Difference Between 2-Hand, 4-Hand & 6-Hand Phra Pidta
Understanding the symbolic and spiritual depth behind each form of the Closed-Eye Buddha.
2-Hand Phra Pidta
Symbolism: Classic form sealing the eyes — inner peace and mindfulness.
Purpose: Protection from danger, calming the mind, meditation support.
Best For: Everyday wearers seeking basic protection and serenity.
4-Hand Phra Pidta
Symbolism: Closes eyes plus ears / mouth — purifying vision and speech.
Purpose: Stops gossip, slander, black-magic interference.
Best For: Those facing conflicts, gossip, or workplace politics.
6-Hand Phra Pidta
Symbolism: Seals all six sense-doors — ultimate withdrawal from negativity.
Purpose: Maximum protection, wealth attraction, karmic purification.
Best For: Business owners, travellers, collectors seeking highest power.
Phra Pidta (พระปิดตา), meaning “the closed-eye Buddha,” is one of Thailand’s most venerated amulets. The gesture of closing the eyes represents withdrawal from worldly illusions and the cultivation of inner awareness. Across generations, artisans have crafted different forms distinguished by the number of hands — each signifying a deeper level of meditative control and spiritual defense.
2-Hand Phra Pidta (ปิดตาสองแขน)
The earliest and simplest form. Two hands cover the eyes, symbolising the restraint of visual temptation and attachment. It encourages mindfulness and detachment from greed or anger. Favoured by meditation practitioners and those seeking calmness, it provides reliable protection from accidents and negative energy.
4-Hand Phra Pidta (ปิดตาสี่แขน)
This variation extends the symbolism further — two hands close the eyes, while two others close the ears or mouth. In Buddhist teaching, the eyes, ears, and mouth are gateways of perception and speech that create karma. The 4-hand form therefore signifies restraint over what one sees, hears, and says — sealing four sources of defilement.
It is highly regarded for blocking gossip, slander, and psychic disturbances, creating a strong aura of peaceful authority. Monks such as Luang Phor Derm and Luang Phor Kron are known for consecrating such variants.
6-Hand Phra Pidta (ปิดตาหกแขน)
The 6-hand design represents the complete closing of the six sense doors — eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind. Spiritually, it symbolises full liberation from the external world, shielding the wearer from both physical and metaphysical harm. The six-hand form embodies ultimate protection, metta (慈愛), and maha lap (มหาลาภ, great fortune).
Collectors often regard these as among the most potent Phra Pidta, consecrated by masters such as Luang Phor Iam Wat Saphan Soong and Luang Phor Tim Wat Laharnrai.
Quick Comparison
| Type | Meaning | Strength | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Hand | Closes eyes — mindfulness, peace | ★★☆☆☆ | Beginners, meditation, calm protection |
| 4-Hand | Eyes + Ears/Mouth — moral restraint | ★★★★☆ | Workplace defense, gossip shielding |
| 6-Hand | Seals six sense-doors — ultimate protection | ★★★★★ | Business, travel, high spiritual defense |
Conclusion
Each Phra Pidta form carries a profound message: protection through mindfulness and moral restraint. The more hands the image bears, the more complete its symbolism of sensory withdrawal and spiritual power. Whether two, four, or six hands, every Phra Pidta teaches the same Dhamma lesson — to close the senses not in ignorance, but in awareness, finding peace and fortune through inner stillness.