Buddhist Doctrines in the Beliefs Concerning the Creation and Worship of Hoon Payon of Master Loy Phon-gein

Abstract

          This academic article aims to study the beliefs surrounding the creation and worship of "Hoon Payon" as practiced by Master Loi Pho-ngern, who is highly regarded for crafting some of the most popular and sought-after Hoon Payon among devotees. The study finds that the process of creating these effigies closely parallels Buddhist conceptions of the origin of life, particularly through the invocation of the Four Elements (earth, water, fire, and wind), which in Buddhism are considered components of the rūpa-khandha (the aggregate of form). Supporting evidence for this belief system includes the incantations used in animating or worshipping the Hoon Payon, particularly the Pali phrase “Na Ma Pa Ta”, which symbolizes the essence of the Four Elements. The inclusion of this elemental mantra is believed to endow the effigy with life, enabling its effective use by the devotee. The utilization of animated effigies can also be traced back to canonical Buddhist texts, such as Commentary of the Mahāparinibbāna Sutta, wherein the deity Vishvakarma (the craftsman god) creates an effigy to guard the relics of the Buddha. Furthermore, Hoon Payon appears in Thai classical literature, including Khun Chang Khun Phaen and Phra Aphai Mani, where they serve as warriors aiding in battle. Although Master Loi Pho-ngern’s Hoon Payon may resemble traditional talismans or amulets, they are imbued with Buddhist philosophical principles, particularly the notion that life arises from the Five Aggregates (khandhas), which themselves originate from the combination of the Four Elements. Thus, it can be posited that the Four Elements serve as the foundation of the Five Aggregates, and their integration gives rise life. As a result, Hoon Payon is perceived as animated and functional, akin to living beings.