The Erawan Shrine is at a corner of a major intersection in the area of large, expensive hotels and large shopping malls. There usually is a human traffic jam there as all sorts of Thai people stop to show their respect and offer garlands of flowers and joss sticks to gain favor. A statue of the 4 headed Hindu god of creation Brahma is located there. The idolatry that occurs here would make one think that there is great sacred religious significance to this shrine. However, people stop here to gain favor for material success, wealth, and good luck.
It all started in the 1950's when the forst Erawan Hotel was being built. Several mishaps delayed the opening so the Brahman shrine was erected to ward off injuries. Construction proceeded with out problems and the hotel did a booming business so the shrine was celebrated as a harbinger of material success.
If wishes are granted then thanks are shown by commissioning shrine musicians and dancers to perform. So there is a constant hum and tinkle of music, joss stick smoke, worshippers and onlookers at the site.
It all started in the 1950's when the forst Erawan Hotel was being built. Several mishaps delayed the opening so the Brahman shrine was erected to ward off injuries. Construction proceeded with out problems and the hotel did a booming business so the shrine was celebrated as a harbinger of material success.
If wishes are granted then thanks are shown by commissioning shrine musicians and dancers to perform. So there is a constant hum and tinkle of music, joss stick smoke, worshippers and onlookers at the site.
1 comment:
Burn a Joss stick for me. I could use the help :)
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