Phra Pidta
Phra Pidta is a type of small Buddha image or Thai amulet. Its characteristic form depicts an arahant raising his hands to cover his face.
There are three types of Phra Pidta:
- The squatting type with closed eyes,
- The cross-legged type with hands closing all nine orifices,
- The cross-legged type with both hands covering the face but leaving other parts uncovered.
- Phra Pidta from Wat Tai Yan
- Phra Pidta Rae Bang Phai of Luang Pu Chan
- Phra Pidta of Luang Pu Iam
- Phra Pidta of Luang Pho Thap
- Phra Pidta of Luang Pu Nak
- Phra Pidta of Luang Pu Suk
- Phra Pidta made from sacred powder mixed with lacquer, known as the “Five Tigers of Chonburi”
- Phra Pidta of Luang Pu Hiang, Luang Pu Phu, among others.
History
According to tradition, Phra Pidta represents one of the chief disciples, Gavampati. It symbolizes deep Dhamma meaning, and devotees believe it can bring fortune, wealth, and prosperity. The closing of the nine orifices — called Maha Uth — symbolizes the state of Gavampati entering nirodha-samapatti, where the nine gates are shut, no longer affected by defilements. This represents the complete cessation of the taints, guarding against all dangers.The origin of Phra Pidta is believed to derive from Khmer amulet-making traditions, later adopted in Thai sacred art. Early Phra Pidta were cast in metal, such as those from Wat Tai Yan. Later, amulets were also made from sacred powder mixed with lacquer, as in the famous Phra Pidta of Luang Pho Kaew. During early Rattanakosin times, Phra Pidta became widely popular, with notable examples including those from Wat Plub, Wat Nang, Wat Thong, Luang Pu Suk, Rae Bang Phai, and Luang Pu Yim.