Friday, February 16, 2007

That's the spirit!

When Buddhism first arrived in Thailand (Siam) over 2500 years ago, spirit worship, or animism, was already widely practiced throughout Asia. Today, many of these animistic beliefs are intertwined with Buddhism and it is here that the Spirit House makes its entrance.
These unique, small houses can be seen in every prominent spot outside Thai business establishments, temples,and private homes. They provide an appealing shelter for the spirits, or celestial beings, who would otherwise reside in the heavens. These are benevolent spirits, they protect the home, gardens, and business of the owner.

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