A STUDY OF BELIEFS AND METHODS OF MAKING OFFERINGS TO THAO SURANAREE (YA MO), NAKHON RATCHASIMA PROVINCE

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to 1) analyze the beliefs associated with fulfilling vows to Thao Suranari (Ya Mo), and 2) examine the various methods used in the vow-fulfilling rituals for Thao Suranari (Ya Mo). This research was a qualitative study, with data collected through structured interviews using both purposive and accidental sampling methods. A total of 49 participants were selected, divided into two groups: five stakeholders and forty-four service recipients. Data were gathered from the public participating in vow-fulfilling rituals at the Thao Suranari (Ya Mo) Monument in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, and the data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. The findings revealed that beliefs surrounding votive offerings to Thao Suranari (Ya Mo) originated from the deep faith of the local people who regarded her as a sacred figure capable of granting success in various aspects of life. The methods of votive offerings were diverse, with the most common practices including the offering of nine types of fruit, the preparation of fresh betel quid, the performance of Phleng Korat (Korat folk songs), the presentation of marigold garlands, and ritualistic running around the monument. Recommendations from the study suggested that the findings can be used as guidelines for promoting and preserving local culture as well as providing valuable information for the development of cultural tourism in Nakhon Ratchasima Province.