Thai amulets gained tremendous popularity in the 1800’s during the reign of King Rama V, but go back centuries. Tribal people probably wore or kept magical talismans, prior to the introduction of Buddhism as there are archaic images found in Thailand that are not Buddhist.

When the Thai Kingdom evolved and Buddhism was introduced, the former practices were not erased, as is often the goal of major religions that seek to dominate past practices. Buddhism is tolerant, and most amulets with pre-Buddhist symbols have been made by monks. A talisman or amulet is believed to counteract bad events, illness, black magic, evil spirits or misfortune such as accidents or assault.

Tiny molded Buddha images were often buried in spires with the ashes of famous monks and Royal persons and the older ones have been excavated and used as powerful amulets. Still other votive tablets have been manufactured in temples and given to favored parishioners (usually those who make donations) and are blessed or consecrated--and in this way money is raised for new temple buildings. These days almost every Thai wears or keeps multiple amulets, sometimes having a large collection kep