An Analysis of Beliefs and Practices towards Vessavaṇa in Thai Society according to Buddhist Teachings

Abstract

This research has three objectives: to examine the concept of Vessavaṇa according to Buddhist teachings, to explore the belief in Vessavaṇa in Thai society, and to analyze the belief in Vessavaṇa in Thai society according to Buddhist teachings. It is a qualitative study that gathers data from the Tipitaka, the Atthakathā, documents, research, and online media, and interviews with 5 key informants. The results of the study reveal that, according to Buddhist teachings, Vessavaṇa which Thai people like to call Thao Vessuvan is Kuvera, one of the Four Great Kings who rules the celestial realm of Cātumahārajikā. He comands demons as his followers and serves as the guardian of the northern world.The term " Vessavaṇa " refers to a title appointed by Sakka Devarāja. Vessavaṇa is a handsome deity, not a fearsome demon, and is a Sotāpanna (a stream-enterer), one of the noble beings, considered a precious jewel in the Triple Gem. He holds the power and responsibility to protect the Buddha, his disciples, and humans in general. His role includes monitoring human behavior, both good and evil, and reporting it to the deities in Tāvatisā heaven. There is no specific practice toward Vessavaṇa prescribed in Buddhist teachings. Thai society, however, believes that Vessavaṇa is a fearsome demon, the Lord of Death, King Bimbisāra, the god of wealth, or the leader of the Four Heavenly Kings. He plays three important roles: as a guardian deity of the world in the northern direction, as a protector of Buddhism and Buddhist sites, and as the god of wealth. The common practice toward Vessavaṇa involves worship, offerings, and prayers for blessings and favors. The analysis of the belief in Vessavaṇa in Thai society according to Buddhist teachings shows that there are differences in terms of appearance, characteristics, roles, and practices toward Vessavaṇa. In Thai society, worship is emphasized, seeing Vessavaṇa as a protective deity who grants success and wealth, whereas Buddhist teachings do not prescribe specific practices toward Vessavaṇa. However, worshiping Vessavaṇa by doing good deeds according to Buddhist principles is in line with the principles of Devatā-Bali (offering to deities), adherence to the Triple Gem, and self-reliance.