Phaya Yommarat is a deity who appears in many cultures and traditions, known by different names across various beliefs. However, throughout these legends, he is consistently described as the Lord of Hell, the ruler of spirits, ghosts, demons, Yama messengers, underworld guardians, and all beings of the underworld. In addition, many interpretations have been given to the name and significance of Phaya Yommarat. Today, we have gathered some of the names and meanings associated with this revered deity for your interest.
• The Royal Institute Dictionary (2011 Edition) defines the word “Yom” as “the deity who presides over the realm of the dead.” It further defines “Matchuraj” as “the Lord of Death, namely Phaya Yom,” and explains “Yommarat” as “the supreme deity who rules the underworld.” These definitions all point in the same direction, referring to Phaya Yommarat.
• SILPA-MAG.COM, a website dedicated to history, art, and culture, published an article by the Silpa Wattanatham editorial team explaining that Phra Yom (Yama), the guardian deity of the southern direction, is known by many names, including Phaya Yommarat, Phaya Yom, Phra Yommarat, Matchuraj, and Dharma Deva. To avoid confusion, the article also explains that a “Yama Messenger” is “one who escorts the dead to the throne of Yama to await judgment,” or, simply put, a servant of Phaya Yommarat.
• A discussion on the Dek-D website under the category of Dhamma and Religion states that this deity is known by different names according to various religions, sects, beliefs, and cultures, including Phaya Yom, Phaya Matchuraj, Phra Yommarat, Thepra, Thepphaen, and Baphomet, among others. These names are generally associated with the meaning “Lord of Hell.”
The author further notes that Phaya Yommarat appears in numerous religious and cultural traditions, including:
- Buddhism
- Greco-Roman religion
- Brahmanism and Hinduism
- Ancient Egyptian religion
- Ancient Persian religion
- Jainism
- Sikhism
- Gypsy traditions
- Taoism
- Shintoism
• Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, also describes “Phra Yom,” “Yommarat,” and “Matchuraj” as the deity of hell and death according to Indian religious traditions.
• In addition, many other sources provide similar interpretations of the name Phaya Yommarat, describing him as the supreme ruler over all underworld guardians and as the deity of hell and death.
It can be said that Phaya Yommarat is a righteous and virtuous deity who has been known by many names throughout history. He appears in numerous beliefs, religions, and spiritual traditions around the world. As the Lord of Hell and the judge of the souls of the deceased, Phaya Yommarat is deeply respected and revered by many devotees, who believe that he provides protection and safeguards those who place their faith in him from misfortune and negative influences.