Unique nine-faced statue draws crowds in Nakhon Ratchasima

A unique statue named Tao Maha Phrom Wessuwan, featuring nine faces and eight arms, has been constructed at Wat Sap Takro in Nakhon Ratchasima. The statue, created by Phra Ajarn Wanchai Wannako, also known as Luang Kru Ae, is gaining significant reverence from the public despite being built only three months ago.

The statue, believed to be the only one of its kind, has nine faces and eight arms, a distinctive feature compared to the typical depictions of Tao Wessuwan. Of the eight arms, two hold staffs that touch the ground, while the remaining six carry various weapons, including a trident, a discus, a bow, arrows, a spear, and a mace.

The statue’s four main faces look toward the four cardinal directions, and an additional four smaller faces on the head look toward the secondary directions. The topmost face faces forward.

Phra Ajarn Wanchai, who relocated from Thung Pong Charoen Dhamma Monastery in Lopburi to reside at Wat Sap Takro, explained the purpose behind constructing this unique statue. He mentioned that the figure serves as a reminder of the sacred presence surrounding us in all four cardinal directions.

The eight arms, each equipped with weapons, symbolise the power to ward off evil and protect those who revere and worship the deity. The four large faces facing the cardinal directions represent the east, west, north, and south, while the four smaller faces look toward the northeast, southeast, northwest, and southwest.

The statue’s name, Maha Phrom, derives from the words Maha, meaning great, and Phrom, meaning protection. This name emphasises the statue’s role in safeguarding and guiding devotees in all aspects of life, encouraging them to be mindful of their surroundings.

Seek good fortune

A resident, 60 year old Chamnarn Muang Yodklang shared that since the statue’s construction, many people have come to pay their respects and seek good fortune. The influx of visitors has led to numerous accounts of people receiving blessings, particularly in terms of luck and career success.

On a single day, August 11, more than 2,000 people visited the temple to worship, during which firecrackers were lit in celebration. The numbers found on the firecracker remnants were 527 and 80, said Chamnarn.

“Since the creation of Tao Maha Phrom Wessuwan, I’ve seen countless people come here to worship and receive blessings. Many have reported significant improvements in their lives, from career advancements to recovering from illnesses.”

For those who visit Wat Sap Takro, there is an additional opportunity to receive blessings from Phra Ajarn Wanchai, who performs a forehead and palm inscription ritual to enhance the visitors’ fortunes, reported KhaoSod.