The Chronicle of Phra Nang Chamaridewi of Amphoe Li
Photo credit: The Siam Society
The article “The Chronicle of Phra Nang Chamaridewi of Amphoe Li,” translated by Hilary Disch, recounts the historical and legendary narrative of Li, a district in southern Lamphun province, Thailand. It focuses on the figure of Chamari, a leader who guided her people away from conflict with the Han Chinese and founded the town of Li. The story, inscribed on the walls of Wat Phrathat Duang Diao, details her leadership, the establishment of Theravada Buddhism, and the local culture that endures today. This chronicle contributes to the discourse on women’s autonomy in Buddhism and provides insight into the regional history of northern Thailand.
* This article was published in the Journal of Siam Society and is being shared on the Thailand Foundation Website with permission from The Siam Society.
