We have now come to the last topic of this series, and it is certainly one that many Thai men are interested in. Today, we will introduce some popular places where Thai men often go to pray in the hope of avoiding military service. During the annual conscription period, many Thai men carry amulets or make vows, hoping to avoid being drafted into the military. This has become one of the unique sights in Thailand. After all, there’s no harm in having faith and beliefs.
Mae Nak Shrine, Wat Mahabut
The Mae Nak Shrine, located inside Wat Mahabut in the Phra Khanong area, is well known as a place where people pray to avoid military service. Many people believe in the sacred power of Mae Nak, who is respected by local residents and those who have faith in her. It is believed that she shows mercy to young men taking part in the military draft lottery. Many people who have made vows here say that their wishes have come true.
There are two steps to making a vow:
1. Prepare two incense sticks, one flower garland, and one bouquet of flowers. After lighting the incense, call upon Mae Nak and her child and say: “My name is … I have come to make a vow regarding military service. I do not want to become a soldier. If, by any means, I am exempted from military service, I will offer a traditional Thai costume to Mae Nak and a set of clothes for her child as an offering.” (Also explain why you are unable to serve in the military.)
2. On the day of the draft, before leaving home, light two incense sticks outside the roof of your house and say to Mae Nak and her child: “My name is … I am here to fulfill the vow I made earlier. Today I am going for the military draft. Please help me avoid military service and return safely. I will come back to fulfill my vow within 7 days (or within 15–30 days).” If you are unable to fulfill the vow within the promised time, light two incense sticks outside the house and inform them that you would like to postpone it first.
Wat Luang Pho Khao (Wat Ket Kaew), Ang Thong
Wat Luang Pho Khao, also known as Wat Ket Kaew, is located in Ang Thong and is another place popular among young men who come to pray that they will not be drafted into the military. To make a wish, only nine incense sticks are needed before making a vow to Luang Pho Khao. If the wish is granted and the person is not drafted, he must fulfill his vow by performing a naked Chinese opera according to the number of rounds promised.
Wat Pho Kao Ton (Wat Mai Daeng), Sing Buri
Wat Pho Kao Ton, also known as Wat Mai Daeng, is a famous temple in Sing Buri and an important historical site. It is highly respected by local people, including men who are required to attend the military draft. As a result, Wat Pho Kao Ton has become one of the places where men of military age come to pray that they will avoid military service. To fulfill their vows, they carry water and pour it into the sacred well, which is also highly revered by local residents.
Peakhou Shanghai Foundation (Ong Sian)
The last place is Ong Sian of the Peakhou Shanghai Foundation, located in Hua Takhe, Lat Krabang. Those who wish to pray that they will not be drafted into the military should first explain why they are unable to serve. During the waiting period before the draft, they are advised to observe vegetarian practices, and if they have time, chanting prayers is considered even better. After their wish has been granted, they can return to fulfill their vow.
So, these are the 4 popular places where people pray to avoid drawing the red card. If you have tried any of them and your wish came true, feel free to share your experience. If you enjoy our articles, you can follow the ARM’S ARMOR website or the ARM’S ARMOR Facebook page.