The Concept of Sacred Sites for Animals and Women in Theravada Buddhism as Manifested in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Abstract

               This research aims to: 1) examine the concept of sacred space for animals in Theravada Buddhism; 2) examine the concept of sacred space for women in Theravada Buddhism; and 3) analyze the concepts of sacred space for animals and women in Theravada Buddhism within the context of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. This study employs a documentary research methodology, analyzing relevant texts and academic works. The findings are as follows: 1. The sanctity of animals originates from religious narratives that feature animals from Buddhist and Brahmin-Hindu mythology, such as the Garuda, the Naga, or animals appearing as Bodhisattvas in the Jataka tales. These concepts are integrated into religious rituals, such as the Khandha Paritta chant. Concurrently, community narratives establish sanctity through religious architecture, such as the construction of elephant-encircled chedis (stupas), which serves to intertwine local history with sacred sites.2. The sanctity of women is derived from religious narratives concerning legendary heroines, such as Queen Chamadevi, and from beliefs in female deities or mother goddesses who represent creation and fertility, such as Phra Mae Thorani (the Earth Goddess). Within community narratives, sanctity arises from the commemoration of historical events and the heroic deeds of significant figures, such as the valor of Queen Sri Suriyothai, which has led to the erection of monuments for remembrance and veneration.3. The analysis within the context of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province indicates that the formation of sacred spaces for animals and women is a cultural construction intrinsically linked to the institutions of the nation, religion, and the monarchy. The sacred space for animals is manifested through the belief in the white elephant as an auspicious animal befitting the king's glory and through the legend of the Tapian fish, which is associated with monarchical power. Meanwhile, the sacred space for women is represented by sites such as the Chedi of Queen Sri Suriyothai, the Chao Mae Soi Dok Mak Shrine, and Wat Mae Nang Pluem, all of which reflect the connection between women and the institutions of the monarchy and Buddhism. In conclusion, the sacred spaces for animals and women in Thai society are the result of a synthesis of religious narratives, history, and local folklore with socio-political structures, a process intended to construct meaning and perpetuate the collective memory of the community.