A parade that crosses the river and wades through fire (Thailand Local Custom)

A PARADE THAT CROSSES THE RIVER AND WADES THROUGH FIRE (Thailand Local Custom at Pattani) .





Chao Mae Lim Ko Niew's palanquin crossing the river
   
   Leng Xu Giang shrine is the abode of the Goddess Chao Mae Lim Ko Niew. The shrine is located on Norhu Road, Muang District of Pattani Province. Each year on the full moon of the 3rd Lunar month (15 days after Chinese New Year), a grand celebration is held to honor her. People from all over who respect and believe in the Goddess gather to pay homage.
    In the reign of King Rama V, a leader of the Chinese community named Phra Jeen Kananurak commissioned a Chinese craftsman to make a statue of the Goddess Chao Mae Lim Ko Niew from mango wood. At the same time, the Leng Xu Giang shrine was built. The reputation of Goddess gradually spread and became a focus of worship for the people of Pattani, other neighboring towns and even visitors from other Asian countries.

    The Goddess is carried across the river and through fire as part of the belief that it will dispel the bad luck and evil spirits that haunt families. The Chinese therefore organise an annual celebration in order to implore the Goddess, and give her thanks for bringing protection and happiness.

Chao Mae Lim Ko Niew's palanquin crossing the river

Chao Mae Lim Ko Niew's palanquin crossing the river

Chao Mae Lim Ko Niew's palanquin wading through fire
    
    Early in the morning, a procession of Gods, flags and musical bands make their way through the streets, accompanied by rows of disciples. Lining both sides of the streets are altars set up by the faithful.
    The men of the town are eager to bear the Goddess' palanquin, since it is an opportunity to make merit, as well as being a great honor. Not everyone is lucky enough to be chosen. The selection process is determined by throwing 2 cowrie shells like dice : if one shell falls upside down and the other right side up, this means a person is accepted. If both shells land with the same side up, that person will not be selected. There are many people who help carry the Gods and Goddesses, normally each palanquin has 4 bearers with the other 4 to help take turn. Each palanquin bearer ties a red holy cloth around his wrist as a symbol of his duties.
     Men who join the fire wading ceremony must be pure of mind and body. Many of them stay overnight at the shrine to ensure that they are free from temptation and have a chance to be selected for the ceremony the next morning. Their courage derives from their strong faith that Chao Mae Lim Ko Niew will protect them as they wade through the burning fire with no harm.