What steps do people take when adopting a Kuman Thong amulet?
The adoption of a Kuman Thong amulet is a centuries-old Thai ritual that is still widely practiced today. A Kuman Thong is an amulet from ancient Thai folklore, a small boy spirit made from the ashes of a stillborn baby and dressed in typical Thai clothing. It is believed that the spirit brings protection and good luck to its owner. The adoption of a Kuman Thong is an important part of Thai culture and has its own distinct set of associated rituals.
The first step of the adoption process is to find the Kuman Thong. This can be done at a temple, sacred stone, pond, or graveyard, where it is believed that the spirit resides. After the amulet is retrieved, it is taken home, clean with holy water, and adorned in fresh clothing, signifying the beginning of the spirit’s new life with the adopter. Revere ceremonies are conducted on the day of adoption, and offerings such as flowers, incense, food, and candles are made in honor of the spirit.
The amulet then needs to be ‘activated’. This is done by sprinkling it with holy water as well making offerings to it while repeating special prayers. The spirit must be thanked for joining the family and promised protection from all harm. During this ritual, the spirit will be asked to bring good luck, health, happiness, and financial prosperity in its new home.
Once activated, the Kuman Thong should be treated with respect and cared for as if it were a real person. It needs to be fed regularly, and offerings should be made to it on auspicious dates, such as the spirit’s birthday and on important holidays. It is believed that neglecting the Kuman Thong will cause its spirit to leave, so caring for it is a major part of the ritual.
When the time comes to part ways with the Kuman Thong, proper sending off ceremonies must be performed. This is typically done at a temple or place that is sacred to the spirit. During these ceremonies, special offerings are made, and prayers are said to thank the spirit for its help and ask for its safe return to the spirit world.
Adopting a Kuman Thong amulet is an important part of Thai culture and superstition. For many people, it is an act of faith and devotion to their beliefs, as well as a show of respect to the spirit that they are taking into their home. While couple of others might regard it merely as superstition, the rituals of adoption still hold great value for many people in Thailand and serve to keep alive the belief in the power of the Kuman Thong spirit.
