Hae Prasat Phueng: The Wax Castle Parade
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Parades are a universal tradition, each shaped by the distinct values and customs of a community. Some parades serve as expressions of faith, while others flaunt eye-catching displays of intricate floats. The Wax Castle Parade of Sakon Nakhon province, Thailand is a tradition that uniquely blends both devotion and artistry, offering a vivid reflection of the community’s Buddhist faith and exceptional craftsmanship.
What is Hae Prasat Phueng?
Hae Prasat Phueng (แห่ปราสาทผึ้ง), or the Wax Castle Parade, is tradition that is practiced primarily in Sakon Nakhon province in Northeastern Thailand as a part the larger annual End of Buddhist Lent Festival. It takes place on the day before Wan Ok Phansa (ออกพรรษา), or the Day of the End of Buddhist Lent, which typically falls in October. The name “Hae Prasat Phueng” translates to “wax castle parade,” with “hae (แห่)” meaning “parade,” “prasat (ปราสาท)” meaning “castle,” and “phueng (ผึ้ง)” meaning “wax.” As the name suggests, the celebration features a grand procession of intricately crafted miniature wax castles, which are offered to Buddhist temples as a merit-making ritual.
Photo Cr. travel.kapook
The procession itself is a lively affair, with floats carrying the wax castles, often accompanied by musicians, performers, local residents dressed in traditional attire. The castles are eventually taken to local temples as offerings, where they are presented to the monks as a symbolic act of devotion. This merit-making practice is believed to help guide the spirits of deceased ancestors to a better afterlife, bringing spiritual benefits to the living as well. It is also believed that those who offer wax castles during their lifetime would be reborn in heavenly realms with magnificent castles as their residence. Beyond the religious aspects, the parade fosters a sense of community pride, with villages often competing to create the most impressive wax castle, making the event not only a religious observance but also a celebration of local artistry and identity.
The castles are intricately designed, often taking months of preparation by skilled artisans and community members. The wax structures range in size, with some being small and simple, while others are large, elaborate replicas of religious monuments or local architecture. The craftsmanship involved is highly detailed, with the castles adorned using wax molded into floral patterns or other decorative shapes.
Origin of the Tradition
The origins of Hae Prasat Phueng can be traced back to the ancient Buddhist tradition of merit-making, a practice that holds significant importance in the Northeastern region of Thailand, also know as the Isan region. The wax castles, which are central to the parade, evolved from earlier rituals involving the creation of ton phueng (ต้นผึ้ง), or wax trees, crafted as offerings to temples. These wax trees were made from banana stalks, cut to an appropriate length, and supported by a tripod base. Melted wax was poured into molds to create floral shapes known as dok phueng (ดอกผึ้ง), or wax flowers, which were then attached to the banana stalks. This tradition has deep roots in the belief that offerings made during the end of Buddhist Lent generate significant merit, benefiting both the living and the spirits of deceased ancestors. Wax, a symbol of purity and light, was historically used in candle-making for religious rituals, further reinforcing its connection to Buddhist devotion.
Dok phueng (ดอกผึ้ง)
Photo Cr. The Isaan Record
Ton phueng (ต้นผึ้ง)
Photo Cr. prasadpungsakonnakon
Over time, in Sakon Nakhon Province, these simple wax trees transformed into more elaborate structures. Communities would come together to craft increasingly intricate offerings, starting with designs that mimicked spirit shrines and the distinctive ordination halls, or sim (สิม), found in Isan Buddhist temples. Eventually, these structures became even more grand, taking the form of royal palaces and pavilions. The processions accompanying these offerings also grew in scale, evolving into the Hae Prasat Phueng parade as it is known today, an iconic part of Sakon Nakhon province.
Prasat Phueng: The Wax Castles
Prasat phueng (ปราสาทผึ้ง), or wax castles, are the heart of the Hae Prasat Phueng celebration, representing a stunning blend of religious devotion and artistic craftsmanship. The creation of prasat phueng is a labor-intensive task that showcases the remarkable skill and creativity of the artisans involved. It begins with the construction of the framework, which is often made from bamboo or wood. Once the structure is built, molten beeswax is poured into molds to create intricate decorative elements. These wax components are then meticulously arranged and attached to the framework, with artisans ensuring that every detail is in harmony with the overall design. The process, passed down through generations, reflects not only the artisans’ technical skill but also the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the region. Furthermore, the creation of prasat phueng is a communal activity, with villagers coming together to contribute their time and talents, further emphasizing the collective spirit of the Isan people.
Photo Cr. สำนักงานประชาสัมพันธ์จังหวัดสกลนคร
The shape and design of the castles can vary from community to community. However, there are four main styles that can be observed:
1.Golden Wax Castles or Prasat Phueng Thong (ปราสาทผึ้งทรงพระธาตุ):
This style is modeled after religious stupas and chedis, such as those found at Wat Phra That Phanom and Wat Phra That Choeng Chum. The Prasat Phueng Thong typically has a square or circular base, with multiple tiers that taper into a pointed top, often adorned with a spire. This design symbolizes spiritual ascension and the link between the physical world and the heavens. The wax patterns that decorate this structure often feature intricate floral motifs and Buddhist imagery, reflecting both religious devotion and artistic excellence.
2. Spirit Shrine Wax Castle or Prasat Phueng Buran (ปราสาทผึ้งทรงหอผี):
This style is based on traditional Isan houses and small shrines. The design resembles local homes or ancestral houses, which serve as places of spiritual significance. This style of prasat phueng is square-shaped with a multi-layered roof, symbolizing the connection between earthly dwellings and the spiritual realm. The structure may also resemble spirit houses commonly found in rural areas, representing the belief that spirits of ancestors need shelter. This style is simpler than the religious stupa-inspired forms but equally important in the context of the community’s respect for their ancestors.
3.Pavilion Wax Castle or Prasat Phueng Busabok (ปราสาทผึ้งทรงบุษบก):
A busabok (บุษบก) is an elaborate pavilion or shrine with multi-tiered roof and a spire at the top. It symbolizes royalty and divinity, and is often used to place relics or Buddha statues. The Prasat Phueng Busabok, thus, highlights a high level of craftsmanship in wax castle making, as it requires great precision to form the intricate, openwork designs. It features a square base with a multi-tiered roof, topped with a high spire. The open framework of this style allows for the display of elaborately crafted wax flowers and decorative elements.
4.Four-Faced Wax Castle or Prasat Phueng Chaturamuk (ปราสาทผึ้งทรงจตุรมุข):
This style is modeled after palaces or royal pavilions, which often feature a “four-faced” design. Each side of the structure opens outward, creating a cross-like shape when viewed from above. This style represents openness and inclusiveness, symbolizing a connection with all directions and the extension of merit to all beings. The design is complex, with highly decorative details on each of the four faces.
Values Behind the Festival
The tradition of Hae Prasat Phueng is deeply rooted in spiritual, cultural, and artistic values, making it much more than just a visual spectacle. At its core, the prasat phueng serves as a symbolic offering to the Buddha, temples, and monks, embodying the Buddhist practice of merit-making. In Buddhism, merit-making is a central act believed to generate positive karma, which can influence one’s future rebirth and spiritual progression. This merit can also be transferred to the deceased, particularly to late relatives and ancestors, to aid them in their afterlife journey. The intricate wax castles, crafted with great care, symbolize the community’s devotion and respect, while also helping to guide the spirits of the deceased to a better existence. This dual purpose—generating merit and honoring ancestors—infuses the tradition with profound spiritual significance, reflecting the community’s deep reverence for both their faith and their forebears.
The prasat phueng is filled with rich Buddhist symbolism. The wax itself, as a material, is considered pure, and its use in religious offerings—whether as candles, decorative elements, or molded designs—symbolizes the light of wisdom dispelling the darkness of ignorance. The tiered structure of the wax castle represents the spiritual journey towards enlightenment, with the pinnacle at the top symbolizing the ultimate goal of Nirvana. The floral patterns, especially the lotus, are frequent motifs in prasat phueng designs, symbolizing purity and spiritual awakening, as the lotus is a key symbol in Buddhism for rising above worldly suffering. Through these symbolic designs, the prasat phueng embodies not only devotion but also the teachings of the Buddha, acting as a physical manifestation of faith.
Photo Cr. สำนักงานประชาสัมพันธ์จังหวัดสกลนคร
However, prasat phueng is not solely about religious reverence; it also reflects the community’s artistic heritage and the incredible skills of its craftsmen. The creation of a wax castle is a labor-intensive process that involves months of planning, design, and execution. The artisans, many of whom have inherited these skills from previous generations, showcase their ability to mold wax into intricate shapes and forms. This craftsmanship is not just about technical skill but also about creativity, as each prasat phueng is unique, reflecting the artist’s personal touch and the community’s collective effort. The process requires precision, from constructing the bamboo or wooden frame to casting and arranging the wax decorations. It is a communal activity, with entire villages contributing to the building of these castles, further emphasizing the unity and shared values of the community.
Conclusion
Hae Prasat Phueng stands as a vibrant testament to the spiritual devotion and creative spirit of Sakon Nakhon’s residents. This wax castle parade, steeped in Buddhist symbolism and exemplary artist, reflects not only the people’s reverence for their faith but also their commitment to preserving an artistic heritage passed down through generations. If you ever find yourself in Northeastern Thailand during the End of Buddhist Lent, don’t miss the chance to witness this captivating blend of devotion, culture, and craftsmanship—it’s a spectacle that will leave you both enlightened and in awe of the beauty and meaning behind every intricately crafted wax structure.
The story of the “Wax Castle Parade” is a vibrant snippet in the compendium of Thai culture and heritage. This festive tradition blends faith and craftsmanship into an eye-catching display of spiritual devotion and artistic heritage. Join us in exploring more stories of Thailand and its people, as we take you on a journey to discover the essence of Thainess.
*This article was written with the help of AI
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Sources
- Intangible Cultural Heritage, Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture
- Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Anthropology Centre
Author: Tayud Mongkolrat
15 October 2024