Post by Admin on Oct 9, 2017 20:51:57 GMT 7
Frequently Asked Questions
1 Where does the story of Guman Thong originate?
2 Who created the first Guman Thong and why?
3 What was the method used to create the first Guman Thong?
4 In what do the early accounts of Guman Thong relate to later superstitious beliefs?
5 What is the origin of the now firm belief in Guman Thong?
6 What is Guman Thong and how many different types are there?
7 What is the age and sex of my Guman Thong?
8 Why own a Guman Thong?
9 How should I first bring my Guman Thong into the house?
10 How often should I feed my Guman Thong and when?
11 Are there any special words I should use when giving or taking away food?
12 Is there a special katha I should recite when praying or giving respect to my Guman?
13 Can I own a Guman Thong if I already have a family?
14 Where should I place my Guman Thong?
15 In what direction should the Guman Thong face?
16 How should other children in the house address Guman Thong?
17 Should I buy gifts?
18 How does my Guman Thong communicate with me?
19 Can I move my Guman Thong and what should I do if I go away?
20 How do I know that my Guman Thong is living and which are the most efficacious?
21 Will my Guman Thong misbehave?
22 Can my Guman Thong spirit leave?
23 How can I set my Guman Thong free?
24 How do I know if my Guman Thong has been re-born?
25 Does my Guman Thong have a name?
26 Can I change the name of my Guman Thong?
27 How are modern day Guman Thong made?
28 Do Guman Thong lead lonely lives?
29 Can Guman Thong Transfigure?
30 How powerful is Guman Thong?
31 What other forms of spirit amulets are there?
32 Additional Resources
33 Where can I find more information?
_______________________________________
Where does the story of Guman Thong originate?
The origins of the first story relating to Guman Thong were from a 19th century work of literature "Khun Chang Khun Paen" . Khun Paen was a soldier, 400 years previous, a time when supernatural forces played an important part of traditional warfare.
Who created the first Guman Thong and why?
Khun Paen had wanted a protective spirit to watch over him in battle. To this end he cut the unborn foetus of his son from his dead wife's womb and took it to a temple to perform an occult rite in which he created the first recorded Guman Thong.
What was the method used to create the first Guman Thong?
He wrapped the child's torso in sacred cloth and roasted it on a fire whilst chanting ritual mantras and dark incantations to create the supernatural being with whom he could communicate.
The equipment required by Khun Phan included three candles, a tinder box, a protective thread, and some metal yantras (metal talismans inscribed with mystic symbols). He lit the candles and laid consecrated wood as a bed for the foetus. Then he put a powerful Visnu yantra on its head, a royal yantra beneath it, a Visnu yantra on its middle, and a Dharani yantra on the ground. He then set gilded posts at the four cardinal points, together with yantras and flags, and he tied the protective thread around [to ward off interferences!. He overlaid the posts with a canopy having a yantra of Indra's golden chains, as prescribed for such occasions. He took charmed Mergui wood and lit a fire beneath the foetus in order to kindle pure life in it.
As he sat reciting mantras as he exposed the foetus to the fire and warmed it throughout, turning it now on its front, now on its back, until, just as dawn broke, it was thoroughly dried. Then, as Khun Phan still recited the mantras, up rose Golden Boy and spoke, ready to do his master's bidding. He named the entity Guman Thong.
In what do the early accounts of Guman Thong relate to later superstitious beliefs?
It is still common Thai belief that when a mother dies whilst carrying a child, the spirit of the woman may become a frightening entity or a 'Phi Tai Hong Tong Klom' The power of the entity is increased through the death of two souls.
The cremation after such a death does not occur immediately in fear that the corpse will become a ghost.
In earlier times, the corpse was dug up and the foetus cut from the womb to be taken to a sacred area where it could be burnt. This ensured that the spirit of the mother did not try and retrieve her child. This ritual creation of the Guman could only be performed by an individual with arcane powers strong enough to control the supernatural.
The superstitions surrounding the spirits of dead women are quite extraordinary and often macabre. It is believed that the Phi Tai Tong Klom has the power to attract the opposite sex and oils produced from the corpse, 'nam-man prai' or female ghost oil can be used as a powerful pheromone. As recently as 1966 the Thai monastic order was embroiled in scandal after a monk was accused of burning a dead baby to create a Guman Thong and gather oil. The monk was defrocked.
What is the origin of the now firm belief in Guman Thong?
This episode of Sunthon Phu's classic is the origin of a now widespread belief in Guman Thong, the protective child spirit. Although we can assume that this type of supernatural being is only literary invention, many people believe in infant ghosts and the ability to warn those who nurture them of danger threatening the household.
What is Guman Thong and how many different types are there?
Guman Thong is a little boy with a topknot, wearing Jongraben (a traditional cloth rolled between legs and brought up to the back), nothing on top, wearing a sash of gold and diamonds.
The Guman Thong is in fact a spirit of a child that has been captured in the idol by a medium or monk that understands and has knowledge of arcane spells and incantations. It is thought that these spells are preserved by the spirits in the Himpan forest (known to us from Thai literature)
There are two types of child spirit – the spirit having fate and karma from a past life and the spirit without fate and karma. If a spirit previously had bad karma then it is their karma in this life to be exploited by practitioners of magic or controlled by withayathorn. (a guru of black magic) They are susceptible to become Guman Thong.
The other type of spirit is that has no previous karma and cannot become a Guman Thong. They will be re-born according to karma.
Apart from Guman Thong, there is also the Golden Gumaree, Gumaree or Gumareethong, essentially a female form of the Guman Thong.
Can Guman thong be evil?
There are essentially two types of Guman Thong, the first is the benign type commonly made by today's guru monks which has the ability to bring fortune and good luck to the owner.
However certain practioners of the black arts are known to have created variations specifically for evil purposes. As far as we know there are four types, namely; Guman Thong Pretmun, Guman Thong Pretdub, Guman thong Pretkong and Guman Thong Pretsoon. As a group they are often referred to as Pret Puti Ngan or Guman Pretprab.
These type of Guman Thong are usually made by inviting spirits of those individuals who have died in unnatural circumstances to inhabit the idol or image. Each of the four types has its own macabre or evil way in which it is used'
Guman Thong Pretkong and Guman Thong Pretmun are used to protect property, often by violent means which has been known to result in serious injury or even death. The only known protection against Guman Thong Pretmun is thought to be Wou Tanoo, wood used to carry corpses. Fortunately this type of Guman Thong is only effective within its own sphere. Guman Pretnum, however can exercise its power outside of that sphere, and is immune to almost all talismans.
Guman Thong Pretdub is known to be particularly lethal and is thought to be cold blooded killer. Unbelievably people today still dabble in the black arts, something we seriously recommend you avoid.
What is the age and sex of my Guman Thong?
Guman Thong are child spirits and as such are all children. All Guman Thong are male. However some Guman are female and are known in Thai as Golden Gumaree, Gumaree or Gumareethong
Why own a Guman Thong?
The prime reason that one may wish to own a Guman Thong is for business purposes, protection of assets, watching your home as a guard, requesting fortune and particularly lucky numbers for the lottery.
When you go out, Guman Thong will look after your house and your assets. He will make a noise by running around to mislead people that the house is occupied. Sometimes, it is known that some Guman Thong can transfigure as a big black dog, depending on the power of the monk that created the Guman. The power of your Guman Thong in such circumstances also depends on your karma.
For commercial purposes it is well known that Guman Thong will attract customers with invisible forces such as pulling their bodies, seizing their hands, grabbing them. Customers will be walking by your business and Guman thong has the ability to inspire them to enter by whispering in an inaudible voice in their ears.
Owning a Guman Tong is just a re-enforcement of the individual’s accumulated merit. ( Otherwise everyone would own one to become rich.) Guman Thong without doubt has the ability to help its owner become successful and achieve ambitions.
In short the Guman Thong has the power to bring its owner luck, riches and wealth.
How should I bring my Guman Thong into the house?
When we first bring our Guman Thong into the house we should place him in a suitable location and spend some time introducing him to his new environment in a loving voice.
We should feed our Guman Thong just the same way we would do any child. We should also worship our Guman Thong by lighting incense sticks and placing flowers nearby. It is said that Guman Thong favour roses in particular.
If we already own a Guman Thong then we should tell your existing Guman Thong that it is your intention to bring some of his brothers to live with him.
Where should I place my Guman Thong?
You should place your Guman Thong on a shelf, but not too high. Do not place him under the stairs, at the end of your bed, or an an alter with other Buddha images. The Guman should always be on a shelf lower than other Buddha images.
In what direction should the Guman Thong face?
You should not turn the face of your Guman Thong to face west
How often should I feed my Guman Thong and when?
Ideally you should feed your Guman Thong on a daily basis in the morning before anyone has breakfast. After cooking separate out his food, When giving him the food, you have to call out his name to ask him to receive the food. Don't forget to offer sweet drinks and candy as well.
It may not always be practical to feed your Guman on a daily basis, but you should do so as often as possible. If your wear a Gunman Thong amulet you should still invite him to eat food whenever you sit down to eat.
Inviting your Guman to eat will please him immeasurably and he will bring you good luck in return.
Are there any special words I should use when giving or taking away food?
Yes there are. The following incantation is usually used when inviting your Guman to eat:
Mama bari pu cha chan-du ja maha poota a-kunchaiya a-kunchami ae-himama mama
It is also good practice to pardon yourself when removing food. Typically when you remove a food offering from The Guman Tong you would place you hands together in respect and say ''Ugasa Ugasa, Phra wan dtu may'' Which loosely translated means ''Yourself say excuse me''
Is there a special katha I should recite when praying or giving respect to my Guman?
Yes there is and it is usually said just before bed time. Every temple will have its own Katha, for example Wat Sam Ngam , Dontoom District, Nakhon Pathom:
Namotassa Pakhawato Arahato Sammasambuddhassa (3 times)
Buddhassabucha Dhammassabucha Sangkassabucha Patipatibucha Pawantumae
Ugasa Ugasa, I worship the golden idol. May the golden idol come to be in my eyes, my mind, and my body. All merit I have done from my past lives, I am very pleased to dedicate to the golden idol. Then, may good luck from eight directions come to me everyday like the golden idol. If you want to achieve in business, please make a wish and pay respect to him for 3 times.
According to Thai literature most of the Kathas from the various temples are fully interchangeable and would be recited depending on your expections. Alternatively you could recite more than one.
Can I own a Guman Thong if I already have a family?
Yes you can but you should tell the golden idol how many people there are in your family and introduce everyone to him. If you have guests to stay with you, do not forget to tell him.
How should other children in the house address Guman Thong?
Other children in the house will naturally be inquisitive, and they should learn to address your Guman Thong as either 'Pee' (brother) or by name if he has been given one by the monk.
Should I buy gifts?
Those who want to have a golden idol to protect property or for business purposes should regularly worship and make wishes. If Guman Thong favours you or you prosper as a result of him joining your family then you can show your pleasure by purchasing small gifts such as necklaces and toys.
How does my Guman thong communicate with me?
There are a number of ways in which your Guman thong will communicate with you. If you have a sensitive and receptive mind you may find that he will whisper directly into your ears. The most common means is through your dreams. Almost all owners report contact this way. Your Guman will speak with you whilst you are sleeping.
How should I communicate with my Guman Thong?
It is difficult to communicate with your Guman Thong directly. The most common way is of course through daily prayer.
Direct communication can only be achieved by individuals that have a highly receptive mind, years of practice and meditation. Essentially your mind must be tuned to the wavelengths of the spirits that dwell in another dimension.
Some people report to be able to actually see their Guman Thong and it is said that these individuals share the same fate.
Can I move my Guman Thong and what should I do if I go away?
Yes you can, but you should always pick up the Guman Thong yourself. Some people will take their golden child out in the car whenever they leave the house or on holiday. If you do go on holiday and leave your Guman Thong behind, do not forget to tell him when you are going, when you will be back, and where all the food is and that he is invited to help himself. You should ask him to take care of your property in your absence and that he should behave himself
You can also invite your Guman to come with you spiritually. He will do as you bid and be responsible for taking good care of you.
How do I know that my Guman Thong is living and which are the most efficacious?
Not many monks still have the ability to create Guman Thong, and it is important that you only acquire a Guman Thong from a reputable master. Today there are unfortunately a lot of fakes and images created without proper ceremony. These Guman Thong do not have the ability to protect anything, and their ineffectiveness has caused some people to stop believing in the existence of real Guman Tong.
The most notable guru monks in recent times with this ability are:
Luang Phor Tae Kong Thong, Wat Sam Nagm
Ajahn Yaem, Wat Sam Nagm
Ajahn Sakorn, Wat Lahanrai
Luang Phor Tim, Wat Lahanrai
Luang Phor Hong from Wat Petchaburi
Luang Phor Boon, Wat Klang Bang Kaew
Luang Phor Cham, Wat Takong
Luang Phor poon wat Pailom
Ajahn Jook Wat Suan Laung
To create a Guman Thong the guru-monk must have specific knowledge and high level Smadhi to give the image life.
Will my Guman Thong misbehave?
Guman Thong are children and as such there is always a tendency to misbehave and interfere with other children in the house. You need to be firm and tell your Guman what is acceptable and what is not. Always recite your Katha before this exercise.
How can I ask my Guman Thong to grant a wish?
Guman thong can be asked to follow specific request by using the following katha:
“Kudchamahapooto Samanudsaso sataewago karohi pito wadjanaena sumpunnaena prasittiya.”
This incantation translated; “Guman Thong who has the power of angels and men, may you please obey my order.” After reciting this incantation, you could tell your Guman Thong what it is that you desire.
How do I set my Guman Thong free?
Setting Guman Thong free is an act of merit that can stop karma that is the cause of misfortune and bad luck in our lives.
In Thailand it is common practice in such circumstance to place faith in black magic and witch doctors. It is such belief that results in distance between the true faith which is Buddha and his teachings.
To set Guman Thong free essentially means releasing your association with the spirit world and the fears of their control over your life, fears of their presence in your house
To set your Guman Thong free requires that you tell him as his father or mother, in peaceful and loving words, that it is his time to be re-born and that his karma is over. Tell him that he can leave this idol and be re-born in a better place. Tell him you do this for love. Your words will make your Guman Thong very happy. Not only that, the cause of your own karma will be over.
After this you will need to bury your Guman Thong. Dig a moderate hole; place the idol in the hole along with flowers and other scented items. At the time of burial you should repeat again that you are burying the body to be re-born in a better place, and that before Guman thong departs he should accept the five Buddhist precepts, repeat after me from the first to the fifth. After that I will make merit and dedicate that merit you.
The day after you should visit the temple to make merit. Give food to the monks and dedicate merit to the spirit of Guman Thong.
Do not forget to cover the hole that you have dug and place fresh flowers in respect. This will help your Guman Thong escape the confinements to which he has been committed. Your Guman Thong may be re-born as an angel living beyond the control of withayathorn. The more merit you dedicate the better his chances of being re-born to a higher place. He may be re-born as a man but keep way from the magical arts and black magic.
Furthermore once you have dedicated merit you should yourself visit a monk to accept the five Buddhist precepts. Please think of the Buddha, his teachings and his disciples.. You should forever say “Buddhang Saranang Catchami, Dhammang Saranang Catchami, Sangkhang Saranang Catchami”
This same technique can be used for Rak-Yom’s idol, or Look Grok’s idol
Another way in which your Guman can be released is to float him down the river. Leave him to the angel of the river. When you float your Guman Thong make sure you provide flowers, joss sticks and candles. Remember the loving words, and that you are setting him free to be re-born to a better place.
You have realized that you as a person have no need to make use of Guman Thong but place your trust in the Triple Gems of Buddha, his teachings and Disciples provide the real sanctuary for the spiritual needs of a human being.
In short you either leave your Guman Tong with the Goddess of the Earth or the Goddess of the Water.
How do I know that my Guman Thong has been re-born?
You will observe that there is no sound of walking or running in your house and no whispering by your side. You do not see him in your dreams and there is no sign of their existence anymore.
Besides that you will feel no attachment left in your mind. Moreover, your mind is full of pleasure from merit because you are fulfilled with the Buddhist Triple Gems.
It is at this point you will know that your Guman Thong has been re-born in a better place. If you are ever offered a Guman Thong, you may accept and set his spirit free at a later time.
Can my Guman Thong spirit leave?
Yes if you fail to care for it properly. The monk creating the image will however request that the spirit enter the image and remain there.
Does my Guman Thong have a name?
Most guru monks will give their Guman Thong statues a name, but not all. However you can call your Guman Thong by any name you choose. (See below) It is not common practice to name amulets individually.
Can I change the name of my Guman Thong?
Yes you can. He will let you know if he is not happy with the new name. You can recite the following incantation:
''Namanungsamaso yuttato yuttata by the name of the sacred monks I will call you 'his name' Namungsuntungwiklungkarung''
You should be careful to choose a beautiful or lucky name...see below
What are popular names for Guman Thong?
There are a number of very popular names such as Udomdat, Gumjon, Udomlap, Udomchoke, Prasittilap and Prasittichoke
How are modern day Guman Thong made?
For those who believe in the protective powers of Guman Thong but don't wish to resort to such extreme and gruesome measures as employed by the historical Khun Paen, there are other ways to conjure up the protective child spirit.
Today guru monks create the Guman Thong amulets from various sacred materials such as wood from demolished temples, ivory, bronze and plaster and then through prayer and sacred language the child spirit is requested to enter the image.
Popular woods used to create modern day Guman Thong are from withered tress, and in particular the Star Gooseberry tree, as people believe the wood is sacred.
Not many monks still have the ability to create Guman Thong, but the most notable monk in recent times with this ability is Luang Phor Tae from Wat Sam Ngam and his disciple Luang Phor Yaem. To create a Guman Thong the guru-monk must have specific knowledge and high level Smadhi to give the image life.
It is thought that this knowledge is passed down through the spirits of the Himpan Forest. These spirits are known to be the guardians of this arcane lore.
Luang Phor Yaem for example is known to burn his Guman Thong. Through this process he is better able to control the entity. Finally a second spirit is invited to inhabit the idol thereby increasing its power. It is not known exactly what materials are used in the construction of the Guman Thong idol itself, but it is believed that it will undoubtedly contain graveside materials or ashes.
Sacred incantations are recited during the entire process including the final stage when the Guman Thong is painted gold and is blessed with the addition of Khmer spells to the body. The spells are written in Khmer, (Cambodian) because the characters are believed to have runic qualities. Luang Phor Yaem always names his Guman Thong in a similar tradition to Luang Phor Tae.
Below is a typical incantation used in the creation of a Guman Thong:
''Om suwanno piyakumaro mahapooto mahittigo suppatisaesuwattago suppakamaesukojaro suppachaenanunghatayae mahataechoprawattigo ruttanatayanupawaena ruttanatayataeyasa tewanung-ittipalaena kumarojamahittigo.”
A loose translation would be: “Guman Thong, King of the spirits, who has divine power, who can travel anywhere, in any direction and to anyone’s mind. I request that through the sanctity of the Triple Gems you are endowed with great power''
LP Tae was once asked about Guman Thong figure appearing on an amulet underneath the Buddha lotus seat, LP Tae replies, " Whatever form of a Guman Thong might be, it doesn't matter at all--because the most important thing is that how the consecrator monks bless it. "
It is thought that his Master, Luang Phor Tae would always ask Paya Mutjurai (the King of Death) for guidance in the choice of a suitable spirit that could be used for his Guman Thong. It was known that LP Tae had the supernormal power to see wondering souls of the dead that roamed the surroundings and especially souls of those young children.
Another famous monk of recent times is of course Luang Phor Tim of Wat Lahanrai. The method by which he created his now famous Guman Plaai is very well documented and somewhat macabre. His methods bordered on the original techniques employed for centuries until it was made illegal due to moral issues. This technique involves the use of ground bone ash, known as Guman Plaai.
This type of Guman Thong is thought to be the most powerful and requires a lot of dedication on the part of the owner.
Luang Phor Poon, yet another famous guru monk popular for his Guman Thong used an entirely different technique that did not involve any graveside materials or human remains. Through incantation he invites a spirit to inhabit an idol made of wood or soil. In this case the Guman Thong is created through the knowledge power of the master himself.
The characteristics of any Guman thong will depend entirely on the technique the master uses to create it.
Why is my Guman Thong is a bottle of oil?
You will probably have noticed that some Guman Thong are contained within small vials of oil. It is thought that the oil will both preserve the wood and provide the necessary life sustenance. If the oil evaporates, then the power of the Guman thong will diminish. This is not just any oil, but well recited sandalwood or bulb plant oil.
It is also common practice for the monk to add a small takrut or salika roll to the oil, thought to intensify the power. Salika birds are known for there beautiful voices and historically their tongues were used in amulets, known as 'lin Or' (golden tongue amulets), bringing additional charm to the owner.
Often the owners of this type of Guman Thong will smear a small quantity of the oil on their forehead to increase charm and attractiveness.
Do Guman Thong lead lonely lives?
Apparently not. As I understand Guman Thong do not live life alone.There are many Guman Thong and many groups. Their society is like a human society – they communicate and share experiences. The topics about which they speak are different to those of human children.
Evidently they talk about how to enchant, to recite magic incantation, to inspire people, to open doors, to protect, to sell, etc.
This knowledge is obtained from the withayathorn and the medium who teaches and trains them.
Can Guman Thong Transfigure?
Yes they can. It is known that some Guman Thong can transfigure as a big black dog, depending on the power of the monk that created the Guman. The power of your Guman Thong in such circumstances also depends on your karma.
How powerful is Guman Thong?
Do not under estimate the power of your Guman Thong particularly if it was consecrated by a recognised guru monk. Guman Thong has without doubt the ability to help its owner become successful and achieve ambitions. In short it has the power to bring its owner luck, riches and wealth.
In some rare instances it is also known that the Guman Thong spirit has the ability to possess a human body particularly those with very sensitive and superstitious minds. Although we stress this is exceptionally rare.
Can my Guman Thong enhance my charm and attractiveness?
Absolutely. You should use the following katha which you should recite three times.
“Matayataniyungputtung ayusa aekaputtamanurukkae awumpi suppapootaemanasumpawayerparimanung.”
After which pray in your mind: The mother loves the child in her womb with her life, let there be the same kind of love everywhere. After this make your wish. It maybe that you wish for admiration or the power to charm. With the power of the Lord Buddha your wish will be granted.
What about opposite sex attraction?
Guman Thong loves to please in this way: Use the following Katha:
''Piyotaewamanudsanung piyoprommanumuttamo piyonakasupunnanung pininsiyungnamamihung.”
Recite this incantation 3 times, and without doubt you will appear more attractive in other people’s eyes. To further increase your chances smear some Guman oil on your forehead.
What other kathas are there?
There are a number of Kathas that you can use for specific purposes:
What other forms of spirit amulet are there?
The child taken from the woman’s womb is called “Look Grok”. whilst a twin is called “Rak-Yom”, Peeyaimor (a spirit in a pot). Look Grok can be made from animals such as two tailed lizards, kittens etc. These animals are actually just a medium. The only difference is the figure – human or animal. These animals have their own fate and karma just as humans do. Before being born as animals, they were previously human beings.
1 Where does the story of Guman Thong originate?
2 Who created the first Guman Thong and why?
3 What was the method used to create the first Guman Thong?
4 In what do the early accounts of Guman Thong relate to later superstitious beliefs?
5 What is the origin of the now firm belief in Guman Thong?
6 What is Guman Thong and how many different types are there?
7 What is the age and sex of my Guman Thong?
8 Why own a Guman Thong?
9 How should I first bring my Guman Thong into the house?
10 How often should I feed my Guman Thong and when?
11 Are there any special words I should use when giving or taking away food?
12 Is there a special katha I should recite when praying or giving respect to my Guman?
13 Can I own a Guman Thong if I already have a family?
14 Where should I place my Guman Thong?
15 In what direction should the Guman Thong face?
16 How should other children in the house address Guman Thong?
17 Should I buy gifts?
18 How does my Guman Thong communicate with me?
19 Can I move my Guman Thong and what should I do if I go away?
20 How do I know that my Guman Thong is living and which are the most efficacious?
21 Will my Guman Thong misbehave?
22 Can my Guman Thong spirit leave?
23 How can I set my Guman Thong free?
24 How do I know if my Guman Thong has been re-born?
25 Does my Guman Thong have a name?
26 Can I change the name of my Guman Thong?
27 How are modern day Guman Thong made?
28 Do Guman Thong lead lonely lives?
29 Can Guman Thong Transfigure?
30 How powerful is Guman Thong?
31 What other forms of spirit amulets are there?
32 Additional Resources
33 Where can I find more information?
_______________________________________
Where does the story of Guman Thong originate?
The origins of the first story relating to Guman Thong were from a 19th century work of literature "Khun Chang Khun Paen" . Khun Paen was a soldier, 400 years previous, a time when supernatural forces played an important part of traditional warfare.
Who created the first Guman Thong and why?
Khun Paen had wanted a protective spirit to watch over him in battle. To this end he cut the unborn foetus of his son from his dead wife's womb and took it to a temple to perform an occult rite in which he created the first recorded Guman Thong.
What was the method used to create the first Guman Thong?
He wrapped the child's torso in sacred cloth and roasted it on a fire whilst chanting ritual mantras and dark incantations to create the supernatural being with whom he could communicate.
The equipment required by Khun Phan included three candles, a tinder box, a protective thread, and some metal yantras (metal talismans inscribed with mystic symbols). He lit the candles and laid consecrated wood as a bed for the foetus. Then he put a powerful Visnu yantra on its head, a royal yantra beneath it, a Visnu yantra on its middle, and a Dharani yantra on the ground. He then set gilded posts at the four cardinal points, together with yantras and flags, and he tied the protective thread around [to ward off interferences!. He overlaid the posts with a canopy having a yantra of Indra's golden chains, as prescribed for such occasions. He took charmed Mergui wood and lit a fire beneath the foetus in order to kindle pure life in it.
As he sat reciting mantras as he exposed the foetus to the fire and warmed it throughout, turning it now on its front, now on its back, until, just as dawn broke, it was thoroughly dried. Then, as Khun Phan still recited the mantras, up rose Golden Boy and spoke, ready to do his master's bidding. He named the entity Guman Thong.
In what do the early accounts of Guman Thong relate to later superstitious beliefs?
It is still common Thai belief that when a mother dies whilst carrying a child, the spirit of the woman may become a frightening entity or a 'Phi Tai Hong Tong Klom' The power of the entity is increased through the death of two souls.
The cremation after such a death does not occur immediately in fear that the corpse will become a ghost.
In earlier times, the corpse was dug up and the foetus cut from the womb to be taken to a sacred area where it could be burnt. This ensured that the spirit of the mother did not try and retrieve her child. This ritual creation of the Guman could only be performed by an individual with arcane powers strong enough to control the supernatural.
The superstitions surrounding the spirits of dead women are quite extraordinary and often macabre. It is believed that the Phi Tai Tong Klom has the power to attract the opposite sex and oils produced from the corpse, 'nam-man prai' or female ghost oil can be used as a powerful pheromone. As recently as 1966 the Thai monastic order was embroiled in scandal after a monk was accused of burning a dead baby to create a Guman Thong and gather oil. The monk was defrocked.
What is the origin of the now firm belief in Guman Thong?
This episode of Sunthon Phu's classic is the origin of a now widespread belief in Guman Thong, the protective child spirit. Although we can assume that this type of supernatural being is only literary invention, many people believe in infant ghosts and the ability to warn those who nurture them of danger threatening the household.
What is Guman Thong and how many different types are there?
Guman Thong is a little boy with a topknot, wearing Jongraben (a traditional cloth rolled between legs and brought up to the back), nothing on top, wearing a sash of gold and diamonds.
The Guman Thong is in fact a spirit of a child that has been captured in the idol by a medium or monk that understands and has knowledge of arcane spells and incantations. It is thought that these spells are preserved by the spirits in the Himpan forest (known to us from Thai literature)
There are two types of child spirit – the spirit having fate and karma from a past life and the spirit without fate and karma. If a spirit previously had bad karma then it is their karma in this life to be exploited by practitioners of magic or controlled by withayathorn. (a guru of black magic) They are susceptible to become Guman Thong.
The other type of spirit is that has no previous karma and cannot become a Guman Thong. They will be re-born according to karma.
Apart from Guman Thong, there is also the Golden Gumaree, Gumaree or Gumareethong, essentially a female form of the Guman Thong.
Can Guman thong be evil?
There are essentially two types of Guman Thong, the first is the benign type commonly made by today's guru monks which has the ability to bring fortune and good luck to the owner.
However certain practioners of the black arts are known to have created variations specifically for evil purposes. As far as we know there are four types, namely; Guman Thong Pretmun, Guman Thong Pretdub, Guman thong Pretkong and Guman Thong Pretsoon. As a group they are often referred to as Pret Puti Ngan or Guman Pretprab.
These type of Guman Thong are usually made by inviting spirits of those individuals who have died in unnatural circumstances to inhabit the idol or image. Each of the four types has its own macabre or evil way in which it is used'
Guman Thong Pretkong and Guman Thong Pretmun are used to protect property, often by violent means which has been known to result in serious injury or even death. The only known protection against Guman Thong Pretmun is thought to be Wou Tanoo, wood used to carry corpses. Fortunately this type of Guman Thong is only effective within its own sphere. Guman Pretnum, however can exercise its power outside of that sphere, and is immune to almost all talismans.
Guman Thong Pretdub is known to be particularly lethal and is thought to be cold blooded killer. Unbelievably people today still dabble in the black arts, something we seriously recommend you avoid.
What is the age and sex of my Guman Thong?
Guman Thong are child spirits and as such are all children. All Guman Thong are male. However some Guman are female and are known in Thai as Golden Gumaree, Gumaree or Gumareethong
Why own a Guman Thong?
The prime reason that one may wish to own a Guman Thong is for business purposes, protection of assets, watching your home as a guard, requesting fortune and particularly lucky numbers for the lottery.
When you go out, Guman Thong will look after your house and your assets. He will make a noise by running around to mislead people that the house is occupied. Sometimes, it is known that some Guman Thong can transfigure as a big black dog, depending on the power of the monk that created the Guman. The power of your Guman Thong in such circumstances also depends on your karma.
For commercial purposes it is well known that Guman Thong will attract customers with invisible forces such as pulling their bodies, seizing their hands, grabbing them. Customers will be walking by your business and Guman thong has the ability to inspire them to enter by whispering in an inaudible voice in their ears.
Owning a Guman Tong is just a re-enforcement of the individual’s accumulated merit. ( Otherwise everyone would own one to become rich.) Guman Thong without doubt has the ability to help its owner become successful and achieve ambitions.
In short the Guman Thong has the power to bring its owner luck, riches and wealth.
How should I bring my Guman Thong into the house?
When we first bring our Guman Thong into the house we should place him in a suitable location and spend some time introducing him to his new environment in a loving voice.
We should feed our Guman Thong just the same way we would do any child. We should also worship our Guman Thong by lighting incense sticks and placing flowers nearby. It is said that Guman Thong favour roses in particular.
If we already own a Guman Thong then we should tell your existing Guman Thong that it is your intention to bring some of his brothers to live with him.
Where should I place my Guman Thong?
You should place your Guman Thong on a shelf, but not too high. Do not place him under the stairs, at the end of your bed, or an an alter with other Buddha images. The Guman should always be on a shelf lower than other Buddha images.
In what direction should the Guman Thong face?
You should not turn the face of your Guman Thong to face west
How often should I feed my Guman Thong and when?
Ideally you should feed your Guman Thong on a daily basis in the morning before anyone has breakfast. After cooking separate out his food, When giving him the food, you have to call out his name to ask him to receive the food. Don't forget to offer sweet drinks and candy as well.
It may not always be practical to feed your Guman on a daily basis, but you should do so as often as possible. If your wear a Gunman Thong amulet you should still invite him to eat food whenever you sit down to eat.
Inviting your Guman to eat will please him immeasurably and he will bring you good luck in return.
Are there any special words I should use when giving or taking away food?
Yes there are. The following incantation is usually used when inviting your Guman to eat:
Mama bari pu cha chan-du ja maha poota a-kunchaiya a-kunchami ae-himama mama
It is also good practice to pardon yourself when removing food. Typically when you remove a food offering from The Guman Tong you would place you hands together in respect and say ''Ugasa Ugasa, Phra wan dtu may'' Which loosely translated means ''Yourself say excuse me''
Is there a special katha I should recite when praying or giving respect to my Guman?
Yes there is and it is usually said just before bed time. Every temple will have its own Katha, for example Wat Sam Ngam , Dontoom District, Nakhon Pathom:
Namotassa Pakhawato Arahato Sammasambuddhassa (3 times)
Buddhassabucha Dhammassabucha Sangkassabucha Patipatibucha Pawantumae
Ugasa Ugasa, I worship the golden idol. May the golden idol come to be in my eyes, my mind, and my body. All merit I have done from my past lives, I am very pleased to dedicate to the golden idol. Then, may good luck from eight directions come to me everyday like the golden idol. If you want to achieve in business, please make a wish and pay respect to him for 3 times.
According to Thai literature most of the Kathas from the various temples are fully interchangeable and would be recited depending on your expections. Alternatively you could recite more than one.
Can I own a Guman Thong if I already have a family?
Yes you can but you should tell the golden idol how many people there are in your family and introduce everyone to him. If you have guests to stay with you, do not forget to tell him.
How should other children in the house address Guman Thong?
Other children in the house will naturally be inquisitive, and they should learn to address your Guman Thong as either 'Pee' (brother) or by name if he has been given one by the monk.
Should I buy gifts?
Those who want to have a golden idol to protect property or for business purposes should regularly worship and make wishes. If Guman Thong favours you or you prosper as a result of him joining your family then you can show your pleasure by purchasing small gifts such as necklaces and toys.
How does my Guman thong communicate with me?
There are a number of ways in which your Guman thong will communicate with you. If you have a sensitive and receptive mind you may find that he will whisper directly into your ears. The most common means is through your dreams. Almost all owners report contact this way. Your Guman will speak with you whilst you are sleeping.
How should I communicate with my Guman Thong?
It is difficult to communicate with your Guman Thong directly. The most common way is of course through daily prayer.
Direct communication can only be achieved by individuals that have a highly receptive mind, years of practice and meditation. Essentially your mind must be tuned to the wavelengths of the spirits that dwell in another dimension.
Some people report to be able to actually see their Guman Thong and it is said that these individuals share the same fate.
Can I move my Guman Thong and what should I do if I go away?
Yes you can, but you should always pick up the Guman Thong yourself. Some people will take their golden child out in the car whenever they leave the house or on holiday. If you do go on holiday and leave your Guman Thong behind, do not forget to tell him when you are going, when you will be back, and where all the food is and that he is invited to help himself. You should ask him to take care of your property in your absence and that he should behave himself
You can also invite your Guman to come with you spiritually. He will do as you bid and be responsible for taking good care of you.
How do I know that my Guman Thong is living and which are the most efficacious?
Not many monks still have the ability to create Guman Thong, and it is important that you only acquire a Guman Thong from a reputable master. Today there are unfortunately a lot of fakes and images created without proper ceremony. These Guman Thong do not have the ability to protect anything, and their ineffectiveness has caused some people to stop believing in the existence of real Guman Tong.
The most notable guru monks in recent times with this ability are:
Luang Phor Tae Kong Thong, Wat Sam Nagm
Ajahn Yaem, Wat Sam Nagm
Ajahn Sakorn, Wat Lahanrai
Luang Phor Tim, Wat Lahanrai
Luang Phor Hong from Wat Petchaburi
Luang Phor Boon, Wat Klang Bang Kaew
Luang Phor Cham, Wat Takong
Luang Phor poon wat Pailom
Ajahn Jook Wat Suan Laung
To create a Guman Thong the guru-monk must have specific knowledge and high level Smadhi to give the image life.
Will my Guman Thong misbehave?
Guman Thong are children and as such there is always a tendency to misbehave and interfere with other children in the house. You need to be firm and tell your Guman what is acceptable and what is not. Always recite your Katha before this exercise.
How can I ask my Guman Thong to grant a wish?
Guman thong can be asked to follow specific request by using the following katha:
“Kudchamahapooto Samanudsaso sataewago karohi pito wadjanaena sumpunnaena prasittiya.”
This incantation translated; “Guman Thong who has the power of angels and men, may you please obey my order.” After reciting this incantation, you could tell your Guman Thong what it is that you desire.
How do I set my Guman Thong free?
Setting Guman Thong free is an act of merit that can stop karma that is the cause of misfortune and bad luck in our lives.
In Thailand it is common practice in such circumstance to place faith in black magic and witch doctors. It is such belief that results in distance between the true faith which is Buddha and his teachings.
To set Guman Thong free essentially means releasing your association with the spirit world and the fears of their control over your life, fears of their presence in your house
To set your Guman Thong free requires that you tell him as his father or mother, in peaceful and loving words, that it is his time to be re-born and that his karma is over. Tell him that he can leave this idol and be re-born in a better place. Tell him you do this for love. Your words will make your Guman Thong very happy. Not only that, the cause of your own karma will be over.
After this you will need to bury your Guman Thong. Dig a moderate hole; place the idol in the hole along with flowers and other scented items. At the time of burial you should repeat again that you are burying the body to be re-born in a better place, and that before Guman thong departs he should accept the five Buddhist precepts, repeat after me from the first to the fifth. After that I will make merit and dedicate that merit you.
The day after you should visit the temple to make merit. Give food to the monks and dedicate merit to the spirit of Guman Thong.
Do not forget to cover the hole that you have dug and place fresh flowers in respect. This will help your Guman Thong escape the confinements to which he has been committed. Your Guman Thong may be re-born as an angel living beyond the control of withayathorn. The more merit you dedicate the better his chances of being re-born to a higher place. He may be re-born as a man but keep way from the magical arts and black magic.
Furthermore once you have dedicated merit you should yourself visit a monk to accept the five Buddhist precepts. Please think of the Buddha, his teachings and his disciples.. You should forever say “Buddhang Saranang Catchami, Dhammang Saranang Catchami, Sangkhang Saranang Catchami”
This same technique can be used for Rak-Yom’s idol, or Look Grok’s idol
Another way in which your Guman can be released is to float him down the river. Leave him to the angel of the river. When you float your Guman Thong make sure you provide flowers, joss sticks and candles. Remember the loving words, and that you are setting him free to be re-born to a better place.
You have realized that you as a person have no need to make use of Guman Thong but place your trust in the Triple Gems of Buddha, his teachings and Disciples provide the real sanctuary for the spiritual needs of a human being.
In short you either leave your Guman Tong with the Goddess of the Earth or the Goddess of the Water.
How do I know that my Guman Thong has been re-born?
You will observe that there is no sound of walking or running in your house and no whispering by your side. You do not see him in your dreams and there is no sign of their existence anymore.
Besides that you will feel no attachment left in your mind. Moreover, your mind is full of pleasure from merit because you are fulfilled with the Buddhist Triple Gems.
It is at this point you will know that your Guman Thong has been re-born in a better place. If you are ever offered a Guman Thong, you may accept and set his spirit free at a later time.
Can my Guman Thong spirit leave?
Yes if you fail to care for it properly. The monk creating the image will however request that the spirit enter the image and remain there.
Does my Guman Thong have a name?
Most guru monks will give their Guman Thong statues a name, but not all. However you can call your Guman Thong by any name you choose. (See below) It is not common practice to name amulets individually.
Can I change the name of my Guman Thong?
Yes you can. He will let you know if he is not happy with the new name. You can recite the following incantation:
''Namanungsamaso yuttato yuttata by the name of the sacred monks I will call you 'his name' Namungsuntungwiklungkarung''
You should be careful to choose a beautiful or lucky name...see below
What are popular names for Guman Thong?
There are a number of very popular names such as Udomdat, Gumjon, Udomlap, Udomchoke, Prasittilap and Prasittichoke
How are modern day Guman Thong made?
For those who believe in the protective powers of Guman Thong but don't wish to resort to such extreme and gruesome measures as employed by the historical Khun Paen, there are other ways to conjure up the protective child spirit.
Today guru monks create the Guman Thong amulets from various sacred materials such as wood from demolished temples, ivory, bronze and plaster and then through prayer and sacred language the child spirit is requested to enter the image.
Popular woods used to create modern day Guman Thong are from withered tress, and in particular the Star Gooseberry tree, as people believe the wood is sacred.
Not many monks still have the ability to create Guman Thong, but the most notable monk in recent times with this ability is Luang Phor Tae from Wat Sam Ngam and his disciple Luang Phor Yaem. To create a Guman Thong the guru-monk must have specific knowledge and high level Smadhi to give the image life.
It is thought that this knowledge is passed down through the spirits of the Himpan Forest. These spirits are known to be the guardians of this arcane lore.
Luang Phor Yaem for example is known to burn his Guman Thong. Through this process he is better able to control the entity. Finally a second spirit is invited to inhabit the idol thereby increasing its power. It is not known exactly what materials are used in the construction of the Guman Thong idol itself, but it is believed that it will undoubtedly contain graveside materials or ashes.
Sacred incantations are recited during the entire process including the final stage when the Guman Thong is painted gold and is blessed with the addition of Khmer spells to the body. The spells are written in Khmer, (Cambodian) because the characters are believed to have runic qualities. Luang Phor Yaem always names his Guman Thong in a similar tradition to Luang Phor Tae.
Below is a typical incantation used in the creation of a Guman Thong:
''Om suwanno piyakumaro mahapooto mahittigo suppatisaesuwattago suppakamaesukojaro suppachaenanunghatayae mahataechoprawattigo ruttanatayanupawaena ruttanatayataeyasa tewanung-ittipalaena kumarojamahittigo.”
A loose translation would be: “Guman Thong, King of the spirits, who has divine power, who can travel anywhere, in any direction and to anyone’s mind. I request that through the sanctity of the Triple Gems you are endowed with great power''
LP Tae was once asked about Guman Thong figure appearing on an amulet underneath the Buddha lotus seat, LP Tae replies, " Whatever form of a Guman Thong might be, it doesn't matter at all--because the most important thing is that how the consecrator monks bless it. "
It is thought that his Master, Luang Phor Tae would always ask Paya Mutjurai (the King of Death) for guidance in the choice of a suitable spirit that could be used for his Guman Thong. It was known that LP Tae had the supernormal power to see wondering souls of the dead that roamed the surroundings and especially souls of those young children.
Another famous monk of recent times is of course Luang Phor Tim of Wat Lahanrai. The method by which he created his now famous Guman Plaai is very well documented and somewhat macabre. His methods bordered on the original techniques employed for centuries until it was made illegal due to moral issues. This technique involves the use of ground bone ash, known as Guman Plaai.
This type of Guman Thong is thought to be the most powerful and requires a lot of dedication on the part of the owner.
Luang Phor Poon, yet another famous guru monk popular for his Guman Thong used an entirely different technique that did not involve any graveside materials or human remains. Through incantation he invites a spirit to inhabit an idol made of wood or soil. In this case the Guman Thong is created through the knowledge power of the master himself.
The characteristics of any Guman thong will depend entirely on the technique the master uses to create it.
Why is my Guman Thong is a bottle of oil?
You will probably have noticed that some Guman Thong are contained within small vials of oil. It is thought that the oil will both preserve the wood and provide the necessary life sustenance. If the oil evaporates, then the power of the Guman thong will diminish. This is not just any oil, but well recited sandalwood or bulb plant oil.
It is also common practice for the monk to add a small takrut or salika roll to the oil, thought to intensify the power. Salika birds are known for there beautiful voices and historically their tongues were used in amulets, known as 'lin Or' (golden tongue amulets), bringing additional charm to the owner.
Often the owners of this type of Guman Thong will smear a small quantity of the oil on their forehead to increase charm and attractiveness.
Do Guman Thong lead lonely lives?
Apparently not. As I understand Guman Thong do not live life alone.There are many Guman Thong and many groups. Their society is like a human society – they communicate and share experiences. The topics about which they speak are different to those of human children.
Evidently they talk about how to enchant, to recite magic incantation, to inspire people, to open doors, to protect, to sell, etc.
This knowledge is obtained from the withayathorn and the medium who teaches and trains them.
Can Guman Thong Transfigure?
Yes they can. It is known that some Guman Thong can transfigure as a big black dog, depending on the power of the monk that created the Guman. The power of your Guman Thong in such circumstances also depends on your karma.
How powerful is Guman Thong?
Do not under estimate the power of your Guman Thong particularly if it was consecrated by a recognised guru monk. Guman Thong has without doubt the ability to help its owner become successful and achieve ambitions. In short it has the power to bring its owner luck, riches and wealth.
In some rare instances it is also known that the Guman Thong spirit has the ability to possess a human body particularly those with very sensitive and superstitious minds. Although we stress this is exceptionally rare.
Can my Guman Thong enhance my charm and attractiveness?
Absolutely. You should use the following katha which you should recite three times.
“Matayataniyungputtung ayusa aekaputtamanurukkae awumpi suppapootaemanasumpawayerparimanung.”
After which pray in your mind: The mother loves the child in her womb with her life, let there be the same kind of love everywhere. After this make your wish. It maybe that you wish for admiration or the power to charm. With the power of the Lord Buddha your wish will be granted.
What about opposite sex attraction?
Guman Thong loves to please in this way: Use the following Katha:
''Piyotaewamanudsanung piyoprommanumuttamo piyonakasupunnanung pininsiyungnamamihung.”
Recite this incantation 3 times, and without doubt you will appear more attractive in other people’s eyes. To further increase your chances smear some Guman oil on your forehead.
What other kathas are there?
There are a number of Kathas that you can use for specific purposes:
What other forms of spirit amulet are there?
The child taken from the woman’s womb is called “Look Grok”. whilst a twin is called “Rak-Yom”, Peeyaimor (a spirit in a pot). Look Grok can be made from animals such as two tailed lizards, kittens etc. These animals are actually just a medium. The only difference is the figure – human or animal. These animals have their own fate and karma just as humans do. Before being born as animals, they were previously human beings.