Police in Uthai Thani build new shrine after lottery wins
Police officers in Huai Khot district, Uthai Thani province installed a new shrine dedicated to the spirit known as Chao Pho Saen Han Fa Laep, also referred to as Chao Pho Sai Thong, after a sergeant received multiple lottery wins following his visits to the old, damaged shrine.
Police Colonel Komnat Atisuwan, acting head of Huai Khot Police Station in Uthai Thani province, along with officers from the station, conducted a ceremony to establish the new shrine for the revered spirit known as Chao Pho Saen Han Fa Laep.
This spirit, also called Chao Lao Luang Prabang or familiarly known to locals and officers as Chao Pho Ton Sai, has been associated with a significant banyan tree that stood for over a century behind the police quarters at Huai Khot Police Station. Unfortunately, the tree fell during a storm, damaging the original shrine.
The sergeant, who regularly paid respects at the shrine, reportedly won several lottery prizes, leading him to use his winnings to fund the construction of the new shrine for Chao Pho Saen Han. Police Colonel Komnat arranged the ceremony for the new shrine, which included a statue of Chao Pho Saen Han and a sacred iron knife ordered from Uttaradit province.
These items were used in the rituals to invite Chao Pho Saen Han Fa Laep, or Chao Pho Ton Sai as he is locally known, to the newly constructed shrine. During the ceremony, participants eagerly sought lucky numbers from the holy water basin used in the rituals, as well as from incense sticks, noting the numbers 870 and the firecracker tail numbers 103-37, which many intended to use to purchase lottery tickets for the upcoming draw.
“It is a belief held by both the locals and police here that we should respect the shrine of Chao Pho Ton Sai, or Chao Pho Sai Thong, which has long been a part of Huai Khot Police Station,” said Pol. Col. Komnat.
Before the banyan tree fell, there were numerous reports from residents and officers on night duty of witnessing spirits in the vicinity of the old shrine. Following the storm that toppled the banyan tree and damaged the shrine, the new shrine ceremony was organised to restore morale among officers and locals in the area, replacing the old shrine, reported KhaoSod.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why do communities in Thailand often attribute good fortune to local spirits?
Spiritual beliefs are deeply integrated into Thai culture, offering hope and community bonds through perceived blessings and protection.
How could the sergeant’s lottery win influence local beliefs in Chao Pho Saen Han Fa Laep?
The wins reinforce the spirit’s perceived benevolence, encouraging communal reverence and participation in rituals for potential fortune.
What if the banyan tree had not fallen, would the shrine’s significance have changed?
The fallen tree necessitated a new shrine, possibly deepening the community’s connection by renewing their spiritual practices and beliefs.
How do spiritual sites like the Chao Pho Saen Han shrine impact local police-community relations?
They foster unity and cooperation, as shared spiritual practices strengthen mutual respect and community ties between officers and residents.
What role do rituals play in maintaining cultural traditions in Thailand?
Rituals preserve cultural identity and heritage, reinforcing community bonds and providing continuity amid modern changes.
