An Analysis of the Tharanisan Scripture of Watkhaokaew Nakhon Sawan Province

Abstract

This research aims to 1) explore the concepts and beliefs regarding "Thoranisan" (earth essence) and 2) study the Thoranisan scripture of Wat Khao Kaew, Nakhon Sawan province. The qualitative research methodology focused on analyzing Buddhist scriptures, including the Tripitaka, commentaries, and related Buddhist literature, covering theoretical concepts and practical teachings associated with Thoranisan. The study aims to present the concepts of the Thoranisan scripture at Wat Khao Kaew, Nakhon Sawan, about Buddhist doctrines. The research findings revealed that: 1) "Thoranisan" originates from the Pali language and can be interpreted as the "essence of the earth." In contemporary Thai magical texts, chants or recitations performed during rituals for establishing shrines or constructing homes are termed Thoranisan Lek and Thoranisan Yai. 2) The Thoranisan scripture at Wat Khao Kaew is a palm-leaf manuscript inscribed in Thai script, measuring 5 centimeters in width and 40 centimeters in length, comprising 14 pages. Initially unnamed, it was later categorized as "Thoranisan" following archival classification. Unique to Wat Khao Kaew, the manuscript begins with homage to the Triple Gem and includes teachings from the Agganna Sutta, which address the origins of the world and humanity.