Irregular Dating in Lan Na: An Anomaly Resolved (The Siam Society)

The article “Irregular Dating in Lan Na: An Anomaly Resolved” by J.C. Eade examines a recurring discrepancy found in numerous Lan Na (Northern Thai) inscriptions from the 1490s AD. The inscriptions exhibit a consistent one-day difference in dating, which had puzzled scholars. Upon further analysis, Eade identifies that this anomaly results from a rare calendrical event, where an additional day was inserted into the lunar calendar—a practice not typically observed in Thailand but used in other regions like Burma. The article delves into the technicalities of the luni-solar calendar system, explaining how this extra day created an apparent error in the dates. Through a detailed analysis of various inscriptions, Eade resolves the anomaly, providing insights into the complexity of traditional timekeeping in Lan Na.

In ancient Thailand, astrology, astronomy, and calendar-keeping were deeply interconnected, serving not only spiritual purposes but also practical functions such as marking time, tracking seasons, recording history, and guiding statecraft and daily life. While traditional calendars are still used today, primarily for cultural and ceremonial reasons, the rich history and profound wisdom behind these systems often go underappreciated. The Thailand Foundation invites you to delve into this fascinating aspect of Thai heritage, where you can explore the intricate knowledge of calendars and timekeeping that reflects the depth of the country’s culture and local wisdom.