"The Thousand-Year Legend of Sikhoraphum Castle, Surin Province"
"The Thousand-Year Legend of Sikhoraphum Castle in Surin Province is a local tale full of charm, reflecting the sacredness, arts, culture, and beliefs of the people in Lower Northeastern Thailand. The story centers around the site of 'Sikhoraphum Castle,' known locally as 'Prasat Răngaeng,' an ancient Khmer religious monument that is nearly a thousand years old."
"History and Features of Sikhoraphum Castle"
"Sikhoraphum Castle is located in Sikhoraphum District, Surin Province. It is a Khmer-style stone temple."
"Sikhoraphum Castle is believed to have been built around the 17th Buddhist century (approximately 11th - 12th century CE) for the Shaivite Brahmanism religion, devoted to the worship of Lord Shiva. Later, the top of the temple at the southwest side was restored around the 22nd Buddhist century (approximately 18th century CE) during the Lan Xang art period, as evidenced by Pali inscriptions found at the site.
Architecturally, the temple consists of five brick sanctuaries without plaster. The central sanctuary serves as the main prang, all constructed on the same laterite base. A moat surrounds the complex on all four sides, with the entrance located on the eastern side."
"Another outstanding feature of Sikhoraphum Castle is the lintel above the doorway of the main sanctuary. It is intricately carved with the image of Lord Shiva as Nataraja with ten arms, dancing above the pediment. Beneath the arched garland motif are carvings of Lord Ganesha, the four-faced Lord Brahma, the four-armed Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Uma.
The door frame walls at the base are adorned with carvings of apsaras holding lotus flowers and dvarapalas (guardian figures) wielding clubs. These exquisite sandstone carvings on the lintel and wall pillars are considered some of the finest examples of Khmer stone carving in Northeastern Thailand."
"Legends of Sikhoraphum Castle"
"Among the many legends passed down through generations by the local people, one of the most well-known is the 'Legend of the Naga and the Lord of the City.'"
"The Legend of the Naga and the Lord of the City"
"The legend goes that once there was a great city ruler who governed this region, and he had a daughter of extraordinary beauty, renowned even in the underwater world. A Naga, the serpent king of the subterranean realm, became enamored with her beauty and transformed into a handsome young man to come to the human world.
He joined the construction of the castle with human craftsmen, setting a condition that he would help complete the castle in a single night in exchange for marrying the daughter. The city ruler agreed but devised a trick to prevent the Naga from fulfilling his promise. When the Naga was close to finishing the castle, the townspeople created noise by beating drums and gongs and lit fires to make it appear as dawn was near.
Realizing he had been deceived, the Naga fled back to his underwater city, leaving the castle incomplete, just as it remains today."
"Beliefs and Sacred Significance of Sikhoraphum Castle, Surin Province"
"Sikhoraphum Castle, besides being an important historical monument, also serves as a spiritual center for the local people. It embodies religious beliefs and mysterious powers that have been passed down for hundreds of years."
"Local Beliefs"
"Sacred Powers from the Gods"
"Sikhoraphum Castle was once a Hindu temple of the Shaivite sect, dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. Locals believe that, even after many years, the divine spirit of the deity still resides here, continuing to protect the site."
"Mysterious Sounds at Night"
"Some locals say that on certain quiet nights, one may hear sounds resembling gongs, drums, or chants, similar to those from ancient rituals. These are believed to be the voices of deities or spirits communicating with the human world."
"Guardian Spirit"
"It is believed that within Sikhoraphum Castle dwell the spirits of the craftsmen, as well as celestial beings and Nagas who helped construct the temple. Those with a pure heart who make sincere wishes are said to receive blessings."
"Mysterious Light Above the Castle"
"Some people have reported seeing mysterious lights hovering above the top of the castle at night. These are believed to be a supernatural phenomenon, symbolizing the sacred powers that still reside there."
"Worship and Traditions"
"Blessing and Worship Ceremonies"
"Locals often hold worship and offering ceremonies at Sikhoraphum Castle, especially during festivals or merit-making events, such as the annual Light and Sound Show at Sikhoraphum Castle. These ceremonies are conducted to pay respect and seek blessings for peace and prosperity in the community."
"Offering Items"
"These offerings include flower trays with incense and candles, perfumed water, popped rice with flower petals, and sometimes ceremonial dances performed by local dancers to pay respect to the sacred entities."
"Every year, the Sikhoraphum Castle Worship Festival is held, combining merit-making with cultural performances such as light and sound shows and ceremonial dances. The festival is conducted to pay respect to the sacred entities and to preserve local cultural traditions. Local residents participate wholeheartedly, driven by devotion and love for their homeland."
"In summary, Sikhoraphum Castle is not only an ancient site of architectural beauty but also a spiritual center and a symbol of belief for the people of Lower Isan. It reflects the deep connection between humans, religion, legends, and local ways of life. As a spiritual heritage, it is truly worth preserving and passing on to future generations."
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