Sacred Sites: Sanctification of Animals and Women in the Community of Chao Phya River Area, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Abstract

This research article aims 1) To investigate the beliefs surrounding the sacredness of animals and women within the communities of the Chao Phraya River Basin 2) To develop a contemporary understanding of this sacredness 3) To present a learning model that elucidates the sacredness of animals and women in this context. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, incorporating documentary research, qualitative inquiry, and participatory action research. Data were collected through the analysis of relevant documents and in-depth interviews with a group of 30 academic experts , followed by descriptive analysis writing. The findings are as follows: 1) Foundational Beliefs: The concept of sacredness is rooted in three primary religious and spiritual traditions: (a) Animism: Animals, specifically the frog and the elephant, are regarded as symbols of fertility and abundance. Women hold positions of high status, serving as ritual leaders. (b) Brahmanism-Hinduism: The elephant is revered as a divine vehicle (vahana) and is intrinsically linked to mythology. Women hold significant roles in ritualistic practices, with symbolism that emphasizes the mutual support and interdependence between the male and female genders. (c) Theravada Buddhism: Animals featured in the Jataka tales serve as symbols of virtue and purity. Women are often perceived as potential obstacles to monastic practice; however, they are simultaneously recognized as essential supporters who enable men to achieve their spiritual objectives. 2) Development of a Contemporary Understanding: (a) Community Level: The traditional belief in the sacredness of the carp has been developed into the production of sacred amulets and popular culture artifacts, such as art toys, to communicate moral virtues. Concurrently, the narratives of sacred female figures, including Phra Nang Sroi Dok Mak and Mae Nang Pluem, are perpetuated through rituals and artistic representations. (b) Institutional Level: The concept of sacred animals is actualized through the restoration of temples associated with significant fauna, such as elephants, thereby preserving them as tangible cultural heritage linked to national history. In parallel, the legends of sacred women, like Phra Nang Sroi Dok Mak, are elevated to the status of cultural heritage, which serves to reflect historical Thai-Chinese relations and articulate spiritual values, thereby reducing perceptions of pure superstition. 3) Dissemination and Application of Knowledge: (a) The Historical Dimension: This involves an examination of human-animal relations, particularly the veneration of the elephant as an animal of royal prestige and a critical military asset during the Ayutthaya period. The white elephant, in particular, was accorded a status equivalent to that of a deity. This dimension also explores human-human relations by presenting the multifaceted roles of women, both as national heroines and as figures commemorated in architectural forms such as stupas which serve to memorialize their significant contributions and heroic deeds. (b) The Cultural Dimension: exemplified by facilities such as the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace. It also entails the design of living cultural tourism experiences and heritage trails that follow the historical paths of significant women.