Thailand: Krut Pha (top), a garuda carrying the Hindu god Vishnu, and Rahu (Snake Demon and causer of solar and lunar eclipses), swallowing the moon, Wat Traimit, Bangkok

The National Emblem (National Symbol) of Thailand features the Garuda, a figure from both Buddhist and Hindu mythology. In Thailand, this figure is used as a symbol of the royal family and authority. This version of the figure is referred to as Krut Pha, meaning 'garuḍa acting as the vehicle (of Vishnu).' The National Emblem is also the Emblem of the King of Thailand.

In Hindu mythology, Rahu is a snake that swallows the sun or the moon causing eclipses. He is depicted in art as a dragon with no body riding a chariot drawn by eight black horses. Rahu is one of the navagrahas (nine planets) in Vedic astrology. The Rahu kala (time of day under the influence of Rahu) is considered inauspicious.

According to legend, during the Samudra manthan, the asura Rahu drank some of the divine nectar. But before the nectar could pass his throat, Mohini (the female avatar of Vishnu) cut off his head. The head, however, remained immortal. It is believed that this immortal head occasionally swallows the sun or the moon, causing eclipses. Then, the sun or moon passes through the opening at the neck, ending the eclipse.

Wat Traimit is a Thai Buddhist temple found in the Chinatown area of Bangkok. It is chiefly known for housing the world's largest solid gold Buddha figure, the Phra Phuttha Maha Suwan Patimakon. The image is also the largest solid gold statue of any kind in the world.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia