The Role of Music in the Mor Lam Thiamtham Ritual: A Case Study of Ban Non Sung Non Sung Sub-district Yang Talat District Kalasin Province

Abstract

This research consists purposes were 1.  to examine the role of music in the Mor Lam Thiamtham ritual as a key component of the healing process based on beliefs and local wisdom and 2. to investigate the changes in music within the Mor Lam Thiamtham ritual. This study employed a qualitative research design. The research instruments consisted of semi-structured interviews and non-participant observation. The target participants comprised five key informants, including a Mor Lam Thiam Tham ritual practitioner, a traditional musician, a patient and community leaders, all of whom were selected through purposive sampling. The data collected from documentary sources, interviews and observations were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that 1) Music constitutes a fundamental component of the Mor Lam Thiam Tham healing ritual, particularly the sound of the khaen (traditional Lao–Isan free-reed mouth organ), which functions as the principal rhythmic instrument and creates an atmosphere of sacredness throughout the ceremony. During the opening phase of the ritual, the music is performed at a slow tempo to foster a sense of tranquility and reverence toward the sacred. As the ritual progresses into the healing phase, the tempo becomes increasingly lively, encouraging participants to engage actively in the ceremony. In some cases, patients were observed rising to dance alongside the ritual practitioner. Such responses indicate that music plays a significant role in stimulating emotional engagement, enhancing psychological well-being and strengthening patients morale during the healing process and 2) The Mor Lam Thiam Tham healing ritual also plays an important role in providing emotional support to patients and their families. The ritual creates opportunities for community members to participate collectively in offering encouragement and support to the patients. This communal involvement helps strengthen patients confidence, fosters psychological resilience and enhances their motivation to cope with illness