History of Phra Rahu

 

Phra Rahu 

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Origin and Mythology:

Phra Rahu originates from Hindu and Vedic cosmology, later integrated into Thai Buddhist beliefs. According to the myth from the Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean), Rahu was originally a giant asura (demon) who disguised himself as a god to drink the nectar of immortality (amrita). The sun god Surya and the moon god Chandra saw through his disguise and alerted Lord Vishnu, who swiftly beheaded the asura with his Sudarshana chakra.

However, because the demon had already sipped the nectar, his head became immortal, while the body died. This head became Rahu, and the body became Ketu, both of which are shadow planets in Indian and Thai astrology.

From then on, Rahu chases the sun and moon across the sky in revenge, periodically swallowing them, which causes eclipses.

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Role in Thai Belief:

In Thai cosmology, Phra Rahu is considered a shadow planet with strong astrological influence. He is believed to bring about sudden changes, challenges, and reversals of fortune.

However, he is not inherently evil. Instead, Rahu is seen as a karmic force that tests people’s resilience and purifies misfortune. If propitiated properly, he can bring:

• Protection from enemies

• Sudden wealth or windfalls

• Breakthroughs after periods of darkness

• Clearing of bad planetary alignments 

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Iconography:

Phra Rahu is typically depicted as:

• A black-skinned deity, often without a body, representing the head only

• Fanged, with a fierce expression

• Holding or swallowing the moon or sometimes the sun

• Sometimes seated on a mythical creature or cloud, holding a trident or mace

He is usually surrounded by cosmic motifs, including stars, the moon, and yantras related to astrology.

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Amulet Significance:

Phra Rahu amulets are popular among those facing:

• Misfortune due to bad astrology (ดวงตก)

• Business downturns or legal problems

• Black magic or gossip from enemies

• Major life transitions or karmic setbacks

Common forms include:

• Rian Rahu – medallions with Rahu swallowing the moon

• Takrut Rahu – metal scrolls inscribed with Rahu katha

• Images in gemstone, black lacquer, or alpaca alloy

• Rahu Omchan coins (swallowing moon) created by temples like Wat Srisathong or Wat Sam Ngam

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Famous Temples Associated with Phra Rahu:

1. Wat Srisathong (Nakhon Pathom) – the most well-known temple for Rahu worship in Thailand

2. Wat Sam Ngam (Nakhon Pathom) – also produces Phra Rahu amulets blessed by LP Tae

3. Wat Traimit (Bangkok) – hosts special Rahu chanting rituals

4. Wat Bang Khan (Nakhon Si Thammarat) – occasional Rahu-related releases

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Rituals and Offerings:

Phra Rahu is traditionally worshipped on:

• Wednesday nights after 6 PM

• Eclipse days (solar or lunar)

• Specific Rahu transit days in Thai astrology

Offerings typically include:

• Black foods: black jelly, black coffee, black rice, black beans

• 8 types of black-colored items (symbolizing absorption of misfortune)

• Rahu katha chanting 

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Astrological Importance:

In Thai astrology, Rahu is known as the 8th celestial influence (ดาวราหู) and is associated with:

• House of Karma

• Sudden events, fame, scandal, and fortune

• Temptation and spiritual tests

• Planetary cycles (e.g. 18-year Rahu return)

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Final Notes:

Phra Rahu is a complex, powerful, and highly respected deity in Thai spiritual tradition. Though associated with trials and shadow energy, when properly honored, he becomes a guardian and remover of deep karmic obstacles, leading to personal breakthroughs and blessings.