Unveiling the Beliefs about Loi Krathong Day

Unveiling the Beliefs about Loi Krathong Day and Its Connection to the Yi Peng Lantern Festival

Discover the Intricate Beliefs and Practices of Loi Krathong Day

In the northern region of Thailand, Loi Krathong Day is referred to as "Yi Peng," signifying the act of making merit on the full moon day of the second month in the Lanna calendar, which corresponds to the twelfth month in the Thai calendar. Also known as "Kite Hom" or "Smoke Kite," the Yi Peng tradition involves using a thin cloth to create lanterns that collect smoke beneath them. These lanterns are then released into the air to honor Phra Upakut, a revered figure believed to have practiced powerful incantations deep within the sea. This belief is shared by the Burmese people, highlighting the cultural connections in the region.

Loi Krathong Day is a Thai festival steeped in tradition and cultural beliefs, celebrated alongside the Sky Lantern Festival. In this article, we will delve into the beliefs surrounding Loi Krathong Day and explore the connections between these two enchanting Thai celebrations.

Seeking Forgiveness from Phra Mae Ganga:

Loi Krathong is held to ask for forgiveness from Phra Mae Ganga, the guardian of the Ganges and water sources worldwide. Participants float krathongs into the river to show respect and gratitude for the water's life-sustaining properties and to apologize for polluting it with garbage and sewage.

Worshiping the Gods:

Loi Krathong is also an opportunity to worship various gods, including Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, and to pay homage to the Buddha's footprint at the sandy beach of the Nammada River. The festival also honors the Buddha's return from his heavenly sojourn, where he preached metaphysics to his mother and worshiped Chulamanee, a relic containing his hair.

Releasing Misfortune by Cutting Hair and Nail Ends:

Ancient beliefs suggest that cutting hair and nail ends and placing them into a krathong before releasing it into the river symbolizes letting go of misfortune and suffering. This act is considered a form of spiritual cleansing and exorcism.

Placing Money in the Krathong for Wealth:

There is a belief that putting money into a krathong will attract wealth and bring about financial prosperity. This act is seen as an offering to the river spirits and a way of inviting abundance into one's life.

The Significance of an Upside-Down Krathong:

Some individuals fear their krathong will capsize, as it is believed that an overturned krathong signifies bad luck or an impending misfortune. However, this is more of a personal belief, as various factors such as strong currents or winds can cause a krathong to flip.

Bathing Under the Moonlight for Prosperity:

On the full moon night of Loi Krathong, people traditionally bathe under the moonlight, believing that doing so at midnight washes away bad luck and brings prosperity. This ritual is also said to make the skin soft and radiant, like the glow of the moon.