IDENTITY IN RAIN PRAYING RITUALS OF PHIMAI DISTRICT, NAKHON RATCHASIMA PROVINCE

Abstract

The study aims to 1) present the various forms of the rain praying rituals of Phimai district from the past to the present, and 2) analyze the value of rituals towards the Phimai people for restoration and preservation of rain praying rituals of the Phimai people. The data was collected from review literature including books, articles, electronic research documents, and non-participant observations.

         The results of this study found that: 1) the rain praying rituals of the Phimai district consisted of chanting mantra-gāthā, ground molding, Nang dong (which is the figure that the spirits stay in), Hae Nang Maew and Dueng Krok Deung Saak (traditional performing arts) and 2) values related to social aspects from consisted were interaction, joyfulness, and unity among the participations. The cultural dimension was the preservation of the cultures and identities of the nation. In addition, the benefit of environmental aspects was raising awareness of using natural resources appropriately to preserve them for the next generation.