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Phra Rahu Statue - Antique Thai Style God of Eclipses and Protection Phra Rahu Statue - 17.5cm/7"
Measures (Height) 18cm/7"
An antique Thai style Phra Rahu statue.
In the rich tapestry of Thai culture and spirituality, Phra Rahu (พระราหู) occupies a unique and fascinating position. Revered for his power to influence fate and fortune, Phra Rahu is one of the most intriguing deities in Thai cosmology.
Rooted in Hindu mythology but adopted into Thai Buddhist practices, Phra Rahu is primarily associated with eclipses, destiny, and the fluctuating nature of human life. He is both feared and respected, as his presence is believed to have the power to bring both misfortune and protection, depending on how one engages with him.
Phra Rahu originates from Hindu mythology, where he is depicted as one of the Navagrahas—the nine celestial bodies that influence human life. In Hindu cosmology, Rahu is the demon of darkness who causes solar and lunar eclipses by swallowing the sun or the moon. His story is closely tied to the Samhita Manthan (the churning of the ocean of milk), one of the most famous episodes in Hindu mythology.
In Thai culture, Phra Rahu’s character was adopted from the Hindu mythos but underwent significant transformation to suit local beliefs. While he retains his association with eclipses and celestial events, he also plays a crucial role in astrology, fate, and protection.
Thai people view Phra Rahu as a powerful, if somewhat capricious, deity who has dominion over fortune, destiny, and spiritual challenges. Here, Phra Rahu is depicted as a fearsome, dark-skinned being with a half-human, half-demon appearance, holding a sphere (representing the sun or moon) that he is about to devour. However, the sun and moon eventually reemerge from his mouth, explaining the temporary nature of eclipses.
People who face difficulties in life, such as financial hardship, illness, or family problems, often turn to Phra Rahu for help. By making offerings or participating in rituals dedicated to him, devotees believe they can earn his protection and turn potential misfortune into an opportunity for positive transformation.
In addition to his association with fate and fortune, Phra Rahu is often invoked to dispel negative energy, bad luck, and malevolent spirits. He is considered a powerful force for cleansing the mind and spirit of impurities and for driving away evil influences.
Upon his head he wears a decorative Thai style tiara in front of his Kirita-Makuta or tall conical crown. This symbolises control over Positive and Negative attitudes.
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