Luang Phor Thuad: A Faith Network in Southern Thailand

This is a qualitative investigation with the aims of studying the current state of the Luang Phor Thuad faith network in Southern Thailand and obstacles to its success. Field research was conducted in three purposively selected provinces on the border between Thailand and Malaysia: Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat. Field data was collected by means of survey, observation, interview, focus group discussion and workshop from a purposively selected sample population of ninety individuals. Results show that modern community belief in Luang Phor Thuad is a result of the supernatural power and grandeur afforded to him by monks. There are four types of belief in Luang Phor Thuad: belief in his holy spirit, belief in his supernatural power, belief in vows and belief in worship. These beliefs are represented in two distinct ways: public and personal. The network of faith in Luang Phor Thuad includes schools, communities, government institutions and temples. Their organization of auspicious activities helps raise funds for temple restoration and maintenance. The largest obstacle when organizing activities associated with Luang Phor Thuad is their nature as a Buddhist religious representation in a predominantly Muslim society.