What are Thai spirit houses for?

A spirit house is a shrine to the protective spirit of a place that is found in the Southeast Asian countries of Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines. Spirit houses are intended to provide a shelter for spirits that could cause problems for the people if not appeased.

Where are the spirit houses in Thailand?

San Phra Phum
The houses, called “San Phra Phum,” or shrine of the guardian spirit, are part of a Thai tradition of spirit worship. They can be found on corners in every Thai city and town and are seen outside high-rise office blocks, cafes and high-end restaurants, residential condos and everything in between.

What does spirit house look like?

A phi house, also known as a spirit house, looks like a colourful toy. It’s always decorated with flowers and surrounded with bowls of fruit and glasses, filled with red liquid. Every tourist guide mentions spirit houses.

Do people bow in front of spirit houses in Bangkok?

Regardless of age or social standing, almost every Thai person will wai (bow slightly with the palms pressed together), as they pass a spirit house to honour the resident spirits, and this demonstrates that this ancient tradition will be here forever.

What do houses look like in Thailand?

Thai houses usually feature a bamboo or wooden structure, raised on stilts and topped with a steep gabled roof. The houses from each of Thailand’s regions have distinctive styles, which reflect the people’s living style, including social and cultural beliefs or religious customs and occupations.

What are Ojibwe spirit houses?

Spirit houses in an Ojibwe Cemetery on Madeline Island, Wi. These houses rise two feet above the ground and feature a small hole in one end, along with a small shelf. The hole allows for the departed’s spirit to escape, and the shelf holds offerings for the departed to take on his journey to the spirit world.

What direction should a spirit house face?

A spirit house should be facing north or northeast if possible. The second thing is the location on the site that it is blessing. In a mirror of superstition in the western world, a spirit house should never be to the left of a doorway, and should never be facing a road or a toilet.

Where do you put a spirit house?

Spirit houses should preferably be located in front of a tree, and not to the left side of a door or facing a toilet or road.

What is a Native American spirit house?

Spirit houses, an Athabascan tradition, provide a place for the deceased soul to dwell during the 40 days it is believed to linger in this world. When a body is buried, stones are piled on the grave and covered in a blanket to provide symbolic warmth and comfort to the person.

Why are there so many ghosts in Thailand?

Thais are incredibly superstitious. From spirit houses lining the fronts of homes and buildings to haunted dolls believed to embody lost souls, Thai culture is full of supernatural beliefs and traditions. An integral part of those beliefs are ghosts, and in the spirit of the spooky season, we’re diving into the four most legendary Thai ghosts.

Are there any haunted sites in Thailand?

Check out some of the country’s (reportedly) most haunted sites. Ghosts are a big part of Thai culture. Many Thai people, if pressed, will admit to not only believing in paranormal beings but also to having seen at least one with their own eyes. Spirit shrines, amulets, and lucky symbols are everyday sights throughout the nation.

Why are spirit houses so popular in Thailand?

Many Thais believe that if properly appeased guardian spirits on our property provide necessary safeguard from malevolent ghosts or ill-intending humans. That’s why spirit houses are found nearly everywhere in Thailand—across styles, sizes, and materials, from simple unpainted structures to much more elaborate models carved out of fine stone.

Where to set up a spirit house in Bangkok?

Under a tree, like at my grandmother’s, is a preferred spot to set up a spirit house. Even spirits need shelter from Bangkok’s harsh rain and sun.