Close-up view of the Erawan Temple near the bombing site in Bangkok

Buzz

Content

Few are aware that the Erawan Temple is one of the special temples in Thailand as it belongs to Hinduism, not Buddhism.

Close-up view of the Erawan Temple near the bombing site in Bangkok

As reported, around 7 p.m. (local time) on August 17, a large explosion occurred near the Erawan Temple in the Ratchaprasong area of Bangkok, Thailand.

The explosion resulted in at least 25 fatalities and over 80 injuries. Thai authorities also recently discovered and successfully defused 2 additional bombs.

Many wonder if the Erawan Temple – the temple near the bombing site – holds any special significance. Which supreme deity does it worship and what does it symbolize? Let's explore the famous Erawan Temple, located in the heart of Bangkok, right away.

Located in Pathum Wan district – the bustling central area near Siam Paragon and Central World in Bangkok – the Erawan Shrine (or San Phra Phrom) is recognized as one of the sacred shrines visited by many tourists in Bangkok.

Although Thailand is widely known as a Buddhist nation with thousands of magnificent temples and monasteries built each year, few are aware that the Erawan Shrine is a Hindu temple.

The formation of this shrine is quite unique: The Erawan Shrine was constructed in the 1950s after the Thai government decided to build the upscale Erawan Hotel at this location. However, the initial phase of the hotel construction faced challenges, with many workers refusing to participate.

After consulting expert opinions, the Thai government ultimately decided to erect a small shrine to express reverence for the four-faced Hindu deity – Than Tao Mahaprom.

This is a Brahma deity – symbolizing the Creator God – embodying four noble qualities: kindness, compassion, empathy, and justice. These four qualities of the deity will be represented by four faces facing in four different directions.

The Brahma deity statue in the shrine was completed by the Thai Fine Arts Department on November 9, 1956, primarily made of plaster mixed with a blend of gold, copper, and metals. Subsequently, the statue will be cast and entirely coated with metal.

The Brahma deity statue now features 4 faces and 4 pairs of hands, each holding various weapons.

Today, not only foreign tourists but also many local residents come here to express reverence for the deity. They often place floral wreaths, fruits, with hopes that their wishes will be fulfilled.

The merit money collected at the Erawan Shrine is gathered to support charitable organizations or purchase medical equipment for hospitals in need.

According to Tri Thức Trẻ

***

Reference: Travel guide Mytour

MytourAugust 25, 2015

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Erawan Temple in Thailand?

The Erawan Temple, also known as the Erawan Shrine, is significant as it is a Hindu temple dedicated to the four-faced deity, Brahma, symbolizing creation. Located in Bangkok, it represents kindness, compassion, empathy, and justice, attracting both tourists and locals.

Which deity is worshiped at the Erawan Temple in Bangkok?

The Erawan Temple worships Than Tao Mahaprom, a manifestation of Brahma, who embodies four noble qualities. This deity is revered for its significance in Hinduism, which is often overlooked in predominantly Buddhist Thailand.

Why was the Erawan Shrine built in the 1950s?

The Erawan Shrine was constructed in the 1950s to address construction challenges faced while building the Erawan Hotel. The Thai government erected the shrine to honor the deity and appease local beliefs, ensuring the successful completion of the hotel.

What rituals are performed at the Erawan Temple by visitors?

Visitors to the Erawan Temple often perform rituals such as offering floral wreaths and fruits to the deity. These acts are done with hopes for wish fulfillment, showcasing the temple's role as a spiritual hub for both locals and tourists.

Mytour's content is for customer care and travel encouragement only, and we are not responsible.

For errors or inappropriate content, please contact us at: [email protected]