Emerald Buddha
The Emerald Buddha, or Phrabuddha-maṇīratana-paṭimākara (lit. Statue of the Great Emerald Buddha) symbolizes spiritual purity, protection, and prosperity in Thai culture.
Despite its name, the statue is carved from a single piece of jade, it represents the Buddha’s enlightenment and wisdom.
The statue is considered a powerful guardian of the nation and its people. The Emerald Buddha image is in the posture of sitting in meditation (Samādhi):
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The two hands are placed face-up, one stacked upon the other, on the lap.
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The right hand covers the left hand.
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The right shin on top of the left shin.
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Adorned with three sets of gold seasonal decorations.
The original Emerald Buddha is one of Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist images, symbolizing spiritual protection and national unity. It is housed at Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok and is carved from a single piece of jade. The statue wears different ceremonial robes depending on the season.There are three sets of robes: for the Summer, Rainy season and Winter. Each robe is made of gold and precious materials and reflects harmony with nature.
The seasonal robe changes represent renewal, balance, and blessings for the country. The changing of the Emerald Buddha’s robes is a sacred royal ceremony in Thailand. It is performed three times a year to mark the changing seasons. The King, or a royal representative, presides over the ritual as an act of merit-making. Each robe symbolizes protection, prosperity, and harmony for the nation. The ceremony reflects the deep connection between Buddhism, monarchy, and Thai tradition
Summer
Rainy Season
