The Emerald Buddha, also known as Phra Phuttha Maha Mani Rattana Patimakon, has left a trail of mystery and awe throughout history. It is only 26 inches tall and 18 inches wide, this intricately detailed statue is an amazing work of ancient craftsmanship. Its green jade glows drawing millions of Buddhists and tourists to admire its spiritual importance at Wat Phra Kaeo temple in Bangkok.
The Emerald Buddha has been believed to bring prosperity to those who possess it, making it a tempting prize for kings and rulers across the region of Siam. As with many ancient artefacts, the age of the Emerald Buddha adds to its importance. Buddhists believe that the older a Buddha image is, the more powerful it becomes.
Origins
The exact origins of the Emerald Buddha remain unknown and there are confusing myths and legends surrounding its story. Its journey, however, proves how spirituality and the human quest for divine connection can go on for centuries. Its travels have taken it from the ancient city of Pataliputra in India, where it was said to have been sculpted by the sage Nagasena in 43 BCE, to Sri Lanka and Cambodia, where it may have been kept in Angkor Wat temple.
When the Thais attacked Angkor Wat in 1432, the Emerald Buddha was taken to Ayutthaya before eventually reaching Chiang Rai, where it was hidden by the ruler of the city until its discovery in 1434.[1]
Initial journey through Northern Thailand
Apparently, in 1434, a lightning strike hit Wat Pa Yeah temple causing some plaster to crack and flake off, the hidden Buddha of emerald green was then revealed. The discovery was made by a monk named Phra Keo who brought to life once again.
Upon hearing the news, King Samfangkaen of Lan Na, who ruled the northern region, wanted to bring the emerald statue to Chiang Mai. He sent an elephant to retrieve the statue and bring it to Chiang Mai. However, on its way back, when it reached a crossroads, the elephant turned towards Lampang instead of Chiang Mai. After three attempts, it was decided to let fate take its course, and let the statue be taken to Lampang.[2] The statue was here in Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao for 32 years.
In 1468, the king of Chiang Mai died and his successor ordered the Emerald Buddha to be brought to the capital city, which in those days was Chiang Mai. This time, it seemed the statue's guardian spirits were agreeable, and the Buddha was successfully brought to Chiang Mai and installed at Wat Chedi Luang.
