Sema stones in Dvaravati art of Northeastern Thailand
Photo Credit: Thai Culture to the World
This in-depth article re-examines the purpose and evolution of “sema stones” (Buddhist boundary markers) during the Dvaravati period (6th–11th century CE) in Thailand and Laos. Stephen A. Murphy draws on archaeology, epigraphy, textual tradition, and contemporary usage to challenge the assumption that sema stones were solely used to mark ordination halls. Instead, he reveals a more complex history in which sema stones served a variety of religious, political, and social functions.
The Thailand Foundation invites you to explore this enlightening study as a reflection of how Thai religious heritage continues to evolve while retaining deep historical roots. The changing functions of sema stones mirror Thai values of adaptability. From ancient boundary markers to modern ritual objects and even village signposts, sema remind us that sacred meaning is not fixed but is continually reshaped by the communities who uphold it.
Author: Stephen A. Murphy
This article was published in the Rian Thai International Journal of Thai Studies and is being shared by the Thailand Foundation with permission from the Thai Studies Center, Chulalongkorn University, all rights reserved to the owner of the material.
