Phra Kring

A Phra Kring is a type of small Buddha image traditionally crafted as a protective and healing amulet. It usually shows the Buddha seated on a lotus base, with the right hand in the Maravijaya gesture of victory over temptation and the left hand resting on the lap, often holding a small medicinal pot or fruit. Because its features closely resemble those of the Medicine Buddha, devotees commonly regard Phra Kring images as a representation of this healing deity.^[1]

Phra Kring amulet

Phra Kring 2395 - 2411

Phra Kring's origins are closely linked to the Mahayana Buddhist tradition, especially teachings connected with medicine and healing. Devotees believe that water in which the image has been immersed after prayers becomes holy water with restorative properties. The amulet is also regarded as a source of protection, helping to ward off danger, ensure safety, and bring good fortune. During the royal birthday celebrations of King Chulalongkorn, a special variant of this image called Phra Kring Pawares was used to prepare holy water for the Murtha Abhiseka ceremony.^[1]

The tradition of making Phra Kring amulets is thought to have begun in Tibet and China, and as such, these variants are known as in Thailand as Phra Kring Tibet and Phra Kring Nong Sae. From there, the practice spread into Cambodia, giving rise to forms such as Phra Kring Upakeng, Phra Kring Phanombakeng, and Phra Kring Phra Pathum Suriyawong, before eventually reaching Thailand and Laos.

Historical records indicate that Khmer artisans were making variants of this amulet known as Phra Kring Pathum in large numbers during the reign of the Emperor Jayavarman VII, and possibly even earlier under Jayavarman I. In Thailand, documented evidence places the start of Phra Kring production in the Rattanakosin period, though some oral traditions suggest the practice may date back further, perhaps to the Ayutthaya or even the Sukhothai era.^[2]

These amulets often contain small metal pellets that produce a jingling sound when shaken during chanting. They come in various sizes: large for household shrines, medium for producing holy water, and small for personal wear. The amulets are also referred to as Phra Chai or Phra Chaiwat. Traditional texts recommend crafting them from nine sacred metals: gold, silver, copper, antimony, tin, zinc, mercury, lead, and blue sapphire.

Among the most revered and rare of the Phra Kring amulets are those from Wat Suthat, created by the monk, Somdet Phra Ariyawongsakattayana (Pae Tissadevo).^[3]

Amulet types in Thailand

Phra Kring from Wat Bowonniwet Vihara Group

• Phra Kring Pawares: The first Phra Kring amulet created in Thailand, commissioned by Pavares Variyalongkorn.
• Phra Kring Bua Rop: Features a Buddha image seated on a base with seven pairs of lotus petals. It is known as the “Bua Rop bell” due to the lotus petal motif on both front and back.
• Phra Kring Pairi Pinat: The Buddha image sits on a similar lotus base with the right hand in the "Prayut Apologize" posture.^[4]

Wat Suthat Thepwararam Group

Phra Krings created at Wat Suthat are highly valued among collectors and devotees due to their perceived spiritual efficacy. They were initially crafted by Ariyavangsagatayana (Pae Tissadeva).

• Phra Kring Somdej Phra Sangkharat (Pae) Thepmoli: The first model made by Somdej Pae. Crafted from black alloy, the image features a round face, downward-gazing eyes, curled hair, and the Mara-vijaya hand posture. It sits on a base of seven pairs of lotus petals.
• Phra Kring Phrom Muni: Created during Somdej Pae's tenure as Phra Phrom Muni (1912–1922). Also known as the "Khmer Noi" (small edition) and "large edition".^[5]
• Phra Kring Chao Khun Sri (Santi): Contains sacred powder, strands of robe, and hair from Somdej Pae, crafted by Ajahn Nu (Niran Daengwichit). The outer surface includes hand-carved details resembling fish eggs.^[6]
• Phra Kring Chao Khun Sri (Sonthi) Praphamonthon series: Created by Chao Khun Sri between 1942 and 1944.
• Phra Kring Chakraphat: Created on February 1, 2003, during a royal time deemed auspicious for its blessing and consecration.

Phra Kring Wang Chan Group, Phitsanulok Province

• Phra Kring Naresuan: Created at Wat Wang Chan in Phitsanulok Province; the first batch of 500 was produced in 1964.
• Phra Kring Naresuan Wang Chan: Released in 1972 with approximately 5,000 units.
• Phra Kring Naresuan Phra Ong Dam: Produced in 1999 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Phitsanulok Pittayakhom School.