BOMB TO BELL

Abstract

          This article aimed to study the parody named by outsiders “Phrae Parade Bomb” in which people living in Phrae province are often described as a joke that they took a bomb to the parade and it finally exploded; made all the villagers died. In fact, this parody has completely opposite meaning. During World War II, the bridge in Long district, considered the most important transportation, was bombed. Because of people’s faith in Buddhism and their local wisdom, they presented the bomb to the temple for using as a bell in order to signal the monks to do their praying ceremony. Additionally, the bell represents Buddhist merits since temple is the community center for villagers for merit - making. Besides, the bell are often used as a call to people as they can be heard even at great distances. In Thai culture, “Gong” has been used by people to announce the hours in daytime and bell has been used by Buddhist monks as the part of a sacred ritual. Therefore, bell has been regarded as an instrument of Buddhism declaration. People usually believe that persons who build the bell for Buddhist temples will be respected and famous both in their lifetime and next life. According to the mentioned historical facts of Buddhist bell, 3 bombs discovered in Long district, are currently considered historical sign and historic sightseeing. Phrae province is not only the small town, but also the town with many important histories and Buddhist beliefs hidden in its well - known parody.