June 9, 2020

Literally translated as "dwelling of the guardian angel of the place," the San Phra Phum or spirit house is a miniature temple found in front of most Thai buildings, whether private or public. You'll spot them in the gardens of homes as often as you will outside a bank, hotel, shopping center, football stadium, or even near a sacred tree. But what is the meaning behind this animist-inspired ritual? Here's what you need to know…

The Tradition of San Phra Phum

In Thailand, it is common to believe in spirits. Those known as the 'Chao thi' are protective and benevolent spirits, while the 'Phi' are malevolent and wandering spirits. The former are considered the guardians of the soil, fields, trees, and homes. They are precisely why the spirit house exists. Indeed, the chao thi are responsible for keeping the phi at a distance. This is why every building must provide them with shelter so they can carry out their mission.

The spirit house can take two forms:

• San Phra Phom: this is the larger format spirit house. It is often confused with a mausoleum and includes a statue of the Hindu god Brahma.
• San Phra Phum: smaller in size, it welcomes miniatures representing the spirits.

Regardless of its form, the spirit house varies from building to building. To avoid making the spirits jealous of humans, the size and richness of the spirit house must be proportional to that of the dwelling it protects. Every day, before 11 a.m., the inhabitants must perform prayers and leave offerings to the spirits as a sign of gratitude and to obtain their protection. This can be incense, candles, flower garlands, food, or even beverages (which must obviously not be touched)…

A Tradition Rooted in Animism

The spirit house is the manifestation of an animist cult. As a reminder, animism is a belief that attributes a soul and consciousness to objects, plants, and animals. Although it is not Buddhist, this practice has found its place in Thailand, blending with syncretic Theravada Buddhism. Animism thus places the chao thi at an intermediate level between humans and Hindu deities, and they are considered servants of Buddha. This is not the only Buddhist country in Asia to have embraced this tradition, as it is also widespread in Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia.

Spirit Houses and Their Customs

You don't install a spirit house in Thailand the way you would hang decorative accessories! Its placement is governed by a series of codes and rituals. First, you should know that installation must be carried out by a Brahmin priest. During the installation ceremony, he will erect the sanctuary according to several elements. He will choose which day of the lunar calendar is most favorable for its installation, and he will also determine the location and orientation of the spirit house as well as details such as the colors used for painting. The spirit house should ideally be placed at an elevated position, near the main entrance. What is certain is that it should never be located in the shadow cast by the building it protects, as this risks bringing misfortune and bad luck…

When property owners move or when an old structure requires major renovation, spirit houses must never be destroyed! Indeed, one must never leave the spirits without a home. For such situations, there are places, such as cemeteries dedicated to these spirit houses… This shows how important the rituals linked to this belief are in Thailand!

Florine Dergelet

Culture and Tradition

Florine Dergelet

A web writer for over 10 years, Florine Dergelet is a traveler driven by the desire to discover the world with an open heart. Each of her articles is an invitation to slow down, to listen, to understand. For her, traveling is not about checking countries off a map, but about weaving connections (often invisible but always powerful) with places, peoples, and all manner of creatures from the animal kingdom. Her creed? To advise travelers with ethics, to awaken their consciousness about animal welfare, respect for cultures, and the importance of humble and sustainable tourism. Because the most beautiful memories are often born far from the spotlight, in the shadow of a trail, in the midst of a conversation, or in the quiet breath of a world we finally take the time to listen to…