Namphueng Padamalangula offers a deconstructive reading of Traiphum Phra Ruang, a foundational Thai cosmological text. By focusing on the “Lokanta hell,” a mysterious realm situated outside the otherwise clearly structured Buddhist universe, the article challenges traditional views of cosmic order and completeness. Using Derridean theory, the paper argues that the presence of this boundary-blurring space reveals deep philosophical tensions about inside and outside, order and chaos, and the limits of human understanding.

The Thailand Foundation invites you to engage with this thought-provoking exploration of Thai cosmology and its metaphysical depth. The article reflects how Thai Buddhism values not only structure and hierarchy but also recognizes the mystery and complexity of existence—reminding us that Thai thought embraces ambiguity, layered truths, and the limits of fixed definitions.

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Author: Pram Sounsamut

* 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.