of family and kinship, acceptance of uncertainty, faith as a driving force, hope as motivational energy, moral awareness, and the interpretation of language as a means of ethical instruction. The fortune sticks at Rong Kiek Shrine serve not merely as tools of divination, but as linguistic and cultural instruments that deeply reflect the belief systems and cultural values of the Thai-Chinese community.