saab (สาบ)

Thai-Isaan. A kind of fresh water fish trap, used in places where the water is shallow. It consists of a round, long tapering wickerwork case, lined and braided with rattan rods. The top is open to enable a view inside to check upon the fish already caught. It has a funnel-shaped mouth with spikes to prevent the fish from swimming back out. See also lob, son, sai and sang. 回

saad (ศารท/สารท)

Thai. Any festival traditionally held at the end of autumn, as in ‘saad kanom koh’, an annual festival  held more or less during fall, when Chinese sweetmeat made of rice flour is eaten. The term is however often used popularly for any annual festival. See also krayahsaad. 回

Saadsada (ศาสดา)

Thai. ‘Savant’ or ‘religious prophet’. A name for the historical Buddha, the Enlightened One. See also Phra Samasam, Mahamuni and Mahalabamuni. 回

saai (ทราย)

1. Thai for ‘sand’. 回

2. Thai. Short for neua saai, meaning ‘Hog Deer’. 回

Saai Sanithawong (สาย สนิทวงศ์)

Thai. Name of a Siamese Prince, who was a contemporary of King Rama V. READ ON. 回

saak (สาก)

Thai. A pestle used to grind things in a mortar called krok (fig.). Its form is reminiscent of the physical shape of a praying mantis (fig.), which is therefore called takkataen tam khao in Thai. In Hindu mythology, a pestle named Musala, is an attribute of the god Balarama, the god of ploughmen (fig.), an older brother of Krishna and an avatar of Vishnu. 回

Saam Kok (สามก๊ก)

Thai for the story of the Three Kingdoms. 回

Saam Liam Thong Kham (สามเหลี่ยมทองคำ)

Thai for the Golden Triangle. 回

Saam Phraan (สามพราน)

Thai. ‘Three Hunters’. Name of a tambon, as well as an amphur of the same name, in Nakhon Pathom. The name derives from a story which relates that in the time when the Phraya Phaan was governor of Nakhon Sri Wichai, i.e. presentday Nakhon Chai Sri (นครชัยศรี) district in Nakhon Pathom, there was a wild elephant with a nice character and very clever, and which was suitable to become a war elephant, so Phraya Phaan sent out some hunters to catch it. However, no one was able to do so, until three hunters volunteered for the task. They dug a large pit on the path that this wild elephant regularly used to travel on. Due to the ingenuity of the three hunters, the elephant could be caught and offered to the Phraya. Hence, the local people named the area where the elephant was caught Saam Phraan. Also transcribed Sahm Phran. See MAP and THEMATIC STREET LIGHT. 回

saamloh (สามล้อ)

Thai. ‘Tricycle’. Thai for a rickshaw (fig.). If motorized it is nicknamed a tuktuk (fig.) after the sound of its engine. If it is a push-bike it is also called rot saamloh tihb (fig.). Often spelt samlor or samloh. The first ever pedal-driven rickshaw in Thailand was used in Nakhon Ratchasima in 1933. Before then, they were pulled by a person running on foot. See also rot thaeksih. 回

sabah (สะบ้า)

Thai name for the Entada rheedii, a large kind of sea bean. 回

sabai (สบาย)

Thai word and concept, that means a variety of things, such as ‘comfortable’, ‘at ease’, ‘enjoyable’, ‘happy’, ‘cozy’, ‘secure’, ‘safe’, ‘sheltered’, ‘homely’, ‘agreeable’, ‘snug’, ‘happy’, etc. and which is etymologically related to the term sappaya which means ‘a condition that is suitable for living or carrying out various activities with good results, consisting of the four factors (patjai sih) and dialogue, encompassing the 4 things that are necessary for human life, e.g. food, medicine, clothing and housing’. 回

sabbannu (သဗ္ဗညု)

Pali. ‘Omniscient’. Term in Buddhism for a person who knows everything concerning all of the Dhamma, he who has the all-perfect wisdom, sometimes translated as ‘One of Boundless Knowledge’ or the ‘Enlightened One’, and hence a designation used for any buddha, and especially the Buddha. 回

Sabbannu Phaya (သဗ္ဗညုဘုရား)

Burmese-Pali name for a just over 60 meter high Buddhist temple in Bagan, i.e. the tallest of all monuments in this ancient kingdom and former capital of Burma. READ ON. 回

sabha (सभा)

Sanskrit-Hindi term meaning ‘assembly’ or ‘congregation’ and often used to refer to a large assembly-room or hall, and as such typically found in combination with names of Hindu and Vedic temples, and Sikh gurudwaras. 回

sabong (สบง)

Thai. A sarong-like lower garment of a Buddhist monk, worn below the angsa and underneath the pahkahsahwapad. 回

Sachi (शची)

Sanskrit. Name of Indra's consort. She is the goddess of wrath and jealousy, and a daughter an asura who was killed by Indra. She is described as very beautiful and sometimes as having a thousand eyes. She is associated with lions and elephants (fig.). Sometimes transcribed Shachi and also known as Indrani. 回

Sacred Garlic Pear

Common name for a species of flowering tree with the botanical name Crateva religiosa and also commonly known as Temple Plant and Spider Tree. It is a deciduous tree that can reach a height of up to 15 meters and is native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves are trifoliate, often clustered at the ends of branches, shining above and pale below. The showy flowers are yellowish white, usually arranged in terminal clusters and they bear long, spidery stamens. The tree produces rounded, woody berries, which contain kidney-shaped seeds that are buried in yellow pulp. Various parts of the plant, including the bark, leaves, and roots, have been used in traditional medicine for their potential medicinal properties. It is  one of the various bodhi trees under which some of the buddhas known to Theravada Buddhism attained Enlightenment. In Thai, it is known as kum nahm (กุ่มน้ำ). See also POSTAGE STAMPS. 回

Sadayu (สดายุ)

Thai. A large bird in the epic Ramakien and the younger brother of Samphati. He has the face of the Garuda and the body of a bird with green feathers. He witnessed the kidnapping of Sita by Tossakan and courageously tried to intervene, but was critically wounded by the demon. Yet, it brought Rama the news of Sita's kidnapping and showed him her ring, as proof, then it died. It is sometimes associated with Tantima. Also Nok Sadayu. 回

Saddleback Anemone Fish

Common name for a species of anemone fish, with the scientific designation Amphiprion polymnus. This fish has a black body, with a yellowish face and two main white markings, i.e. one thick vertical bar behind the eyes, the other an often incomplete bar (or just a large spot) on its back and spreading onto the dorsal fin, which is reminiscent of a saddle. In addition, the anal and caudal fins are lined with white. This species is found only in the Gulf of Thailand. Like other species of anemone fish it dwells near the seabed, in areas with sea anemones. The Saddleback Anemone Fish is depicted on the last of four Thai postage stamps issued in 2006 to publicize the anemone fish of Thailand (fig.). It is also commonly known as Saddleback Clown Fish, which is alternatively spelled Saddleback Clownfish, and in Thai it is called pla cartoon ahn mah (ปลาการ์ตูนอานม้า), i.e. ‘horse saddle cartoon fish’. 回

Sadeua Chiang Rai (สะดือเชียงราย)

Thai. ‘Navel of Chiang Rai’. Name for the Chiang Rai City Pillar Shrine, which consists of a spot on a hilltop (doi) located in the northern part of the city of Chiang Rai, adjacent to Wat Phrathat Doi Chom Thong (วัดพระธาตุดอยจอมทอง), a Buddhist temple with a chedi that contains relics of the Buddha, hence the name Phrathat. Different from most other City Pillars in the nation, known in Thai as sahn lak meuang, the shrine in Chiang Rai is erected in open-air and consists of one large elevated pillar surrounded by various smaller ones. See also TRAVEL PICTURE and WATCH VIDEO. 回

Sadeua Mae Nahm Khong (สะดือแม่น้ำโขง)

Thai. ‘Navel of the Mekhong River’. Name of a spot in the Mekhong River considered to be the point where the Mekong River is the deepest. READ ON. 回

sadhu (साधु)

Sanskrit term used to refer to someone who renounces the secular world and strives for a religious life. READ ON. 回

Sadok Kok Thom (สด๊กก๊อกธม)

Thai-Khmer. Name of a Khmer sanctuary in Sa Kaeo, that dates back to the 11th century. It was built in red sandstone and laterite, by the order of Udayadityavarman II (1050-1066 AD) and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The sanctuary is best known as the original site of a 1.51 meters high stele, known as inscription K 235, that originally stood in the northeast corner of the temple's court and has inscriptions in both Sanskrit and ancient Khmer, and which is considered to be one of the most revealing writings from the Angkorian Period, describing the rule of twelve Khmer kings over the course of the two and a half centuries, giving account of some basic events of their reigns, as well as some major events, such as the relocation of the capital. The temple was formerly known as Prasat Meuang Phrao and is also called Prasat Sadok Kok Thom or Prasat Hin Sadok Kok Thom, and is sometimes spelled Sdok Kok Thom or Sdok Kak Thom. It has been portrayed on a Thai postage stamp, as part of a set of four stamps issued in 2009 to mark the annual Thai Heritage Conservation Day (fig.). The meaning of the word Sadok is likely ‘Lake’ or ‘Reservoir’, but the meaning of the word Kok is disputed, yet −as in Thai− it possibly refers to the general name for ‘sedges’, the family of rush or reed-like waterside or marsh plants, whilst Thom is a Khmer word meaning ‘Big’, as in Angkor Thom. Hence, the name is by some translated as ‘Great Reed Lake’. 回

sa-do kro (สะเดาะเคราะห์)

Thai. Ritual to get rid of bad luck, usually by sprinkling holy water on the head. 回

sadtah (ศรัทธา)

Thai. The belief in a religion. 回

Saeng Ahtit (แสงอาทิตย์)

Thai. ‘Sunlight’. Name of a demon character from the Ramakien (fig.). He is the second son of Phaya Khon (พญาขร) and a younger brother of Mangkonkan (fig.). He owned the Surakaan crystal ring, which Phra Phrom (fig.) gave him as a weapon, and that has the power to emit a deadly ray that can instantly age anyone into death. He had deposited it with Phra Phrom at the time that Totsakan (fig.) send him into battle against Phra Ram (fig.). When Phiphek (fig.) informed Phra Ram of this, he ordered Ongkhot (fig.) to transform himself into the yak Jitraphairi/Wichitphai (จิตรไพรี/วิจิตรไพรี), the younger brother of Mangkonkan and a half-brother of Saeng Ahtit, and told him to fetch the ring from Phra Phrom. When Saeng Ahtit was losing the battle against Phra Ram, he also send his −genuine− half-brother to go and get the Surakaan crystal ring from Phra Phrom, only to learn that he had already given it back to him earlier, thus discovering the deceit. Enraged about this treachery, Saeng Ahtit forced himself into a fierce battle with Phra Ram, but was hit by the latter's Phrommat arrow and died on the battlefield. He seems to be one of the demons that took part in the Churning of the Ocean of Milk (fig.) depicted in the sculpture at Suwannaphum International Airport (fig.). 回

Saeng Neon (แสงนีออน)

Thai name for an evergreen shrub with the botanical designation Leucophyllum frutescens and in Thailand commonly found as an outdoor ornamental plant. It originates from the US and is in English commonly known by a variety of names, including Texas Ranger, Wild Lilac, Purple Sage, and Texas Rain Sage, among others. 回

Saen Meuang Ma (แสนเมืองมา)

Thai. Name of the ninth king of the Mengrai (fig.) Dynasty who ruled the Lan Na kingdom from 1385 to 1401 AD. His consort was Phra Nang Tilohk Jutha Thewi (fig.), with whom he fathered Phra Chao Sahm Fang Kaen (fig.). See also TRAVEL PICTURES and LIST OF LAN NA KINGS. 回

Saen Phu (แสนภู)

Thai. Name of a nephew of King Mengrai and the founder of Chiang Saen, a former kingdom and present-day amphur on the south bank of the Mekhong River in Chiang Rai, established in 1328 AD. He later ascdended the Lan Na throne as the third king of the Mengrai (fig.) Dynasty who ruled the Lan Na kingdom twice, i.e. first between 1318 and 1319 AD and again for a second term in office between from 1324 to 1328 AD. His name is also transliterated Saenphu. See also LIST OF LAN NA KINGS. 回

saenyahkon (แสนยากร)

Thai. ‘Army’ or ‘military might’. See Royal Thai Armed Forces. 回

saffron

A spice derived from the dried pistils and styles of the saffron crocus, a kind of wild crocus with the scientific name Crocus cartwrightianus, originally from Southwest Asia, but now domesticated as Crocus sativus and cultivated also in other parts of the world, especially in central Spain's La Mancha region. It has long been the world's most expensive spice by weight, nicknamed Red Gold, and is used as a yellowish orange dye or colouring matter for food and textiles. Traijiewon or pah kahsahwapad, the saffron-coloured robes (fig.) worn by Buddhist monks, are not dyed with the costly saffron, but rather, at least in the past, with turmeric, a far less expensive dye. It occurs both dried and in powdered form (fig.). In both Buddhism and Hinduism, the colour saffron −or alternatively ochre− symbolizes renunciation. The name saffron allegedly derives from the Arabic word zafaraan, i.e.  ‘gold strung’, which is itself derived from the adjective asafar, meaning ‘yellow’. In Thai ya faran. 回

Sagaing (စစ်ကိုင်း)

Burmese. Name of a small former kingdom located on the west bank of the Irrawaddy River (fig.), across from Ava, which is located on the east bank, near present-day Mandalay, and can be reached by boat as well as by the old (map - fig.) and new (fig.) Ava bridges. It existed from 1315 to 1365 AD and was founded by King Athinkhaya Saw Yun (fig.), who was the son of King Thihathu, ruler of the Myinsaing Kingdom. After the latter had appointed Saw Yun's stepbrother as heir-apparent to the throne of Myinsaing, rather than his own son Saw Yun, who was made governor of Sagaing instead, Saw Yun had resented and rebelled against his father the King and consequently seized Sagaing and made it into a rival kingdom. After the split, the remaining part of the Myinsaing Kingdom became the Pinya Kingdom. Hence some source will say that Sagaing was ruled by a junior branch of the Myinsaing Dynasty. Today Sagaing is referred to as Sagaing Division and is an administrative region of Myanmar, in the southeast bordering Mandalay Region. The area is home to dozens of Buddhist monasteries and hundreds of stupas (map - fig.) in various shapes and sizes, both on hilltops (map - fig.) and in the valley (map - fig.), as well as some modern (fig.), a gilded replica of the Japanese giant Daibutsu Buddha (map - fig.), ancient ritual ponds (map - fig.), etc. See also TRAVEL PICTURES and MAP. 回

Sagar (စကား)

Name of a village in Myanmar's Shan State. READ ON. 回

Sahadeva (सहदेव)

Sanskrit. ‘With the gods’, though sometimes translated as ‘Equal to a thousand gods’. Name of one of the Pandavas, i.e. the fifth son of Pandu, and the younger twin brother of Nakula. His mother was Madri and his godly father the Ashwin twin Dasra. He was an excellent sword fighter, as well as a master of chariot and horse riding. 回

sahaprachachaat (สหประชาชาติ)

Thai name for the United Nations, an organization of which Thailand is a strong supporter, with much of its regional organizations based in Bangkok, including a total of 24 UN agencies that are active in Thailand (fig.), including UNESCO, the agency that is responsible for the choice and management of the many World Heritage Sites, of which there are many in the Southeast Asian region (map - fig.). Thailand actively contributed to UN peacekeeping operations and has ratified a series of UN human rights, labour and environment conventions and treaties. See MAP. 回

Sahatsadecha (สหัสเดชะ)

Thai-Pali. ‘Having the strength of a thousand ’. Name of a yak, i.e. a giant or demon from the Ramakien. He is described as having a white complexion (fig.), one thousand heads and two thousand arms. He was the ruler of the city of Pahngtahn (ปางตาล) and an ally of Totsakan, whom he helped in his fight against Rama, yet he was killed by Hanuman (fig.). In iconography, he is usually depicted with a chadah-like crown, with multiple layers of small white heads (fig.). In architecture, he is often portrayed together with Totsakan, a yak with a green complexion. Both stand at the entrance of Wat Arun (fig.), as well as at the northern gate of the Western entrances of Wat Phra Kaew (fig.). In 2001, he was depicted on a Thai postage stamp, as part of a set of four stamps with giants that guard temple entrances (fig.). He is also one of the 12 giants that stand at the check-in hall of Suwannaphum International Airport (fig.) in Samut Prakan. Also transcribed Sahasadeja and usually referred to as Thao Sahatsadecha (fig.). See also POSTAGE STAMPS, LIST OF RAMAKIEN CHARACTERS, and TRAVEL PICTURE (1) and (2). 回

sahlih (สาลี่)

1. Thai name for the Chinese pear or sand pear, of the genus Pyrus pyrifolia. It has succulent creamy-white flesh and tastes either sweet or sweet and a little sour. Its flesh is sandy and crispy or soft in some varieties. 回

2. A cake-like sweet, known as Thai sponge cake and also referred to as kanom sahlih. This light, yet rather dry cake, is made by steaming it in a style similar to au-bain-marie (fig.) and usual flavours include coffee or mocha, pandanus and strawberry (fig.). It is typically cut into small square blocks, each of which may be topped with some kind of edible garniture, such as a raisin or a piece of preserved fruit. 回

3. Thai for ‘trolley’. 回

4. Thai for ‘wheelbarrow’, more specifically referred to as rot sahlih. 回

Sahm Fang Kaen (สามฝั่งแกน)

Thai. Name of the tenth monarch of the Mengrai (fig.) Dynasty, who ruled the Lan Na Kingdom from 1401 to 1441 AD. He is the son of Phaya Saen Meuang Ma (fig.), the ninth king of Lan Na with his consort Phra Nang Tilohk Jutha Thewi (fig.), who thus became Queen Mother. See also TRAVEL PICTURES and LIST OF LAN NA KINGS. 回

sahmmanaen (สามเณร)

See naen. 回

Sahmphan Bohk (สามพันโบก)

Thai-Isaan. ‘Three Thousand Potholes’. Name of a large  solid area of rock with cliff-like sides and large rocky rapids along the Mekhong River in Ubon Ratchathani which features thousands of holes and puddles. READ ON. 回

sahn chao (ศาลเจ้า)

Thai. Generic name for any Chinese shrine, used alongside the term ahm. 回

Sahn Chao Beung Tao Gong-Ma (ศาลเจ้าปึงเถ่ากง-ม่า)

Thai name for a Thai-Chinese shrine in a Chinese Temple in Khon Kaen, which on its premises is also a shrine dedicated to Pu Khru Yen (ปู่ครูเย็น), who is also referred to as Yah Khru Yen (ญาครูเย็). He was an Isaan astrologer who lived in the 20th century AD, had knowledge of black magic, and could accurately predict providence. He was also a doctor of herbal medicine and a master of traditions. He moved from his native place in Nakhon Phanom and settled in Khon Kaen. He wore white clothes and a rosary around the neck, and is today worshipped by the people of Khon Kaen. WATCH VIDEO. 回

Sahn Chao Mae Kwan Im (ศาลเจ้าแม่กวนอิม)

Thai name for a Thai-Chinese shrine at the Kuti Jihn Community in Bangkok's Thonburi district (fig.), dedicated to Kuan Yin, the Chinese goddess of Mercy (fig.). READ ON. 回

Sahn Chao Pho Doi Thong (ศาลเจ้าพ่อดอยทอง)

Thai. Name of a Thai-Chinese shrine located on a hill overlooking the city of  in Chiang Rai. WATCH VIDEO. 回

Sahn Chao Pho Khrut (ศาลเจ้าพ่อครุฑ)

Thai name for a small and rather unique shrine tucked away in a short and narrow street in Bangkok's Phra Nakhon District, that is entirely devoted to the Garuda (fig.). Being the nation's royal symbol, as well as emblem of the Civil Service (fig.), the shrine is especially visited by government officials, who come here to make offerings and pray, especially to request a good result when taking a civil servant's exam or in order to ask for a career advancement. Although edifices and statues of Garuda can be found in many places and temples all over Thailand (fig.), a shrine devoted solely to this mythological half-man-half-bird is one of its kind. 回

Sahn Chao Pho Mae Klong (ศาลเจ้าพ่อแม่กลอง)

Thai. Name of a Thai-Chinese shrine in the tambon Mae Klong in Samut Songkhram, adjacent to the northern side of the local Talaat Rom Hoop (fig.) Railway Market (fig.). It is dedicated to the local guardian spirit, referred to as Chao Pho (fig.). WATCH VIDEO. 回

Sahn Chao Pho Ho Klong (ศาลเจ้าพ่อหอกลอง)

Thai. ‘Chao Pho Drum Tower Shrine’. Name of a Thai-Chinese shrine in Bangkok dedicated to the deity Chao Pho Ho Klong (fig.), a protective deity, who warns people for looming dangers by the sound of drumbeats. He is said to be the spirit of Chao Phraya Si Surasak (สีห์สุรศักดิ์), an important military leader from the Thonburi period, who in battle used to encourage his troops by beating on a war drum. After his death, people would sometimes hear drumbeats coming from his drum, whilst no one was near, and each time just before something bad was about to happen, as it were a supernatural warning sign. His spirit is thus believed to safeguard the population and warn them for looming dangers. This place of worship is especially frequented by by government officials and military staff, many of whom come here to pray for job positions. The shrine has several drums, similar to those formerly located in the Rattanakosin Drum Tower (fig.). In order to receive a blessing, visitors to the shrine are supposed to hit the main and largest of the drums seven times. See also ho klong and WATCH VIDEO. 回

Sahn Chao Pho Peung Thao Kong (ศาลเจ้าพ่อปึงเถ่ากง)

Thai. Name of any Thai-Chinese shrine dedicated to the Tae Chew deity Peung Thao Kong, who is also known as Pae Kong. Alternatively called Sahn Peung Thao Kong (fig.). Compare with sahn phra phum and sahn chao thih. 回

Sahn Chao Pho Seua (ศาลเจ้าพ่อเสือ)

Thai generic name for any shrine in Thailand devoted to Xuanwu, who in Thai is known as Chao Pho Seua, i.e. the ‘Tiger Guardian Spirit’. There are numerous shrines all over Thailand, and the one built in Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, is associated with a local legend in which the son of Yai Phong (ผ่อง), a resident of a certain village, was killed by a tiger and hence the villagers hunted it down with the intend to kill it. Yet, when Grandma Phong saw the beast, she felt pity for it and adopted the tiger as her pet, thus replacing her son. Seven years later, the old lady passed away and when the villagers cremated her body, the tiger jumped into the cremation fire and also died. Consequently, the villagers built the shrine in Phra Nakhon for the tiger that was so loyal to its owner (fig.). 回

Sahn Chao Tha Reua (ศาลเจ้าท่าเรือ)

Thai. Name of a prominent Thai-Chinese shrine in Phuket Province, known for being a place where people come to seek blessings for health and healing from Po Seng Tai Te, a traditional Chinese god of medicine. The shrine also includes a space dedicated to the worship of Kuan U, a legendary figure in Chinese history and mythology revered for his loyalty, bravery, and sense of justice. Kuan U was a general during the Three Kingdoms period in China and later became a significant deity in Chinese religious and Taoist traditions. In the shrine's courtyard stands a statue of Kuan U, reputed to be the largest in Phuket. In April 2004, the shrine celebrated its 125th Anniversary. WATCH VIDEO (1) and (2), and VIDEO (E). 回

sahn chao thih (ศาลเจ้าที่)

Thai name for a kind of spirit house with four, and on occasion six legs (fig.), that houses the chao thih, the animist guardian spirit of the land. Also transliterated sahn chao tih, sahn jao thee, saan chao thih, or similar. See also sahn phra phum and compare with Sahn Chao Pho Peung Thao Kong. WATCH VIDEO. 回

sahn lak meuang (ศาลหลักเมือง)

Thai. A shrine in Thailand housing the lak meuang, i.e. the sao inthakhin or city pillar (fig.). Every provincial capital has its own city pillar, believed to house the city's guardian spirit. It represents the centre of town and the point from which distances between cities are measured. See also MAP and WATCH VIDEO (1) and (2). 回

Sahn Peung Thao Kong (ศาลปึงเถ่ากง)

Thai. Name of any Thai-Chinese shrine dedicated to the Tae Chew deity Peung Thao Kong, who is also known as Pae Kong. He is a Tae Chew deity worshipped as the Chinese protection god for residences, locations and dwellings, i.e. to protect and maintain the place of residence, especially for a neighbourhood, a community or a village. He is associated with Di Zhuia (fig.), the Chinese protection god for residences, locations and dwellings concerning ones land, home or house, and as such the Chinese equivalent of the Thai chao thih, the animist guardian spirit of the land. A small altar dedicated to Di Zhuia may also be found in many Sahn Peung Thao Kong shrines. Alternatively called Sahn Chao Pho Peung Thao Kong (fig.). 回

sahn phra phum (ศาลพระภูมิ)

Thai name for a kind of spirit house with one leg, that houses the jawed (fig.), a Hindu household god that protects lands and homes. See also sahn chao thih and compare to Sahn Chao Pho Peung Thao Kong. WATCH VIDEO. 回

sah paper

Paper made from the paper mulberry tree. In Thai kradaat sah. See also ton sah. 回

sahrihrikathat (สารีริกธาติ)

Thai. A relic of the Buddha. See also Phramahathat. 回

Sahtsanah Phraam (ศาสนาพราหมณ์)

Thai name for Brahmanism. 回

Sa Huynh (Sa Huỳnh)

Ancient civilization that existed about 4,000 years ago in the region of present day southern Vietnam and which is considered the precursor of Cham culture. 回

sai (ไซ)

A kind of fish trap woven from bamboo and rattan rods. It has a spiked hole at the top to allow small fish and other aquatic creatures entrance. Once they are inside they are entrapped as the funnel-shaped spikes keep them from escaping. There are many different types of sai, named according their form, use or origin, such as sai song hee (northern dialect, trap with two holes - fig.), sai lao (Laotian trap), sai kad kung (shrimp trap - fig.), sai thon (enduring trap), sai nahm tao (water bottle trap), sai hua moo (pig head trap), sai khai jorakae (crocodile egg trap), jib sai (sip trap), sai loy (flaoting trap), etc. It is especially used in water areas with a strong current and in not too shallow water. They are often hung symbolically from the ceiling in commercial establishments, to catch business and fortune, rather than fish (fig.). This practice presumably derives from the fact that in Chinese, fish are called yú (鱼), a word with the same sound as yú (逾) meaning ‘to exceed’ and yú (余), meaning ‘surplus’. Hence, fish traps are symbols for good luck and used symbolically to catch a ‘surplus of money’ or ‘money in excess’. See also saab, son, lob, sang and tum. 回

sai baat (ใส่บาตร)

Thai. ‘Offering into an alms bowl’. Making merit by putting food into the alms bowl of Buddhist monks. See also tamboon sai baat (fig.) and bintabaat. 回

Saijai Thai (สายใจไทย)

Thai. ‘Thai Heart Line’. Name of a philanthropic organization under the Royal Patronage of Princess Sirinthon, that collects and manages donations to help soldiers, police and volunteers, who have been injured, disabled, or killed in the line of duty while defending the nation. See also POSTAGE STAMP. 回

saika (ဆိုက်ကား)

Burmese. Term for a type of tricycle taxi used in Myanmar, which is fashioned with a side car, in which two passengers can take place, sitting in a back-to-back position. Though the term for this Burmese-style rickshaw sounds somewhat like a local pronunciation of the English word ‘cycle’, it is in fact the Burmese transliteration of the English ‘side car’. Sometimes transliterated saiq ka. See also POSTAGE STAMP. 回

sai krok moo (ไส้กรอกหมู)

Thai. ‘Pork sausage’. Dish made of minced pork mixed with boiled rice and lard, stuffed into a pig's entrails and grilled over a gridiron. It is eaten with fresh sliced ginger, cabbage and whole but small chili peppers called prik kih noo. It is usually sold on street side footstalls and comes either as a sausage or as a string of small balls prepared in the same way. 回

Sailendra (शैलेन्द्र)

Sanskrit. ‘Ruler of the mountain’. A Mahayana Buddhist dynasty that ruled in central Java during the eighth and ninth centuries AD, and in Shrivijaya from the eighth to the thirteenth century AD. Also spelled Shailendra. 回

sailfish

See pla bai. 回

sain (ဆင်)

Burmese for ‘elephant’, and also transliterated shaing or sin. The term is somewhat reminiscent of the Thai term for elephant, i.e. chang. See also Asian Elephant and Kyaukse Sain Pwe. 回

Sainshin (ဆင်ရှင်)

Burmese. Name of a stupa in Sagaing, which consists of a compound of the word sain, meaning ‘elephant’, and the term shin used to refer to someone or something noble, similar to the Thai word Phra. The white and gilded zedi is built on a concrete platform adjacent to a small brownish-red sala. In the middle it is surrounded by floral motifs and figures of balu pan zwe, i.e. an ornamental motif on pagodas depicting an ogre (balu) clutching a garland with both hands. See MAP. 回

Saint Andrew's Cathedral

Name of an Anglican cathedral in downtown Singapore and the oldest Anglican site of worship in the nation state. READ ON. 回

Saint Andrew's Cross Spider

Common name for a commonly found orb-web spider, which actually comprises of two species, i.e. Argiope aetherea and Argiope keyserlingi, which are similar in appearance, but with the females of A. aetherea being generally larger than those of A. keyserlingi. Its common name, Saint Andrew's Cross Spider, derives from the characteristic zigzag, cross-shaped web decorations, known as stabilimenta, that form an X, usually with a hollow centre in which the spider positions itself by aligning its legs in pair with each of the four lines of the zigzag web decorations. Both species display sexual dimorphism, with females being considerable larger than males. Adult females grow to 15 millimeters in body length and their abdomen is oval shaped with transverse white, yellow and reddish-brown stripes and dots, whereas the thorax and head are brownish-silver. Males are dull brown in colour and without a pattern on the abdomen. Also lacking the bright colours of adult females, are juvenile females, who are rather pale brownish grey with just a few with dots, and reside on a web with a circular pattern of zigzag stabilimenta (fig.). The legs of both sexes are brownish with yellowish and beige bands, which are more frequent in females. 回

sai sin (สายสิญจน์)

Thai. A white thread used in various ceremonies in Thailand, but also in other countries of the region, such as Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. Its use has an animist aspect to it and besides being used in Buddhist rites, it is also found with most Thai hill tribe people and other minorities, who practice animism. It is symbolic for the sutra, the teachings of the Buddha. It is held by Buddhist monks whilst chanting mantras or put around a temple building (fig.), house or entire village in order to dispel evil spirits. In the seubchatah ceremony it spans the interior of the bot, starting from the main Buddha image in the building (fig.), and on other occasions it is tied around the wrists (fig.) as a talisman, or as a lucky charm with the power to protect (fig.). It is also used in funerals (fig.) and formerly when executing the capital punishment (fig.), as well as in wedding ceremonies (fig.). In India, a similar cord is used by brahmin priests and by devotees during certain occasions, and is known as a brahman cord (fig.). See also yajnopavitam, mongkon and mongkonlasut. WATCH VIDEO. 回

sai ua (ไส้อั่ว)

Thai. Northern Thai-style, long-coiled, spicy pork sausage, stuffed with a mixture of minced pork, kaeng kua chili paste and herbs, and traditionally grilled for many hours over a smoky coconut husk fire. The sausage is usually served in fairly thick slices, which are sometimes additionally deep fried. The word ua (อั่ว) is Phasa Neua and means ‘to stuff’. 回

Saivite

Name given to the followers of Shiva (fig.) or his cult, i.e. Shaivism, which has several different sects and which philosophy claims to encompass all facets of Hindu thought. Saivites often wear a pundra, i.e. a sectarian mark, usually a tri-pundra (fig.), which consists of three horizontal lines (fig.). Sometimes spelled Shaivite. 回

saivite cord

Thin brown thread worn over the shoulder by Saivite priests, crossing their chest. It is akin to the brahman cord (fig.) worn by brahmin priests. In Shaivism, its function is both for identification and to remind the wearer of his vows, but when worn over the right shoulder, it usually signifies that the wearer is performing a death ceremony. The sacred thread has three strands, which symbolize purity in thought, word and deed. See also yajnopavitam and sai sin. 回

saiyaat (ไสยาสน์)

See reclining Buddha. 回

sak (สัก)

Thai. ‘To tattoo’. In Thai tradition, tattoos usually have a protective purpose and may have a religious (fig.) or animist significance, and are thus worn by many a monk (fig.) or believer. READ ON. 回

Sa Kaeo (สระแก้ว)

Thai. ‘Crystal pool’. Name of a province (map) and its capital city in East Thailand, 237 kms East of Bangkok. READ ON. 回

Sakadagami (สกิทาคามี)

Pali-Sanskrit-Thai. Name of the second of the four stages of Enlightenment in Buddhism, i.e. the stage before Anagami, and in which the partially enlightened person has cut off three of the five chains with which the ordinary mind is bound, namely belief in self (atman); attachment to rites and rituals; and skeptical doubt. 回

Sakai (ซาไก)

Thai name for the Mani (fig.), an ethnic minority group of Negrito people found in the southern Thailand and in Malaysia, where they are known as Orang Asli. 回

sake (สาเก)

Thai. Name for the breadfruit and its tree. The species is related to the kanun and is also called kanun sampalo. Its scientific name is Artocarpus altilis and it belongs to the botanic family Moraceae. The fruit may weigh up to 2 kilograms and has a thick green peel that turns yellow when the fruit ripens. In Thailand it is mainly picked when still unripe and used as a vegetable in curries, or deep-fried and eaten as a snack. 回

Sakhon Yangkhiawsot (สาคร ยังเขียวสด)

Thai. Name of a puppeteer from Nonthaburi, who popularized hun lakon lek. In 1985, he founded the Joe Louis (โจหลุยส์) Puppet Theater, which was named after his nickname, i.e. Jo Liu (โจ หลิว). He gained royal support from Princess Galyani Watthana, who endorsed it to achieve Royal Patronage. He is habitually referred to as Ajaan Sakhon, with ajaan being a honorary title meaning ‘teacher’. He was born in 1922 and died on 21 May 2007 in Bangkok, less than a year after he won the Best Traditional Performance Award at the 10th World Festival of Puppet Art in Prague. 回

Sakka (สักกะ)

Pali-Thai. Another name for Indra, used especially in his position as ruler of Tavatimsa, in Thai also referred to as thao Sakkathevarat. 回

Sakkya (စကြာ)

Burmese name for Sakya. 回

Sakoh (สะกอ)

A significant subgroup of the Karen in Thailand. Also Sgaw. MORE ON THIS. 回

Sakon Nakhon (สกลนคร)

Thai. Province (map) and its capital city in Isaan situated 647 kms Northeast of Bangkok. READ ON. 回

saksit (ศักดิ์สิทธิ์)

1. Thai. ‘Sacred’ or ‘holy’. 回

2. Thai. Special spiritual powers attributed to certain Buddhist monks in Thailand. These monks, called Phra saksit, often transfer their powers (saksit) onto amulets and votive tablets (fig.) which are consequently considered a safeguard against evil influences and bad luck. Saksit also means ‘effective’. MORE ON THIS. 回

sakti (ศักติ)

Thai for shakti. 回

Sakun Kraison (สกุณไกรสร)

Thai-Pali. ‘Bird-lion’. Name of a mythological creature from Himaphan forest, that has the brown body of a lion and the beak, feet and tail of a bird, but unlike Kraison Paksah (the Lion-bird), without any wings. In appearance, it is in many ways reminiscent of Sang Praeng, a mythological lion with clawed feet and a feathery tail, but without a beak. Both creatures are of a different colour, but in art this is not always visible, especially in bronze sculptures. Sometimes transliterated Sagn Kraison or Sagoon Kraisorn. 回

Sakuntala (ศกุนตลา)

A Sanskrit drama written by the Indian poet Kalikdasa and translated into Thai by king Vajiravudh. 回

Sakya (शाक्य)

1. Sanskrit-Pali. The clan or tribe to which prince Siddhartha belonged. He became the historical Buddha. Also Sakiya. In Sanskrit Shakya and in Burmese Sakkya. 回

1. Sanskrit-Tibetan. One of the Red Hat Sects of Lamaism, i.e. Tibetan Buddhism, the other one being Nyingma, and whose monks during special ceremonies wear elongated crescent-shaped hats (fig.). 回

Sakyamuni (शाक्यमुनि, ศากยมุนี)

1. Sanskrit-Pali-Thai. ‘Sage of the Sakya [tribe]’. A designation for the historical Buddha after he was apprenticed by the brahman master Arada Kalapa and the sage Udraka Ramaputra. In Sanskrit known as Shakyamuni and in Myanmar usually referred to as Mahamuni, though the term Sakya also exists, but usually transliterated Sakkya. 回

2. Thai. Name of the principal Buddha image of Wat Suthat in Bangkok (fig.), which originates from Sukhothai. It was in 1808 transported by raft to Bangkok on the orders of Rama I, and is fully known by the name Phra Sri Sakyamuni. See MAP. 回

sa-la (สละ)

Thai. Fruit with the Latin names Zalacca and Salacca and a palm tree with a height of up to seven meters. The tree bears fruit throughout the year. The skin has the pattern of a snake's skin. This nutritious fruit grows in large tight bunches at the top of the tree trunk and its buttery coloured inside (fig.) tastes between a banana and a pineapple but has a rather unpleasant aftertaste. It is nicknamed snake fruit and in Indonesia and Malaysia is known as salak. A variation of the fruit is called ra-kam, but these are slightly shorter and more bulbous in shape (fig.) than the sa-la. 回

sala (ศาลา)

1. Thai. An open-sided gazebo-like shelter, hall or pavilion (fig.) of a generally permanent nature consisting only of pillars and a roof as protection against the sun and rain. It occurs within the precincts of a temple complex, on waysides and in fields (fig.). The roofed structure offers an open view of the surrounding area, and may be used for relaxation. As a compound or in composition with a name, the final ‘a’ is often dropped, as in sahn chao tih, and its pronunciation then changes to sahn (ศาล), because a final ‘l’ is in Thai pronounced ‘n’ (see Thai Consonants). See also POSTAGE STAMPS (1), (2), (3) and (4), and THEMATIC STREET LIGHT. 回

2. Thai. A hall or pavilion. 回

3. Thai. A public building. 回

Sala Chaleum Krung (ศาลาเฉลิมกรุง)

Thai. ‘Pavilion to Celebrate the City’. Name of the Royal Theatre in Bangkok. READ ON. 回

Sala Dusidalai (ศาลาดุสิดาลัย)

Thai. Name of a royal convention hall in Dusit (fig.), located within the compound of Chitralada Palace, adjacent to the private Royal Villa of King Rama IX (fig.) and used by the King or Queen to grant audiences to high-ranking officials and dignitaries, as well as to organize certain royal events, such as banquets, etc. See MAP. 回

Salah (صلاة)

Arabic. ‘Prayer’. Name for the ritual prayer in Islam, performed five times a day at prescribed times: Fajr (dawn), Dhuhr (midday), Asr (afternoon), Maghrib (sunset), and Isha (night). Each Salah consists of a sequence of movements and recitations, starting with the standing position (Qiyam) where verses from the Koran are recited. This is followed by bowing (Ruku) with hands on knees, standing again, and then prostration (Sujud) with the forehead touching the ground, which is repeated twice in each unit of prayer (Rakat). The prayer concludes with sitting (Tashahhud) and the recitation of specific supplications. Salah is a means to maintain a direct connection with Allah, seeking guidance, expressing gratitude, and attaining spiritual growth. The times for the five daily prayers at dawn, midday, afternoon, sunset, and night, are often indicated on a screen in a mosque, displaying the exact times for each prayer, which vary daily based on the position of the sun. 回

salahkkaphad (สลากภัต)

Thai. A presentation of food to priests by lots. 回

salahk kin baeng (สลากกินแบ่ง)

Thai for ‘lottery’. The people of Thailand are very fond of gambling and the government lottery is the only officially recognized form of gambling, though illegal forms of underground gambling and betting are widely available too. Unlike the electronic system found in many other countries, the Thai lottery system is still paper-based, and tickets are available from agents, which receive these tickets from retailers. Yet, in recent years, the lottery results of winning tickets are made available in a digital form, i.e. on the website of The Government Lottery Office. Each ticket has two parts with the same ticket number that consists of 6 single digits and are sold in pairs, thus a winning number also carries a double prize. The government lottery is held twice a month and the winning numbers are published on the 1st and 16th of every month, and many can't wait to check the results (fig.). Winning tickets with a prize money of less than 20,000 baht can be cashed with a local agent, who will charge a 2% commission on the amount, whereas winning tickets with higher money prizes need to be cashed at The Government Lottery Office, who will issue a cheque. Many people will buy tickets at boots or from hawkers near locations deemed auspicious, such as important temples, palaces, etc. They will also try to get tickets with the number nine, which is considered to be a lucky number. However, potential players should be vigilant, as there are usually fake lottery tickets circulating too, as part of a well-organized scam. Also called huay (หวย) or huayber (หวยเบอร์). See also POSTAGE STAMP. 回

Sala Kaew Kuh (ศาลาแก้วกู่)

Thai. Name of a religious-mythological theme park in Nong Kai, along the Mekhong River, opposite from Laos, with —mostly large— statues depicting characters and scenes from Buddhism and Hinduism. READ ON. 回

Sala Look Khun (ศาลาลูกขุน)

1. Thai. ‘Juror Hall’ or ‘Jury Hall’. Name of a building (sala) within Phra Rachawang, i.e. the Grand Palace, where once meetings for government officials and civil servants were held. In English it is usually referred to as the Look Khun Hall and sometimes transcribed Luk Khun Hall and fully known as Sala Look Khun Nai (ศาลาลูกขุนใน), the ‘Inner Juror Hall’, due to its location within the palace. Initially the building housed the Office of the Auditor General and today it is home to the Office of His Majesty's Principal Private Secretary. See also POSTAGE STAMPS (1), (2) and (3), and MAP. 回

2. Thai. ‘Juror Hall’ or ‘Jury Hall’. Name of a temporary pavilion or shelter (sala) used as a venue to seat senior government officials, palace officials, and other dignitaries, when they have an audience with the King, or are spectators during certain royal ceremonies in which the King or a senior member of the royal family is present. They are erected adjacent to the Phra Thihnang Song Tham, the ceremonial residence used by the King, usually one on each side of it. 回

sala pao (ซาลาเปา)

Thai for dim sam. 回

Sala Rajakarun (ศาลาราชการุณย์)

Thai. ‘Royal Beneficence Hall’. Name of a monument built at Khao Lahn (เขาล้าน), a former refugee camp of the Thai Red Cross Society established by the Queen and used to house Cambodian people during the Khmer Rouge regime of Pol Pot, and located at Tambon Mai Root (ไม้รูด) of Ampheu Klong Yai (คลองใหญ่) in Trat Province. When the Cambodian refugees in 1985 eventually returned home, the camp was closed, but in 1992 it was refurbished into a society centre and a monument with a lotus bud shaped tower by architect Prof. Dr. Bandit Chulasai (บัณฑิต จุลาสัย), and renamed in the honour of Queen Sirikit, who is the royal patron of the Thai Red Cross. In 1997, it appeared on a Thai postage stamp to commemorate the annual Thai Red Cross Fair (fig.). 回

Sala Sahathai Samakhom (ศาลาสหทัยสมาคม)

Thai. Name of a royal hall located within the compound of Phra Rachawang, i.e. the Grand Palace, in Bangkok. READ ON. 回

Sala Samrahn Mukhamaht (ศาลาสำราญมุขมาตย์)

Thai. ‘Mukhamaht Front Pavilion’. Pavilion within the compound of the National Museum in Bangkok. It was built in the reign of King Chulalongkorn and designed by Prince Narisara Nuwattiwong, a younger brother of King Rama V, who also designed Wat Benjamabophit, i.e. the Marble Temple in Bangkok (fig.), as well as the seal of Bangkok (fig.), i.e. the image of Indra riding on the elephant Erawan (fig.). The sala was initially named Phra Thihnang Rachareudih (ราชฤดี), which could be translated as ‘Royal Love Hall’, and was used as a royal pavilion where members of the royal family could eat out in the Ngae Taeng (แง่เต๋ง) Garden, located in Dusit Palace, near Phra Thihnang Amphon Sathaan (fig.). In the reign of King Rama VI the pavilion was renamed Sala Samrahn Mukhamaht and in the reign of King Rama VII, when the museum was established, it was relocated to its current location. See also POSTAGE STAMP and MAP. 回

sala tree

A tree which grows up to 15 meters high and with the botanical name Shorea robusta, yet it is commonly mistaken with another tree, with the Latin designation Couropita guianensis. However, Couropita guianensis was not introduced into South Asia until the late  19th century AD, after which it was mistakenly believed to be Shorea robusta. The Buddha is said to have died stretched out between two sala trees (fig.) and according to some sources he was also born underneath a sala tree, yet due to the mix-up Couropita guianensis was planted at many Buddhist temples throughout South and Southeast Asia. In iconography, this scene is generally depicted as Maha Maya holding a tree branch with her right hand (fig.) and sometimes with an infant emerging from her side (fig.). Some sources speak however of the prince's birth taking place under a teak tree (fig.). Couropita guianensis can be recognized by its typical reddish pink flowers that grow directly from its stem (fig.), and from its large round seeds (fig.) that gives the tree the epithet cannonball tree. The sala tree is often found at Thai temples (fig.) and its large fruits are reminiscent of the look nimit, nine cannonball-like stones (fig.) that are used in Buddhist temples to mark the sacred ground on which the ubosot, i.e. the ordination hall, is built. In Thai, Couropita guianensis is known as ton sala langka, i.e. ‘Singhalese Sala Tree’, perhaps referring to the fact that this tree was introduced from Guyana to a botanical garden in Sri Lanka in 1881, yet definitely indicating the difference from the original sala tree, i.e. Shorea robusta. See also TRAVEL PICTURES. 回

Sala Wah Kaan Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (ศาลาว่าการกรุงเทพมหานคร)

Thai. Literally ‘Governor's Court’ or ‘Hall where Bangkok is Governed’. Name for the office building of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), in English usually referred to as the Bangkok City Hall, and which includes the offices of the Governor of Bangkok. The building is located at the northern end of Lahn Khon Meuang, i.e. the ‘Citizen's Courtyard’, a large public square and events square, which is usually referred to in English as the ‘City Square’ (fig.). See also TRAVEL PICTURE. 回

Salawin (สาละวิน)

Thai name of a 2,815 km long river that rises in Tibet and runs through China's Yunnan province, where it is known as the Nù Jiāng (怒江), meaning the ‘Indignant River’ and possibly referring to its raging torrents as it passes through deep gorges. It then continuous to meanders through Myanmar, where it is known as the Thanlwin River (fig. - map). It enters into Thailand in Mae Hong Son province, where it flows for only a short distance through the Salawin National Park and is fed by the Pai (ปาย) and Mey (เมย) tributaries, before leaving Thai soil again near the village of Mae Sam Laep, streaming back into Burma. Near Mawlamyaing it becomes a delta and eventually flows in the Andaman Sea. Though the Pai River originates in the Thai mountainous region of the amphur Pai and which is about 180 km long, feeds the Salawin River in the Kayah State of Myanmar. The Mey (Moei) River is about 327 km long and originates in the amphur Phop Phra of Tak province. Unlike most rivers in Thailand, the Mey (Moei) River flows northward, for some distance, forming the natural border between Burma and Thailand. It unites with the Salawin River in the amphur Sop Mey/Moei (สบเมย) of Mae Hong Son province. In English, The Salawin is known as Salween, also spelled Salwin. See MAP. 回

saleung (สลึง)

1. Thai. An obsolete monetary unit with a value of a quarter of a baht, i.e. a twenty-five satang coin. It is still found on ancient coins and stamps. See also tamleung. 回

2. Thai. Weight measurement used by jewelers and pharmacists in Thailand, equal to a quarter of a baht, i.e. 3.75 grams. See also tamleung. 回

saliang (เสลี่ยง)

Thai. ‘Sedan chair’. When used for royalty or high-ranking monks its is often finely ornamented with kranok motives or rows of thevadas, a decorative feature in Thai known as thepchumnum (fig.). Some saliang, especially those for royalty, are gilded. In Thai also kaanhaam, yahnamaht and yahnumaht. See also palanquin. 回

saloh (สะล้อ, ซะล้อ)

Thai. A traditional fiddle-like instrument with two or three strings and played with a bow. It is similar to the so sahm saai, but smaller and is typically used in the northern Lan Na region. The saloh is usually made from rosewood and its sound box consists of a polished shell of a special type of coconut with a hole at one side, which is covered with animal skin. Also called so (fig.). 回

Salted Rock Shield

Common name of a lichen in the group of foliose, whose members grow in flat, two-dimensional, leaf-like lobes. It is of the genus Xanthoparmelia, which has a great numbers of synonyms, e.g. Almbornia, Neofuscelia, Chondropsis, Namakwa, Paraparmelia, and Xanthomaculina, and is known by has the scientific names Xanthoparmelia mexicana and Parmelia mexicana. It grows in a rosette, i.e. a circular arrangement of leave-like lobes, that are gray-green in colour. It can grow up to 10 centimetres in diameter. It is similar and related to the Green Rock Shield, a species of lichen of the same genus and with the scientific names Xanthoparmelia lavicola and Parmelia lavicola. 回

salt field

See nah kleua. 回

salwe (စလွယ်)

Burmese term for a set of strings or chains that is worn over the shoulders are fastened at the chest with one or more ornamental plaques. It is usually made from a precious metal, such as gold or silver, and is worn in order to indicate rank, which could be read from the material and the number of strands. Though reminiscent of the European livery collar or chain of office, its use can actually be traced back to the wearing of the brahman cord (fig.) by members of the highest caste in Hindu society. It is also found worn by certain Burmese Buddha images, especially crowned Buddha statues, such as the Nga Htat Gyi Buddha (fig.) in Yangon, as well as by boys under the age of 20 during the shinpyu ordination ceremony (fig.), when they dress in princely attire prior to becoming a Buddhist novice known as shin thamanei. See also Mandarin square. 回

Salween

See Salawin. 回

Sama (साम)

Sanskrit. The second of the four Vedas, which deals with the knowledge of worship, and is the originator of Indian classical music. Also Samaveda. 回

samahkhom nak sasom trah praisanihyahkon haeng prathet thai (สมาคมนักสะสมตราไปรษณียากรแห่งประเทศไทย)

Thai name for The Philatelists Association of Thailand. 回

samahkhom phaet rabob thaang deun ahaan haeng prathet thai (สมาคมแพทย์ระบบทางเดินอาหารแห่งประเทศไทย)

Thai name for Gastroenterological Association of Thailand. 回

samahkhom tantra (สมาคมตันตระ)

Thai. Tantra Association’ or ‘Tantra Society’. Another name for Wat Phra Siwa Chao, a Thai Hindu sanctuary in Bangkok known in English as ‘Lord Shiva Temple’. 回

samaddhi

See dhyani and samahti. 回

samahti (สมาธิ)

Thai for ‘meditation’. The historical Buddha attained Enlightenment seated in a position of concentration or meditation, as is seen in images depicted with a dhyani mudra. Generally meditation is an attempt to experience the deepest realities by inner contemplation. Buddhist monks in Thailand typically meditate on death, often making use of corpses or photos of dead people. Some even go as far as to lock themselves up inside a crematorium for meditation, which is somewhat reminiscent to the sadhu in India, who cover their body and face in vibhuti (fig.), i.e. sacred ash taken from a cremation fire (fig.). In addition, there are weekly magazines available to the larger public, with titles such as Ahdyahkam (อาชญากรรม) meaning ‘Crime’, and 191 (i.e. the emergency number of the Special Branch of the Royal Thai Police), that show gruesome pictures of victims of murder and people killed in traffic accidents. Sometimes transcribed samaati en in popular speech also called wipatsanah and kammathaan (กรรมฐาน). 回

samana (शमण, สมณะ)

Pali-Thai. ‘One who strives’. A term used for an hermit or ascetic. 回

samanaborikaan (สมณบริขาร)

Thai. The eight necessary articles or utensils required by Buddhist monks in daily life. These include an alms bowl or baat, clothing or pahkahsahwapad, a needle, a razor, a water filter and an umbrella. Also borikaan. 回

samanaen

See naen. 回

samanasak (สมณศักดิ์)

Thai. ‘Ecclesiastical dignity’. Term for ecclesiastical peerages, i.e. titles or ranks, traditionally given to Buddhist monks in Thailand, who are ordained members of the Sangha. 回

samanera (श्रामणेर)

Sanskrit. Ascetics, mendicant monks or wanderers of diverse religious discipline in ancient India. The term today refers to a novice in the Buddhist order. Officially transcribed with an ‘r’ following the ‘s’, i.e. śrāmaṇera (shrAmaNera). In Thailand, the term for a novice is samanaen, which is usually abbreviated to naen, and in Myanmar it is shin thamanei. 回

Samantabhadra (समन्तभद्र)

Sanskrit. ‘Universal worthy one’. The Sanskrit name for Puxian. 回

Samaveda (सामवेद)

Sanskrit. See Sama. 回

Sambar

See Sambar Deer. 回

Sambar Deer

Common name for a large deer, with the scientific name Cervus unicolor. Its coat is dark brown, with chestnut marks on the rump and underparts, and mane-like hairs on the neck and throat (fig.). Males may have large rugged antlers (fig.), that may exceed well over one meter in length, and of which the brow tines are simple and the main beams typically forked at the tip. Sambar Deer are found in southern Asia, including India and Nepal (fig.); mainland Southeast Asia, including Thailand (fig.) where it is called kwahng pah (กวางป่า), meaning ‘wild deer’ or ‘forest deer’; southern China; Indonesia; and the Malaysian island of Borneo. There are several subspecies and one particular species, i.e. the Sunda Sambar (Cervus timorensis), which is slightly smaller, is known to be a favourite prey of the Indonesian Komodo dragon (fig.). Also called simply Sambar. In 1976, Sambar Deer were depicted on a Thai postage stamp, as part of a series on wild animals (fig.). See also WILDLIFE PICTURES (1) and (2), and TRAVEL PICTURE. 回

sa-mee (สมี)

Thai. A former Buddhist monk defrocked as a result of a serious transgression. See also abat and Buddhist precepts. 回

Sammakon (สัมมากร)

A neighborhood in Bangkok's Saphaan Soong district, which consists of a village-like community, of which a good deal is purportedly royal property. The rather tranquil area off Ramkhamhaeng Road features four large lakes, which are referred to as thale saap sammakon (ทะเลสาปสัมมากร), i.e. ‘Sammakon Lakes’. Also transliterated Sammakorn. See also QUADCOPTER PICTURES (1) and (2), as well as MAP. 回

Sammanakkha (สำมนักขา)

Thai. Name of a female giant or yak character in the Ramakien. READ ON. 回

Samnakngaan Khannakammakaan Kitjakaan Krajaai Siang Kitjakaan Thorasap Lae Kitjakaan Thorakhammanahkhom Haeng Chaat (สำนักงานคณะกรรมการกิจการกระจายเสียง กิจการโทรทัศน์และกิจการโทรคมนาคมแห่งชาติ)

Thai for the Office of The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, referred to in short as NBTC. It was established in December 2010 and is the successor of the Office of The National Telecommunication Commission or NTC, which is known in Thai as Samnakngaan Khannakammakaan Kitjakaan Thorakhammanahkhom Haeng Chaat, which in turn developed from the Department of Posts and Telegraph, and hence its logo is a Garuda over a post horn (fig.). See MAP. 回

Samnakngaan Khannakammakaan Kitjakaan Thorakhammanahkhom Haeng Chaat (สำนักงานคณะกรรมการกิจการโทรคมนาคมแห่งชาติ)

Thai for Office of The National Telecommunication Commission, known in short as the NTC, an organization that developed from the Department of Posts and Telegraph, and its logo is a Garuda over a post horn. The organization plays a role in managing radio frequencies for telecommunication activities, as well as supervising telecommunication transactions in order to yield the highest benefits in terms of education, culture, and state security. Other duties include the promotion of free and fair competition, as well as support for research and development, in the Thai telecommunications industry. The organization was established in 2004 and in December 2010 it converged with other departments and was transformed into the Office of The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, referred to in short as NBTC and known in Thai as Samnakngaan Khannakammakaan Kitjakaan Krajaai Siang Kitjakaan Thorasap Lae Kitjakaan Thorakhammanahkhom Haeng Chaat (fig.). 回

Samnakngaan Khannakammakaan Khumkhrong Phoo Boriphohk (สำนักงานคณะกรรมการคุ้มครองผู้บริโภค)

Thai for Office of the Consumer Protection Board, the government agency that ensures the rights of consumers, as well as fair trade, competition, and accurate information in the marketplace. It looks after the interests of consumers nationwide and mediates in conflicts. The agaency is in existence since 1979 and consists of several departments, including a Complaint Centre, known in Thai as Soon Rab Reuang Rahw Rong Thuk (ศูนย์รับเรื่องราวร้องทุกข์), where complaints are reviewed and legal advise is given. The Office of the Consumer Protection Board also has its own police force, a specialized branch of the Royal Thai Police. See also POSTAGE STAMP and MAP. 回

Samnakngaan Tamruat Haeng Chaat (สำนักงานตำรวจแห่งชาติ)

Thai. ‘Office of the National Police’, which in English is officially referred to as Royal Thai Police. 回

Samnak Pattibat Tham Sanku (สำนักปฏิบัติธรรมสันกู่)

Thai. ‘Sanku Meditation Institution’. Name of a Buddhist meditation center, located on a forested hill on the outskirts of Mae Rim, just north of the city of Chiang Mai. READ ON. 回

Samnak Phijahranah Phaaphayon Lae Wihdithat (สํานักพิจารณาภาพยนตร์และวีดิทัศน์)

Thai. ‘Film and Video Consulting Agency’. Government bureau under the Department of Cultural Promotion, which in turn is a division of the Ministry of Culture. It acts as a regulating body in all matters related to moving pictures and the film industry. 回

Samnaksong Narinthammarattanarahm (สำนักสงฆ์ นรินทร์ธรรมรัตนาราม)

Thai. ‘King of the Righteousness Jewel Monastery’, ‘Lord of the Dhamma Jewel Temple’ or ‘Temple of the Leader of the Righteousness Jewel’. Name of a Buddhist temple in Nan. Whereas samnaksong is another word for ‘temple’ or ‘monastery’, which literally means ‘monastic office’ or ‘office of the monks’, with song being an abbreviation of Phrasong, thammarattana, i.e. the ‘Righteousness Jewel’, is a compound of thamma or dhamma and rattana, and refers to the Teachings of the Buddha, a term that often appears in Buddhist names, especially of temples, where it usually refers to either all or one of the Rattanatrai, i.e. the ‘Triple Gems’ or ‘Three Jewels’, that is to say the Buddha, his teachings (dhamma) and the Sangha. The suffix rahm or raam derives from araam and also means ‘temple’ or ‘monastery’, whereas Narin is a royal title that means ‘Leader of the People’ or ‘Lord of Men’, and which can be translated to ‘King’ or ‘sovereign’. WATCH VIDEO. 回

sa-moh (สมอ)

Thai. Name for the gall-nut, a medicinal fruit in the form of a small nutlike sphere (fig.), that Indra offered to the Buddha from a tree in heaven in order to strengthen him, during the seventh weeks after he attained Enlightenment, while he was sitting under the Rajayatana Tree to meditate and enjoy the Bliss of Vimutti, i.e. the freedom from suffering, without eating anything during the whole period. The fruit is used as a herbal medicine and in the iconography of Myanmar, a certain pose of Buddha images (fig.) represents the Buddha with his arms hanging at his side, with one hand holding onto his robe and the other holding a gall-nut fruit between thumb and middle finger (fig.). This pose is believed to represent the Buddha offering the dhamma as a cure for suffering. The sa-moh may also be described as fruit from a tree with the botanical name Prunus cerasiferaas, which is commonly known by the names purple-leaf plum, cherry plum, and myrobalan plum. See also Haripunchai. 回

Samohson Krung Thep Krihtah (สโมสรกรุงเทพกรีฑา)

Thai. Literally ‘Bangkok Athletics Club’. However, the term krihtah, sometimes transliterated kreetah or kreetha, is used for all kinds of track and field sports, and the name is figuratively often translated as ‘Bangkok Sports Club’, yet to avoid confusion with the Royal Bangkok Sports Club, it is in English altogether referred to as ‘Krung Thep Kreetha Sports Club’. It is located in Bangkok's khwaeng Hua Mahk, in the khet Bangkapi, alongside ‒yet somewhat off‒ the Bangkok-Chonburi Highway. It features a golf course, with two club houses, and facilities for fitness, swimming, tai chi, qi gong, and yoga. See MAP. 回

Samon (สามล)

King from the Thai story Sangthong whose daughter Rochana (fig.) married Phra Sang. 回

Samonthat (สามลทัศ)

Thai. Name of one of the seven guardian spirits that looks out for children and that are generally known as Mae Seua. This thevada guards all the children that are born on a Wednesday and is represented with a human-like body and the head of an elephant, similar to the Hindu deity Ganesha (fig.). 回

sampan (สำปั้น)

See reua sampan. 回

sampannih (สัมปันนี)

Thai. Name of an ancient Thai dessert, usually fashioned in the shape of a beautiful flower, often in white or in a pastel colour. These flowers-shaped biscuits are made with wheat flour or tapioca flour, coconut milk and sugar. They are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and purportedly melt in the mouth. Their taste is described as mellow sweet. The name means ‘darling’ or ‘beloved’, and it is considered a suitable snack and a souvenir to give to a loved one. Its appearance and taste is variable and the recipe has over time changed to suit demand according to the time period. Nowadays, the centre of the flower may be decorated with a little gold powder or gold leaf. See also POSTAGE STAMP. 回

Samphati (สัมพาที)

Thai. Mythological bird from the Ramakien with enormous power. It is the oldest son of Garuda and the older brother to Sadayu. He has the face of the Garuda and the body of a bird with a red plumage. He is known for his self-sacrifice because he protected his brother from the piercing rays of the sun, after he was being punished for trying to eat it, when he mistook it for a fruit, thus infuriating Surya. The heat of the rays caused his feathers to fall so Samphati remained featherless until the day the curse would be lifted. Also called Nok Samphati. 回

sampot (សំពត់)

Khmer. A piece of clothing covering the lower part of the body (fig.). Traditionally, it is considered the national garment of Cambodia and comparable to the Thai pah nung and the Burmese longyi. There are various kinds and styles, as well as different fabrics, with the sampot thep apsara being a famous type of sampot from the Khmer Empire era, which is typically found worn by apsaras in Khmer art. Besides the latter, there is also the sampot alorgn, sampot chang kben, sapot chorabap, sampot lberk, sampot samloy, sampot sang, sampot seai sua, whereas the two main fabrics are referred to as sampot hol and sampot phamuong. Compare with the Thai johng kraben (fig.). 回

samrohng (สำโรง)

Another Thai name for po daeng, an up to 30 meters large tree, with the botanical name Sterculia foetida (fig.). The name reportedly comes from the Khmer language, where it is pronounced somrong. 回

samrong (สำรอง)

A species of tree commonly known as Malva Nut Tree and with the binomial name Scaphium macropodium, found in many parts of Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand, where it is especially cultivated in Chanthaburi and Trat. Its plum-like fruit is used as a herb in traditional medicine to improve general health, as well as to treat certain respiratory conditions and other ailments, such as cough, phlegm, sore throat, apthous ulcers and fever. It has several other names, depending on the region. In Central Thailand, it is known as phung thalaai (พุงทะลาย) and in Isaan it is called bakjong (บักจอง). Its dried fruit, known as look samrong, is found in bulk in Bangkok's Chinatown. 回

samsara (संसार)

Sanskrit. The transmigration of the soul caused by the perpetual cycles of birth, aging, death and rebirth, accompanied by suffering. Both Hindus and Buddhists try to break this cycle by striving for the elimination of lust and desire. In Thai called sangsarawat. 回

Samuha Kalahome (สมุหกลาโหม)

Thai. Name for the High Chancellor of the Interior Command of the southern districts, with the title of Chao Phraya, a post which derived from the Samuha Nayok. It is also referred to as Samuha Phra Kalahome and is sometimes incorrectly translated as Prime Minister, a position with similar powers but which was created only later and thus at best would be its successor. 回

Samuha Nayok (สมุหนายก)

Thai. Name for the High Chancellor of the Interior Command of the northern districts, with the title of Chao Phraya. READ ON. 回

Samuha Phra Kalahome (สมุหพระกลาโหม)

See Samuha Kalahome. 回

Samui (สมุย)

Large island (map) in the Gulf of Thailand, off the coast of mainland Surat Thani, the southern province of which it is also a part. Although its port and main commercial centre are in Nathon, Chaweng is its main holiday destination, offering many shops and restaurants, as well as nightclubs and accommodation in any category. Another place on the rise is Lamai, just a short distance south of Chaweng. Besides the many pristine sandy beaches Samui also has some waterfalls (map - fig.), numerous coconut plantations, the unusual ‘grandfather and grandmother’ rock formations (map - fig.), a safari park, the Big Buddha (map - fig.) on nearby Koh Fahn island, etc. Only a short boat trip away to its West is Ang Thong National Marine Park and to its North lies the popular ‘hippy island’ Pha Ngan (map - fig.). Samui is often referred to as Koh Samui or Ko Samui, meaning Samui Island. See MAP. 回

samurai (侍)

Japanese. In the past, a member of the Japanese warrior caste (fig.), who followed a code of conduct and chivalry known as Bushido (武士道), meaning ‘Way of the Warrior’. Bushido is related to the ancient Japanese concept of Yamato Damashi, in which a warrior never retreats or surrenders, but fights either until victory or death. These warriors were clothed in elaborate combat dresses, including ornate battle helmets (fig.), that typically had two antler-like projections at the front (fig.), often in the form of two birds' heads facing each other. In Japanese, Rhinoceros Beetles (fig.) are referred to as kabutomushi, literally ‘helmet insects’, as their armour-plated bodies and forked horns are reminiscent of samurai helmets. In Chinese, the Bushido is pronounced Wushidao, with the character dao (道) being the same as that for Tao or Dao, the all embracing, ultimate and primordial principle of Taoism, which is usually translated as the ‘Right Way’. Nowadays the term samurai stands for a Japanese army officer. See also katana and Tamahagane. 回

samut (สมุทร)

Thai term for ‘sea’ and thus a synonym of thalae. However, while samut and thalae both refer to large bodies of water, samut is a more formal, literary term often found in classical or official contexts, such as in place names like Samut Prakan, whereas thalae is the common, everyday word used in casual conversation. Thalae can also be used in other contexts, such as in thalae mek, meaning a ‘sea of ​​clouds’. See also Maha Samut. 回

Samut Prakan (สมุทรปราการ)

Thai. ‘Fortress at Sea’. Name of a province (map) and its capital city in the region of central Thailand, 29 kms south of the centre of Bangkok. READ ON. 回

Samut Sakon (สมุทรสาคร)

Thai-Sanskrit. Literally ‘Ocean Lake’, but usually translated as ‘Ocean City’. A province (map) and its capital city of the same name on the Gulf of Thailand. READ ON. 回

Samut Songkhram (สมุทรสงคราม)

Thai. ‘Ocean of war’. Name of a province (map) and its modern coastal capital in West Thailand, 72 kms southwest of Bangkok. READ ON. 回

Sanam Bin Nahm (สนามบินน้ำ)

Thai. ‘Water Airfield’. Name of an area in Nonthaburi, which prior to ca. 1937 AD was used as an airstrip for floatplanes. Its use declined with the expansion of the Don Meuang Airport and the name is now used to refer both to the area and a major local highway that runs through it. 回

Sanam Bin Sra Pathum (สนามบินสระปทุม)

Thai. ‘Lotus Pond Airfield’. Name of a former makeshift airfield located on the grounds of a horse racetrack at the Royal Bangkok Sports Club in Bangkok's Pathumwan District, which was used during the onset of aviation in Thailand, in the beginning of the 20th century. It was the first time used for a flying demonstration on 31 January 1911 by the Belgian pilot Charles Van den Born (fig.), who with a flight in his plane the Farman (fig.) introduced aviation to Thailand. Sra Pathum Airfield was utilized until March 1914, when the first real airport, i.e. Don Meuang International Airport, became operational. Whereas the name pathum means ‘water lily’ or ‘lotus’, and derives from the name of its location, i.e. Pathumwan (ปทุมวัน), sra means ‘pool’ or ‘pond’. See also Sanam Bin Nahm. 回

Sanam Kilah Haeng Chaht (สนามกีฬาแห่งชาติ)

Thai. ‘National Sports Field’. Name for the National Stadium (fig.) in Bangkok. 回

Sanam Luang (สนามหลวง)

1. Thai. ‘Royal Field’. The Phra Meru (fig.) field in front of the royal palace, in Bangkok. On this large grassland often kite flying fights (fig.), concerts and demonstrations are held, the annual Royal Ploughing Ceremony (fig.) takes place and traditionally members of the royal family are cremated (fig.), which is but a short distance from the palace, where a kings' remains are lain in state until his body is transported, placed upright inside a koht, i.e. a royal funeral urn (fig.), by means of a royal funeral procession (fig.) to the crematorium (fig.). In 1948, the first weekend market in Bangkok was established here, which in 1982 was relocated to its present-day site on Phahon Yothin Road and renamed the Phahon Yothin Market, which later became the Chatuchak Weekend Market (fig.). See MAP. 回

2. Thai. ‘Royal Field’. Name of a royal lawn within the King Mongkut Memorial Park in downtown Phetchaburi (fig.), sometimes referred to as Sanam Luang Phetburi, in order to differentiate it from the Phra Meru field in Bangkok (fig.). 回

Sanam Supachalasai (สนามศุภชลาศัย)

Thai. Name of the main and oldest stadium at the National Stadium sports complex in Bangkok. It was built in 1937 and named for Navy Captain Bung Supachalasai (fig.), Deputy Commander in Chief of the Royal Thai Navy and First Director General of the Department of Physical Education with the title of Luang and considered the Father of Thai Sport, who overlooked the construction of the National Stadium. The top of the gable of the main entrance has a the national tricolour flanked by statues of Indra on Erawan (fig.), fashioned after the emblem of Bangkok (fig.) and in a style reminiscent of Socialist Realism. See also TRAVEL PICTURE, PANORAMA PICTURE, and POSTAGE STAMP. 回

Sanchi (साँची)

Hindi. An important Buddhist site where the emperor Ashoka, in the third century BC, had the Great Stupa built which was doubled in size about a hundred years later. 回

Sanctuary of Truth

See Prasat Satjathamm. 回

sandalwood

An aromatic and lightweight kind of wood very suitable for fine detailed woodcarvings and thus highly popular. Commonly found are carved sandalwood fans and various Buddhist artifacts. Clubs or maces made from sandalwood were in the past used to carry out the capital punishment of high raking officials and royalty, such as the execution of king Taksin. Traditionally royal cremation urns are also made of sandalwood. In Thai, it is called mai jan and dok maijan (fig.), artificial flowers made of sandalwood, are used for the ritual lighting of funeral pyres. There are several kinds of sandalwood, including Indian sandalwood, white sandalwood, red sandalwood, etc. Phra Maha Ut images (fig.) often have the imprint of one or more sandalwood-flowers on them, which are a symbol of sammah samphutta (สัมมาสัมพุทธะ), i.e. the ‘Perfectly Enlightened One’. In Thai known as mai jan or mai chan (ไม้จันทน์). 回

sandalwood flower

See dok maijan. 回

Sanda Muhki (စန္ဒာမုနိ)

Burmese. Name of an ogress, who −desiring to offer something to the Buddha− offered him her own two breasts. For this radical act of merit, the Buddha prophesied that Sanda Muhki would be reborn as a future great king and ardent supporter of Buddhism, who would build a city at the foot of Mandalay Hill. Since in 1857 AD, King Mindon Min (fig.) founded the city of Mandalay, Sanda Muhki is seen as the latter's earlier incarnation. Of course, the cutting off of female breasts reminds of the legendary Amazon, whose Greek name Amazona (αμαζόνα) literally means ‘breastless’, as these forceful Scythian female warriors of Greek mythology were alleged to have cut off their right breast so as not to interfere with the use of a bow or a spear. In Thai, she is known as nang yak Khamukhi (นางยักษ์ขมูขี). Pronunciation Sanda Muni, as in Sanda Muni Phaya. 回

Sanda Muni Phaya (စန္ဒာမုနိဘုရား)

Burmese. Name of a Buddhist temple located at the foot of Mandalay Hill (fig.), which houses 1,772 marble steles inscribed with the Sutta (395 slabs); Vinaya (1,207 slab); and Abhidhamma (170 slab), erected in 1913 by the hermit Ukhandi (Ukhan Tithe) and placed in numerous freestanding stupas. The temple is named after the ogress Sanda Muhki (pronounced Sanda Muni - fig.), believed to be an earlier incarnation of King Mindon Min (fig.), the founder of the city of Mandalay, who also created the similar Kuthodaw Pagoda (fig.), a Buddhist temple located nearby which also houses a version of the Tipitaka and which is sometimes dubbed the world's largest book. See also MAP and TRAVEL PHOTOS. 回

Sandbox Tree

Common name for a large, up to 60 metres tall, evergreen tree, with the botanical name Hura crepitans and known in Thai as Phohsri (โพศรี). This monoecious tree has large ovate leaves and while the red male flowers grow on long spikes, the  red female trumpet flowers with no petals grow solitary on stems. The tree' spiny trunk gave it the epithet Monkey No-climb Tree. The pumpkin-shaped fruit of the Sandbox Tree consists of crescent-shaped seeds arranged radially. When ripe, the fruit explodes and the seeds are catapulted over large distances, often landing several tens of meters away from the parent tree. The sound of this ballistic form of dispersal, known as explosive dehiscence, led to the tree also being nicknamed Dynamite Tree. 回

Sand Bubbler Crab

Name of a species of tiny crab of the genus Scopimera inflata and belonging to the family Ocypodidae. They don't grow much larger than a mere 1.5 centimeter (fig.) and have pincers that point downwards, enabling them to scoop sand into their highly adapted mouthparts at high speed. They feed on organic matter and microscopic small creatures called myofauna that are living in the upper layer of damped soil on sandy beaches. Soon after the tide has exposed the beach these tiny crabs emerge from small burrows in the sand and start sieving detritus from the sand. During this process they pass sand particles through their mouths, filtering the edible elements out and regurgitating unwanted particles in the form of tiny pellets of sand, which they discard all over the beach. In Thai, they are called poo pan saay, which translates as ‘sand molding crab’. Sometimes referred to by the scientific name Dotilla fenestrate. See also piyaw and poo sahaem kaam daeng. See also WILDLIFE PICTURES (1) and (2), and WATCH VIDEO. 回

sand ginger

Common name for a type of rhizome with the botanical name Kaempferia galanga and known in Thai as krachai dam (fig.), and one of four species of the genus Alpinia, known in Thai as krachai. 回

Sand Martin

Common name for a circa 12 cm long passerine bird in the swallow family, with the scientific designation Riparia riparia. Adults are brown above and white below, with a somewhat fainter brown band on the breast, while the legs are brown and the bill is black. This species has a wide range, occurring in Europe, parts of northern Africa, Asia and America in summer, while wintering in eastern and southern Africa, and parts of southern America and Asia. It lives near bodies of water and rivers, where it feeds on small insects, mostly flies whose early stages are aquatic. It breeds in colonies, typically nesting in burrows bored in the sand on a river bank (fig.). Also known as Bank Swallow, Collared Sand Martin, and European Sand Martin. See also WILDLIFE PICTURES. 回

sandon (สันดอน)

Thai. A sandbank or bar at the mouth of a river, especially the bar at the mouth of the Chao Phrya river in Samut Prakan, where reua khut (dredgers) with the appropriate name ‘sandon’ can be seen (fig.) looking after the draught, that is the depth of the river needed to navigate a ship. See also don. 回

sand pagoda

See chedi saai. 回

sang (ซั้ง)

Name for a type of fish trap made from bamboo wickerwork with a spiked entrance to prevent the fish from escaping, once inside. There are many different models and shapes. They are usually slightly oval or round and tapering. Small twigs are placed inside the trap to attract the fish to come and hide in between them, entrapping them inside. When the trap is recovered the entrance is shut with some sticks or sometimes with a net. It is used for entrapping fresh water fish near riverbanks, where the water is shallow and where it is affixed to the bottom using wooden sticks. Sometimes called  gram or glam, or referred to by its local name or according the type, e.g. lob, son, sai and saab. See also tum. 回

Sang (สังข์)

1. Thai name for Sankha. 回

2. Thai. Name of a small island off the coast of Prachuap Khirikhan Province, located on the western seashore of the Gulf of Thailand. It is situated near Koh Singh, roughly between Pha Fang Daeng, i.e. the ‘Red Cliffs’ (fig.), and Koh Thalu (fig.). WATCH VIDEO and VIDEO (E). 回

sangbuab (ซังบวบ)

Thai. ‘Fiber gourd’ or ‘cob gourd’. A name for luffa. 回

Sangha (สงฆ์, संघ)

Thai-Sanskrit. ‘Multitude’, ‘assembly’ or ‘association’. The community of monks that follow the Buddhist canon. It is one element of the Trairat, together with the Buddha and the Dhamma. The Thai Sangha is divided into two denominations, i.e. the Mahanikaya sect and Dhammayutika sect, the first one being the largest with about 35 times as many monks. 回

Sangharama (सङ्घाराम)

1. Sanskrit term for a Buddhist temple or monastery, literally the arama or araam of the Sangha, i.e. the community of Buddhist monks. 回

2. Sanskrit. Buddhist name of Kuan U sometimes used after his death and his deification as a bodhisattva and the guardian of the dharma. 回

Sanghavasa (संघवस)

Sanskrit. The monks quarters in a Buddhist temple complex. 回

sang-i (囍, ซังฮี้)

Chinese-Thai. ‘Double happiness’. A Chinese sign or character often used during weddings (fig.) to express the happiness that the new couple may befall. The word sang means ‘double’ or ‘couple’ and i means ‘happiness’. In Pinyin also transcribed xĭ, and in English sang hee or sang-hi. See also foo. 回

 

囍

 

Sangkayana (สังคายนา)

Thai-Pali. Grand Council held by the Buddhist Sangha for the purpose of revising the Tripitaka. There was one held in Chiang Mai in 1477 AD. Also called Sangkayanai. 回

Sangkayanai (สังคายนาย)

See Sangkayana. 回

Sangkalok (สังคโลก)

Chinese pronunciation for Sawankhalok. Also Sangkhalok. 回

sangkhaathi (สังฆาฏิ)

Thai. A yellow or orange piece of additional clothing folded in a very particular way into a rectangle and worn by monks over the left shoulder during religious services inside the monastery or temple and as protection against the cold, a kind of winter cloak worn by monks on their robes, yet normally folded over the left shoulder in Buddhist ceremonies. It is one of three pieces of cloth called the traijiewon. Also transliterated sangkaati. 回

Sangkhalok (สังคโลก)

See Sangkalok. 回

Sangkhlaburi (สังขละบุรี)

Thai. Name of an amphur in the northern part of Kanchanaburi province with a population of around 40,000 inhabitants. It has a lot of natural attractions such as waterfalls, rough jungle and the Khao Laem reservoir which flooded the local valley as well as parts of the former city and today still reveals the old half-sunken temple (map - fig.). The western part of town, across the wooden Mon bridge (map - fig.) that connects the Thai village of Sangkhlaburi with the local Mon village, consists largely of rafthouses built on the water. It is one of the few places in Thailand where the people, dressed in longyi (long Burmese-style sarong) and often with their faces covered in thanaka powder, can be seen carrying goods on the top of their head, without using their hands. Also on the Mon side is Wat Wang Wiwekaram, a Buddhist temple in a mixture of Thai, Burmese and Indian styles and with its satellite pagoda built in the style of the Mahabodhi pagoda in Bodhgaya (map - fig.). Sangkhlaburi is the last town before reaching the border with Burma at the Three Pagoda Pass (fig.), and along the main road into town is Wat Somdet (วัดสมเด็จ), a temple with features on either way of the road, including an old ubosot that has Buddha images sitting on each of the window sills, on the outer side; a square wihaan with a pointed roof (map - fig.); a few chedis; a row of Buddha images (fig.); as well as a giant reclining Buddha (fig.). Sometimes transcribed Sangklaburi. It was formerly named Wang Ka. 回

Sang Praeng (สางแปรง)

Thai-Pali name of a mythological creature from Himaphan forest, that has the body of a singha, with clawed feet and a feathery tail. Its body is sometimes depicted with scales and in a yellow colour. Also transcribed Saang Praeng or sometimes Sang Prang. In appearance it is somewhat similar to Sakun Kraison, which besides claws and a feathery tail, also has a beak, and is of a brown colour. 回

sangsarawat (สังสารวัฏ)

Thai term for samsara. 回

Sangthong (สังข์ทอง)

Thai. ‘Golden Conch’. Name of a hero from a traditional Thai story of the same name, who is usually referred to as Prince Phra Sang. The prince had a body of gold and married Rochana (fig.), the daughter of King Samon. To avoid unwanted attraction to his golden complexion, Prince Sangthong disguised himself as Chao Ngo (fig.), an ogre (fig.) with characteristics of members of the Ngo Tribe, i.e. with a black complexion and curly hair (fig.). The folk narrative is written in dramatic verse by King Rama II and has also been adapted for stage performance, while it also appears in the Panyas Jataka Stories where it is known by the name Suwana Sang Jataka. It is popular in southern Thailand in the form of a narrative written for chanting. There are several Thai postage stamps that portray characters and scenes from the story Sangthong, e.g. a 1973 stamp in a set of four stamps on Thai literature (fig.), while two complete series of stamps have been dedicated to the theme, the latest one issued on the 2010 National Children's Day (fig.). Also commonly called Hoi Sang, sometimes transcribed Sang Thong, and reminiscent of kumaanthong. See POSTAGE STAMPS (1), (2), and (3), THEMATIC STREET LIGHT, and TRAVEL PICTURES. MORE ON THIS. 回

Sangwaan Talaphat (สังวาลย์ ตะละภัฏ)

Thai. Name of the Princess Mother, i.e. the mother of both King Bhumipon Adunyadet (fig.) and his older brother King Ananda Mahidol. She is officially known as Princess Sri Nagarindra. 回

Sankha (शङ्ख)

Sanskrit. ‘Conch [of victory]’. An attribute of several gods (fig.) and the instrument used by Vishnu to herald his victories over the demons. It is also a symbol for the primordial sound Aum and is also present in Buddhism. It is seen during certain festival, especially in Hinduism (fig.). In Thai Sang and Phrasong. 回

sanook (สนุก)

Thai word meaning ‘entertaining, amusing, pleasant, enjoyable, to have a good time, to be vivacious and to enjoy’ as an adjective, and ‘entertainment, amusement, pleasure, enjoyment, a good time, fun and joy’ as a noun.  Also sanook sanahn (สนุกสนาน), and also transcribed sanuk and sanuk sanan. In Isaan, the term for sanook sanahn is muan seuhn. 回

Sanphat (สรรพัชญ์)

Thai. ‘The All-knowing’, a nickname for the Buddha. Also Sanphet. 回

Sanphet (สรรเพชญ์)

1. Thai. ‘The All-knowing’, a nickname for the Buddha. It is integrated in the name of the temple Wat Phra Sri Sanphet in Ayutthaya (fig.). Also Sanphat. 回

2. Thai. ‘The all-knowing, he who knows everything’. Crown titles for nine monarchs of the Ayutthaya Period, starting with King Maha Dhammarachathiraat (fig.), with the title Somdet Phra Sanphet Thih I (สมเด็จพระสรรเพชญ์ที่ ๑); followed by King Naresuan (fig.), with the title Somdet Phra Sanphet Thih II; King Ekathotsarot (fig.), with the title Somdet Phra Sanphet Thih III; King Sri Saowaphak (ศรีเสาวภาคย์), with the title Somdet Phra Sanphet Thih IV; King Prasat Thong (ปราสาททอง), with the title Somdet Phra Sanphet Thih V; King Chai (ไชย), with the title Somdet Phra Sanphet Thih VI; King Sri Suthammaracha (ศรีสุธรรมราชา), with the title Somdet Phra Sanphet Thih VII; King Suriyenthrathibodi (สุริเยนทราธิบดี), with the title Somdet Phra Sanphet Thih VIII; and King Thaisa (ท้ายสระ), with the title Somdet Phra Sanphet Thih IX. 回

Sanskrit (संस्कृत)

An ancient language from India meaning ‘pure’. Etymologically it is of Indo-European origin and is used in the sacred texts of Hinduism. In Buddhism it is the language of Mahayana Buddhism compared to Pali, that is used in Theravada or Hinayana Buddhism. Its position in the cultures of South and Southeast Asia is similar to that of Latin and Greek in Europe and its influence on Thai is significant. Sanskrit uses the Devanagari script. It is sometimes referred to as deva-bhasa, meaning ‘divine language’. The name is derived from the word Samskrtam and may be translated as ‘well put together’, ‘refined’ or ‘highly elaborated’, but is also translated ‘pure’. It comes from the root samskar, meaning ‘to put together’ or ‘to compose’. It is also called Samskrtaa Vaak, meaning ‘Sanskrit Speech’, but which is often translated as the ‘Cultured Language’. In Thai called Phasa Sanskrit. 回

Santa Cruz Church

Name of a Catholic church, located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River, in Thonburi. READ ON. 回

santi (สันติ)

Thai word meaning ‘peace’, ‘peaceful’, ‘peacefulness’, ‘tranquility’, ‘quietness’, ‘calmness’. 回

Santi Khiri (สันติครีรี)

Thai. ‘Peaceful Mountain’. Nickname for Doi Mae Salong. 回

santol

Western name for krathon. 回

san tou liu bi (三头六臂)

Chinese. ‘Three heads six arms’. Iconographic style, especially used in Taoist religious art, in which a certain deity is depicted with three heads and six arms (fig.), to indicate his or her great power. Since the term is used to describe a being of formidable powers, it is also used an idiom for someone who possesses remarkable abilities. 回

sao inthakhin (เสาอินทขีล)

Thai. ‘Barrier post’ or ‘guardian pillar’. Another name for lak meuang, i.e. the City Pillar, in which the guardian spirit of a city dwells. Also transliterated sahw inthakin. WATCH VIDEO. 回

sao nang naeb (เสานางแนบ)

Thai. ‘Adjacent lady poles’. Architectural term for decoratively carved, quadrangular, stone pillars, placed at the porch or roofed entrance of certain structures in Khmer style, such as prasat hin, and which aid in the support of the porch's roof. They can be either monolithic or compounded of several stone blocks. 回

Saopha (စော်ဘွား)

Burmese. ‘Lord of the Skies’. A royal title used by the hereditary rulers of the Shan States of Myanmar. It is the Burmese equivalent of the Thai title Chao Fah. 回

Sao Sanom (สาวสนม)

Thai. ‘Youthful Concubine’. Name of a perennial plant in the family Burseraceae, with the botanical designation Santiria griffithii, and which grows up to 10 centimetres in height. Its main stem is sparsely covered with hair and it has thin leaves that usually spread along the ground. The flowers consists of three purple petals and three yellow stamens. This species thrives well in the cracks of rocks and is usually found deep in the forest. It is depicted on a postage stamp issued in 2009 as part of a set of four stamps on wild flowers found in Thailand (fig.). It is also found in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. 回

Saovabha (เสาวภา)

Another transliteration for Saowapha. 回

Saowapha (เสาวภา)

Thai. A wife of Rama V and mother to Wachirawut, who as the eldest son of this queen ascended the throne as Rama VI (fig.) in 1910. She was also the mother of Prajadhipok (fig.). Her full name is Saowapha Phongsri and was born as the daughter of King Mongkut and his Consort Queen Piyamawadi Sri Phatcharinthra Mata (ปิยมาวดี ศรีพัชรินทรมาตา), and was hence a full sister of both Queen Sunandha Kumariratana (fig.) and Queen Sawang Watthana. She was eventually bestowed with the title Queen Mother of Thailand by King Rama VII and is also referred to as the Queen Regent. She was born on 1 January 1864 AD and passed away at the age of 55 on 20 October 1919. Her name is usually transliterated Saovabha, and she is also known by the name Sri Phatcharinthra (ศรีพัชรินทรา), which is sometimes transliterated Sri Bajrindra. The Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute in Bangkok (fig.), which also houses the capital's Snake Farm (fig.), is named after her. See also Pig Memorial and POSTAGE STAMPS (1), (2) and (3). 回

Saowaphak Narirat (เสาวภาคย์ นารีรัตน์)

Thai. Name of a royal consort of King Chulalongkorn. She was born as Piu Ladawan (ปิ๋ว ลดาวัลย์) on 26 January 1854 AD. On 15 April 1873, she bore King Rama V a daughter, who was named Chandra Saradavara and bestowed with the title Princess of Phichit. Saowaphak Narirat passed away at the age of 33, on 21 July 1887. She has a memorial at the Royal Summer Palace (fig.) in Bang Pa-in. 回

Sapaakahchaad Thai (สภากาชาดไทย)

Thai name for the Thai Red Cross Society. 回

saphaan (สะพาน)

Thai for ‘bridge’. Also transcribed sapaan and saphan. Some of the more important bridges in Thailand include the Industrial Ring Road Bridge (fig.), i.e. the largest bridge in the Kingdom; the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge (fig.); Krung Thon Bridge (fig.); Memorial Bridge (fig.); Rama VIII Bridge (fig.); Rama IX Bridge (fig.); Kanchanaphisek Bridge (fig.); the Bridge over the River Kwae (fig.); and the wooden bridge of Sangkhlaburi (fig.), said to be the longest of its kind in Thailand. 回

Saphaan Atsadaang (สะพานอัษฎางค์)

Thai. Name of a jetty in the sea, located at the former Royal Summer Palace on Koh Si Chang, in Chonburi Province. READ ON. 回

Saphaan Charoenrat 32 (สะพานเจริญราษฎร์ ๓๒)

Thai. ‘Prosperity 32 Bridge’. Name of an arched bridge that spans Khlong Maha Naak. READ ON. 回

Saphaan Kwai (สะพานควาย)

1. Thai. ‘Buffalo bridge’. Name of an area in Bangkok, named after its local history. In the past, the area was farmed and there was a great need for water buffaloes to work the fields. Hence, a wooden bridge was built over a local canal to allow buffalo traders to send their animals to the area. Also commonly transcribed Sapaan Kwai and Saphan Khwai, or similar. See also kwai and saphaan. 回

2. Thai. ‘Buffalo bridge’. In the past, when the land and roads upcountry got flooded during the rainy season, it was common practice to connect dry areas of land by making a live bridge, formed by water buffaloes. The people would then cross the flooded area by walking over the buffalos' backs. Also transcribed Sapaan Kwai and Saphan Khwai, or similar. See also kwai and saphaan. 回

Saphaan Phon Phracha (สะพานพรประชา)

Thai. Name of an arched and partly covered bridge that spans the Tha Chin River in Suphanburi, and connects the main road towards Chainat to the Sam Chuk City Office and the adjacent Sam Chuk Market (fig.), which is also known as Talaat Roi Pih, i.e. the ‘100-Year Old Market’, because this old-fashioned Chinese community market, complete with wooden shop houses, has retained its authentic Thai character from a century ago. The bridge has a road and staircases for pedestrians on either side of it. This type of arched viaduct with a roof is rather unique for Thailand, yet similar to a style of pedestrian bridges commonly used in Myanmar, especially around Inle Lake (fig.), and is also somewhat reminiscent of the Wind and the Rain Bridges (fig.) found in southern China (fig.). See MAP. 回

sapodilla

See lamut. 回

sapparot (สับปะรด)

Thai term for ‘pineapple’. 回

sappaya (สัปปายะ)

Thai term that means ‘a condition that is suitable for living or carrying out various activities with good results, consisting of the four factors from Thai Buddhism and known as patjai sih, and dialogue, with the former encompassing the 4 things that are necessary for human life, e.g. food, medicine, clothing and housing’. See also sabai. 回

Sappayasaphasathan (สัปปายะสภาสถาน)

Thai compound name that consists of the words sappaya, i.e. ‘a condition suitable for living created by dialogue’; sapha (สภา), meaning ‘council’ or ’body’; and sathan, which translates as ‘place’ or ‘location’. It is the name for the Thai Parliament Building (fig.) in Dusit, located along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, and in short referred to as Ahkaan Rattasapha. Also transliterated Sappaya-Saphasathan, Sappaya-Saphasathaan and Sappayasaphasathaan. 回

Sapria

Name for a genus of parasitic flowering plants (fig.), found in the tropical forests of South and Southeast Asia and that attach themselves to the roots of a host vine, specifically plants of the genus Vitis and Tetrastigma, the latter also being the sole host for parasitic species of the rafflesia. Sarpia flowers are approximately 20 centimeters in diameter and have ten lobe-like petals, which are bright red in colour, with either yellowish or white dots. There are just three species, which all occurs also in Thailand, namely Sapria himalayana, Sapria ram and Sapria poilanei. In Thai, they are generally referred to as krathohn reusih (กระโถนฤๅษี), i.e. ‘reusi's spittoon’, whereas the different species are known separately as krathohn phra reusih (กระโถนพระฤๅษี) or ‘phra reusi's spittoon’, krathohn Phra Ram (กระโถนพระราม) or ‘Rama's spittoon’, and krathohn nang sidah (กระโถนนางสีดา), or ‘lady Sida's spittoon’, respectively. 回

Sapta Matrika (सप्तमात्रिरिका)

Sanskrit. ‘Seven Mothers’. Name for seven goddesses that are worshipped in South India and that are believed to wield great power. They are usually depicted standing or seated alongside each other, each one dressed in a traditional saree of a different colour. WATCH VIDEO. 回

Sapta Sindhava (सप्तसिन्धव)

Sanskrit. Term referring to the seven great rivers mentioned in the Vedas, i.e. the Ganges, Jumna, Sarasvati (now replaced by the small present-day Sarsuti river that joins the Ghaggar river), Satlej, Parushni, Marudvridha and Arjikija. Those are the five rivers of the Punjab along with the Sarasvati, which has since disappeared, and the Indus. Sometimes the term refers to the seven great world seas. See also panjanatie. 回

Saraburi (สระบุรี)

Thai. Name of a province (map) and its capital city in Central Thailand, 110 kms north of Bangkok. READ ON. 回

sarai (สาหร่าย)

Thai term for ‘seaweed’. 回

sarai phuang a-ngun (สาหร่ายพวงองุ่น)

Thai. ‘Clustered grapes seaweed’. Name for a kind of edible green algae from the coastal regions of the Indo-Pacific, with the scientific designation Caulerpa lentillifera. It grows in small clusters on a stem as tiny, soft and succulent bubbles. In English, it is known as sea-grapes or grape algae and is sometimes referred to as green caviar. 回

sarai ruang peung (สาหร่ายรวงผึ้ง)

Thai. ‘Seaweed  honeycomb’. Architectural term for a decorative part, sometimes attached over doorways or windows of traditional buildings, such as temples or palaces. It consists of triangular pieces of carved wood, that seem to droop like jelly or seaweed (sarai) from the lintel on which it is attached, and with a form and pattern that is reminiscent of honeycombs (fig.) that hang from a tree branch (fig.), roof's edge or eave, hence the name. 回

saranae (สะระแหน่)

Thai umbrella name for various mint plants, such as Mentha cordifolia, an edible, aromatic herb commonly known as ‘marsh mint’ and ‘kitchen mint’, and Melissa officinalis, which is commonly known as ‘lemon balm’ or ‘balm mint’. Whereas both plants have small, bright green, serrated leaves, Mentha cordifolia has purplish-brown stems, while Melissa officinalis has green stems. Both species are used in Thai cooking, but also eaten fresh or used as garnish. It is also the source of menthol, a mint-tasting organic alcohol found in its oil, and used as a flavouring as well as to relieve local pain. Saranae is also used for the terms ‘mint’ and ‘peppermint’, which typically refers to certain extracts of the plants from either species. 回

saranai

A Cham-wind instrument, sometimes referred to as the Cham oboe. In Vietnamese, it is called kèn saranai, with kèn being a similar, yet Vietnamese wind instrument, with a double reed and a conical wooden body, which in turn is reminiscent of the North Indian shehnai. The saranai plays an important role in traditional orchestras of the Cham people, and is used on many occasions, such as festivals and funerals. It consists of three main parts, i.e. 1. the reed, made from a palm leaf of a tree with the botanical name Corypha saribus, and attached to a small metal pipe; 2. the body, a hollow wooden cylinder, which tapers soemwhat towards the end and with eight holes, of which seven are placed in a straight line and at equal distances from each other, and the eighth hole at the end on the opposite side of the last of the seven holes; and 3. the bell, made of precious wood and which gradually gets bigger. It is the Cham counterpart of the Thai pih. 回

Saranatrai (สรณตรัย)

See Traisarana. 回

saraphi (สารภี)

Thai name for a flowering shrub or small tree, classified in the family Calophyllaceae and with the botanical designations Mammea siamensis and Ochrocarpus siamensis. It is endemic in Thailand, but also occurs in other countries of mainland Southeast Asia, such as Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. In southern Thailand, it is referred to as sroiphi (สร้อยภี), which is pronounced soiphi. This evergreen tree bears small oval fruits and blooms fragrant yellow or white flowers. 回

Saranrom (สราญรมย์)

Thai. Name of a former palace in Rattanakosin, which in full is generally referred to as Phra Rachawang Saranrom, i.e. ‘Saranrom Palace’. READ ON. 回

Sarasvati (सरस्वती, สรัสวดี)

1. Sanskrit. The Hindu goddess of art and learning. READ ON. 回

2. Sanskrit-Thai. Name of a former river in India, part of the Sapta Sindhava and of which the goddess Sarasvati was originally a personification. When the river dried up in a desert, as mentioned in the Mahabharata, the goddess in question developed an independent identity and got a new meaning. Today the Sarasvati has been replaced by a small river that joins the Ghaggar river and is called Sarsuti. 回

Sarawat Thahaan (สารวัตรทหาร)

Thai for ‘Military Police’, against thahaan sarawat which means ‘military policeman’. Each branch of the Thai armed forces has its own military police force, all abbreviated สห (SH), initials that stand for สารวัตรทหาร (Sarawat Thahaan). See also Royal Thai Police. 回

saree (साड़ी)

Hindi. Name for the traditional dress worn by girls and women in India, as well as in Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Malaysia, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. It consists of a lengthy colourful piece of unstitched cloth, often decorated with glittery flecks and bands, and which is wrapped around the waist and draped over the shoulder. The small glittery mirror-like ornaments stitched on the outside not only reflect the sunlight, but are also meant to turn away evil and bad luck, similar to the mirrors placed over doorways in India (fig.). It is typically between 5 and 6 meters long and the loose end of the saree can also be used to cover the head to act as a headscarf or as a ghunghat (घूँघट), i.e. a ‘veil’. Also transliterated sari or sarih. Compare with kurta (fig.). 回

Sareungka Matsaya (ศฤงคมัสยา)

Thai-Sanskrit. Name of a mythological creature, described as a magical fish with a unicorn, i.e. a single horn, on its forehead. READ ON. 回

sarikah lin thong (สาริกาลิ้นทอง)

Thai. ‘Golden-tongue Myna’. Name of a kind of bird-shaped charm, either in the form of an amulet or a talisman, as a kind of takrut, a scared tattoo, or printed on a pah prachiad, usually in combination with yan-signs and a kata (or sacred script), and is hence also referred to as yan sarikah. As an amulet, it often appears as a pair of birds, usually in a rather simple shape, e.g. carved from wood in a rough way and typically with some yan-signs written on it (fig.), and −if as a pair− often tied together with a small piece of cloth in several different colours and known as pah phrae mongkon. Also transcribed sarika lin tong and often shortened to just sarikah or sarika. See also nok ihyang sarikah. 回

Sariputta (สาริพุทธา)

Pali-Thai. Name of a wandering ascetic monk who, when he encountered the teachings of the Buddha, became one of his chief disciples and one of the Ten Principal Disciples. He often preached the Dhamma and was given the title Dhammasenaapati, i.e. ‘General of the Dhamma’. He is regarded as the founder of the Abhidhamma tradition. Sariputta died on a full moon, just a few months before the Buddha, and having achieved parinippahn. In Burmese religious art he is usually depicted together with Mogallana (fig.), seated in front of a Buddha image. In Thailand he is more likely seen in a standing pose, also in front of Buddha images. In Sanskrit Sariputtra. 回

Sariputtra (शारिपुत्र, สารีบุตร)

Sanskrit-Thai for Sariputta. 回

Sarnath (सारनाथ)

Location, also known as Isipatana, near Varanasi in North India, where the Buddha held his first public discourse after he had attained Enlightenment. This first sermon was given to the panjawakkie or five ascetics in a deer park. Formerly named Mrigadava. See also dhammachakka. See MAP. 回

sarong (โสร่ง)

Thai. Garment consisting of a waistcloth hanging from the hips, as worn in India and in some countries of Southeast Asia. In Thailand the pattern of a sarong often indicates which part of the country one comes from. Girls may wear a similar waistcloth called phah thung (fig.). Burmese style sarongs are usually longer than those worn in Thailand. See also longyi (fig.), pah nung and sabong. 回

sarsom (सरसों)

Hindi for ‘mustard’, i.e. oriental mustard plants of the genus Brassica juncea, a plant related to the edible Brassica campestris, commonly known as Cantonese vegetable or Chinese mustard cabbage (fig.), and in Thai as phak kwahng tung. The seeds of the Indian mustard plant can be prepared into mustard, as well as into mustard oil, while its leaves can be eaten as mustard greens. Many parts of northern India Indian mustard plant fields, as oriental mustard is said to originate from this region, i.e. the foothills of the Himalayas (fig.). The plant and its flowers are confusingly similar to those of rape or rapeseed, another member of the family Brassicaceae, with the botanical name Brassica napus and a leading source in the production of vegetable oil. 回

Sarus Crane

Common name for a species of crane, with the scientific designation Grus antigone. Standing 152 to 156 centimeter tall, the Sarus Crane is the tallest flying bird in the world. It is found in parts of South and Southeast Asia, as well as of Australia. It is easily distinguished from other cranes by its overall grey colour and the bare red head and upper neck, which often also has some black, and the pale to greyish crown (fig.). Its legs are pinkish-grey. In India, this bird is honoured as a bearer of good fortune (fig.). Sarus Cranes pair for life and their faithful nature has led them to be venerated as symbols of marital bliss. To help strengthen their partnerships the cranes perform elegant courtship dances. See also WILDLIFE PICTURES. 回

Sarvanivarana Vishkambhin (सर्वनिवारणविष्कम्भिन्)

Sanskrit. ‘Every Hindrance Obstructing’ or ‘Every Obstacle Impeding’. Name of the mediator bodhisattva, who is one of the Eight Great Bodhisattvas. READ ON. 回

satahban (สถาบัน)

Thai for an institution for higher education. See education. 回

Satahban Kukrit (สถาบันคึกฤทธิ์)

Thai name for the Kukrit Institute, which is named after the former Thai Prime Minister, Momratchawong Kukrit Pramoht, whom in 2009 was named as a World Historic Important Figure by UNESCO. The project to build the institute was begun generating power to celebrate the 100th anniversary of M.R. Kukrit’s birth on 20 April 2011, the day on which the institute was officially opened to the public by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, and which was also commemorated by issuing of a set of four postage stamps on M.R. Kukrit Pramoht (fig.). The institute is located on a 3,500m² plot of land owned by the Treasury Department, and which is part of a public park near Bangkok's financial district. The institue celebrates the life of this extraordinary man and features his achievements both in politics and in society. See also Kukrit Heritage Home and MAP. 回

satang (สตางค์)

Thai. The satang is Thai currency equivalent to one-hundredth part of a baht. Existing coins are the silver coloured coins of 1, 5 and 10 satang, and the brass coloured coins of 25 (fig.) and 50 satang (fig.), although only those of 25 and 50 satang are circulated. See also tambun sai baat (fig.) and satang roo. 回

satang roo (สตางค์รู)

Thai. Name for a satang coin from the reign of Rama V (fig.), which had a round hole in the center in order to string them together to create a higher value or easily carry them around in bulk (fig.). On one side a chakra (fig.), a weapon of Vishnu (fig.) and an element on the coat of arms of the Chakri Dynasty (fig.), is embossed. Compare with fang kong qian, ancient Chinese coins (fig.). 回

Satanih Klahng Krung Thep Aphiwat (สถานีกลางกรุงเทพอภิวัฒน์)

Thai. ‘Bangkok Prosperity Central Station’ or ‘Bangkok Revolutionary Central Station’ (fig.). New name granted by King Rama X for the Bang Seu Grand Station in September 2022, on the request of the Cabinet Secretariat, while additionally, the Royal Household Bureau has informed the Cabinet Secretariat that the King also named the State Railway of Thailand’s (SRT) Light Red Line commuter train route, that runs from Bang Seu (บางซื่อ) to Taling Chan (ตลิ่งชัน), Nakhon Withi (นครวิถี), whereas the Dark Red Line commuter train route, linking Bang Seu (บางซื่อ) and Rangsit (รังสิต), received the official name Thani Ratthaya (ธานีรัถยา). See also Bang Seu Grand Station. 回

satay (สะเต๊ะ)

Thai. Name of any kind of skewered food. READ ON. 回

sathan (สถาน)

1. Thai for ‘place’, ‘site’ and ‘location’. 回

2. Thai name for a species of jasmine, with the botanical binomial designation Jasminum grandiflorum. 回

sathit (สถิต)

Thai for ‘static’, ‘to stand’, ‘to stay’, ‘to remain’, ‘to live’, especially of a person who is in a high position, i.e. ‘to hold a high position’. 回

Sathorn (สาทร)

Thai. Name of an area, a canal (fig.) and a road in Bangkok, which is also transliterated Sathon and which is named after Luang Sathon Rajayukta. 回

Sati (सती)

Sanskrit. ‘The virtuous one’. Name of the first consort of Shiva and an aspect or form of Devi, who in her next life incarnated as Parvati (fig.). She is a personification of the divine Prakriti, the basic matter of which the Universe consists, and took human birth as a daughter of Daksha. As a daughter of the latter she is also known as Dakshayani, and because she has a turmeric-golden complexion she is accordingly also named Gauri, the ‘Turmeric-hued One’. 回

satkona (षट्कोण)

Sanskrit name for a hexagram, i.e. a six-pointed star, which is composed by putting together two equilateral triangles, one pointed up and the other pointed down, with the intersection being the shape of an even hexagon. It is often found as a decorative symbol in Indian architecture, both Muslim and Hindu. In Hindu iconography, the three top triangles of the star represent the Trimurti, i.e. the Hindu divine triad Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva (fig.), whilst the three bottom triangles represent those deities' consorts or shakti, that is Lakshmi, Sarasvati and Parvati respectively, each of whom are positioned on the opposite side of the corresponding male deity's triangle. As such, it represents the union between male and female, and thus creation, akin to the union of the two triangles of the bando held by Shiva, a hourglass-shaped drum (fig.) that represents the primordial sound and rhythm from which the universe emerged. The triangular shape of the drum also represents this concept of creation, i.e. the upward side symbolizes the male creative principle or linga (fig.), the downward side represents the female creative principle or yoni (fig.), and creation begins where the two triangles meet. The satkona is hence sometimes represented with the ohm sign (fig.) in its centre, which represents the primordial sound that was present at the creation of the Universe. The six-pointed star is also used as a mandala, then called satkona yantra. In Islamic architecture and artifacts, the symbol is referred to as the Star of David, a king and prophet of the Old Testament, which is revered by both Muslims and Jews alike. Also transcribed Sadkona or Shatkona. 回

sat lomkheun sangkasih (สัตว์ลมขึ้นสังกะสี)

Thai. ‘Zinc wind-up animal’. Name for a toy animal made from tin. READ ON. 回

sa-to (สะตอ)

Northern Thai name for a briefly deciduous tree to 35 meter high, with a red-brown bark and small buttress roots. It has creamy-white flowers, tightly packed into globular heads on very long, drooping stalks, 30 to 45 centimeters in length. Its strap-shaped, 30 to 45 centimeters long, slightly twisted, pod-like fruit grows in clusters on a swelling known as a receptacle, at the end of a long drooping stalk. They are bright green when young and turn glossy black when mature, with edible seeds arranged horizontally across the pods and clearly visible from the outside. The beans, usually gathered from the wild, are a popular ingredient in several local dishes, such as sa-to phad kung (sa-to seeds stir fried with shrimps - fig.), and can be found on markets, sold in bunches, still in the pod, or just the seeds separately (fig.), sold in plastic bags. The tree is rather uncommon and grows always close to streams. The flowers secrete a nectar and are pollinated by bats. The Thai word sa-to is used to refer to any kind of Parkia Tree (fig.), most commonly Parkia speciosa but also Parkia leiophylla. In addition, there are two subspecies from Central Thailand, i.e. Parkia sumatrana and Parkia timoriana. The pods of Parkia sumatrana are spirally twisted, and its seeds are arranged diagonally across the pods, whereas Parkia timoriana has straight pods, which are slightly swollen over the seeds. Sometimes transcribed sato, sataw or similar, and also known by the names bitter bean, twisted cluster bean and stink bean. 回

sato (สาโท)

Thai rice wine, an not yet distilled, alcoholic beverage. It is traditionally made from glutinous or sticky rice, yeast mixed with a starter culture called look paeng to assist the fermentation process, and water. Steamed sticky rice is mixed with the starter culture and kept in a fermentation tank for three days to allow the starch in the rice to change to sugar. Then water, twice the amount of the rice, is added and a second fermentation takes of about five to seven days to be completed. After this the rice wine is squeezed from this substance and filtered. It is sometimes mixed with fruit juice. It is produced mainly in Isaan where it is usually sold in large earthen jars. Also known as lao-u (เหล้าอุ). See also lao khao. 回

sat prajam wan (สัตว์ประจำวัน)

Thai. ‘Animal per day’. System in Thailand in which each day of the week corresponds with a certain mythological or real animal, that is, the Garuda (fig.) for Sunday, the tiger (fig.) for Monday, a lion (fig.) or horse for Tuesday, an elephant for Wednesday, that is a phlaay or male tusked elephant (fig.) before noon and a phang or female tusk-less (i.e. actually short-tusked) elephant (fig.) for the afternoon or evening, a rat for Thursday (fig.), a Guinea pig (fig.) for Friday and a serpent or snake for Saturday. The choice of animals is derived from the mounts of seven important gods, who in turn are associated with celestial bodies laid out in the dao prajam wan system. Animals assigned to the days of the week vary in the different Southeast Asian countries, and may as well differ locally. In Myanmar (fig.), the animals are the same as in Thailand, but the snake for Saturday is referred to as the naga (fig.). See also wan tua, thep prajam wan, Phra prajam wan and sih prajam wan. 回

Satrud (สัตรุด)

Twin brother of Lakshmana and the incarnation of Vishnu's club. 回

sattaphan (สัตภัณฑ์)

Thai. ‘Altar screen’. A richly decorated heavy screen intended to be placed in front of an altar. They are made explicitly as tamboon making offerings to monasteries and feature seven spiked candle posts, referring to the seven mountains surrounding Mt. Meru (fig.). 回

Sattasoon (สัทธาสูร)

Thai. Name of a giant or yak from the Ramakien. He has a red complexion, has tah jorakae, i.e. ‘crocodile eyes’ in which the eyelid covers the upper-part of the eyeball, and wears a chadah-style crown (fig.). He is the king of Krung Atsadong/Asadong (กรุงอัสดงค์), which is also referred to as Meuang Atsadong/Asadong (เมืองอัสดง). He is an ally of Totsakan, whom he joined in battle against Rama, together with Wirunjambang (วิรุณจำบัง), a prince and a son of thao Lastian (ลัสเตียน), i.e. Asuraphong (อสุรพงศ์), with Nang Ratchada (รัชฎา). 回

Satul (สตูล)

Another transcription for Satun. 回

Satu Lokapala (စတုလောကပါလ)

Burmese. ‘Four Lokapala’ or ‘four keepers of the world’. The four guardians that protect the world by presiding over the four points of the compass. In Myanmar, they are often seen at Buddhist temples and pagodas, usually erected around a tall post, which is decorated at the top, usually with mythological animals, such as the hintha, nagas, etc. They are dressed in royal attire and always in a standing pose, most commonly with the hands brought together as in a respectful greeting, though sometimes they may hold a conch (fig.) or a different attribute each, usually with one of them holding a conch and thus reminiscent of Thagyamin (fig.), the Lord of the Nats. The term is related to the Thai-Pali word jatulohkabahn. Satu is pronounced sa-too. 回

Satun (สตูล)

Thai. Name of a province (map) and its capital city on the southern west coast of the Thai peninsula, 973 kms south of Bangkok. READ ON. 回

Satya (सत्य)

Sanskrit. ‘Truth’. Another name for Krita, first of the four yugas. 回

satyagraha (सत्याग्रह)

Hindi. ‘Insistence on (agraha) truth (satya)’. A term coined and developed by Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (fig.), i.e. Mahatma Gandhi, and which refers to his philosophy and practice of non-violent resistance, which he used in his struggles for social justice in South Africa and against British rule in India. 回

saung-gauk (စောင်းကောက်)

See Burmese harp. 回

Savang Vadhana (สว่างวัฒนา)

Thai. Another spelling for Sawang Watthana. 回

Savatti (สาวัตถี)

Place in India where the Buddha performed a miracle in an attempt to convince disbelievers. 回

Sawang Khiri Tham (สว่างคีรีธรรม)

Thai. Name of a Mahayana Buddhist shrine in Loei dedicated to the Chinese goddess of mercy Kuan Yin, who in Thai is referred to as Phra Mae Kwan Im. The complex, which belongs to the Sawang Khiri Tham Foundation, features a large golden statue of Kuan Yin located on the roof of the Wihaan Maha Bodhisat Kwan Im Phankorn (วิหารมหาโพธิสัตว์กวนอิมพันกร), as well as a building known as Wihaan Phuttha Chayanti (วิหารพุทธชยันตี), which is dedicated to various deities from both Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism. See EXPLORER'S MAP, TRAVEL PICTURE (1) and (2), and WATCH VIDEO. 回

Sawang Watthana (สว่างวัฒนา)

Thai. Name of Sri Savarindira, a consort of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V - fig.), and who is bestowed with the title Queen Grandmother of Thailand, since she is the grandmother of both King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII) and King Bhumipol Adulyadej (Rama IX). She was also the mother of Prince Wajirunhit, the nation's first ever Crown Prince (fig.), whom however died of typhoid at age sixteen, as well as of Mahidol Adulyadej. Queen Sawang Watthana was born on 10 September 1862, as the daughter of King Mongkut and his Consort Queen Piyamawadi Sri Phatcharinthra Mata, which is sometimes transliterated Piyamavadi Sri Bajarindra Mata (ปิยมาวดี ศรีพัชรินทรมาตา), and passed away on 17 December 1955. She was a full sister of both Queen Sunandha Kumariratana and Queen Saowapha Phongsri, all of whom became consorts to Rama V. The 150th Anniversary of the  Chakri  Dynasty  her birth was commemorated with three series of Thai postage stamps, the first one issued on 10 September 2010, the second on 10 September 2011 (fig.), and the third on 10 September 2012 (fig.). She is also known by the name Phra Phanwassah Ayyikah Chao, and the Phra Phanwassah Building (map - fig.) within the compound of the contemporary Somdet Phra Boromma Racha Thewih Na Sri Racha (สมเด็จพระบรมราชเทวี ณ ศรีราชา) Hospital in Chonburi Province, which she founded, is named after her, and today houses a museum dedicated to her majesty (fig.), whilst in the garden a memorial (fig.) contains her statue (map - fig.). She also established the Queen's Housing Resort (fig.), a hospice built on stilts in the sea (fig.), and known in Thai as Reuan Nai Thalae (เรือนในทะเล), i.e. ‘Dwelling in the Sea’ (map - fig.). Pronounced Sawaang Watthanah and also spelled Savang Vadhana. 回

Sawankhalok (สวรรคโลก)

1. A present-day amphur in Sukhothai, in the North of central Thailand and famous for its ceramic earthenware made there between the 14th and 16th centuries AD. Its old name was Sri Satchanalai, nowadays a historical park with ancient ruins and more than two hundred kilns from the past (fig.). See MAP and WATCH VIDEO. 回

2. Name of ceramic earthenware from Sawankhalok made between the 14th and 16th centuries AD. The style was influenced by Chinese art from the Song Dynasty and pottery of this period imported by China, from Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, was called Sangkalok, a mispronunciation of Sawankhalok. A typical characteristic is the tattoo-like design on its figurines (fig.). 回

sawankot (สวรรคต)

Thai. Rajasap for ‘dying’. Also called sinphrachon. See also anchern jut. 回

sawarot (เสาวรส)

Thai for passionfruit. 回

sawatdi (สวัสดี)

Thai. ‘Be blessed’. Official greeting used when first meeting someone and to a lesser extend also when parting. READ ON. 回

Saw Yun (စောယွမ်း)

Burmese. Name of the King and founder of the 14th century Sagaing Kingdom, a small realm on the west bank of the Irrawaddy River near present-day Mandalay, that in 1315 AD gained autonomy of the larger Myinsaing Kingdom, which was ruled by Saw Yun's father King Thihathu, and after whose death Sagaing became fully independent. As the eldest biological son of King Thihathu, Saw Yun had resented and rebelled against his father after the King had appointed Saw Yun's stepbrother as heir-apparent to the throne of Myinsaing, rather than his own son, due to the fact that the latter's mother was a commoner. Instead Saw Yun was made governor of Sagaing, which he consequently seized and made into a rival kingdom. After the split, the remaining part of the Myinsaing Kingdom became the Pinya Kingdom. In full, this ruler is known as Athinkhaya Saw Yun (fig.). He died in 1327, leaving behind four children, three sons and a daughter. All of his sons became king of Sagaing while his only daughter became the mother of the Shan King Thadominbya (fig.), who in 1365 AD founded the Kingdom of Ava. 回

Sayaam (สยาม)

Thai pronunciation for Siam. 回

Sayaam Thewathiraat (สยามเทวาธิราช)

See Siam Thewathiraat. 回

sayaek daang (แสยกด่าง)

Thai name for a succulent ornamental shrub of the family Euphorbiaceae, with the botanical name Pedilanthus tithymaa senior monk or abbot of a monasterydes variegatus. It originates from the Americas and has alternate green leaves mottled (daang) and bordered with pale yellowish, and arranged on thick dark-green zigzag stems, that grow to about 50 centimeters in length. In English, its common name is Devil's Backbone, though it is also known as Zigzag Plant and a variety of other names. 回

sayadaw (ဆရာတော်)

Burmese. An honorific term for a senior monk or abbot of a monastery in Myanmar. The term literally means ‘royal teacher’ and initially referred to the senior monks who taught at the former Burmese royal courts. The more distinguished ones are sometimes referred to as sayadawgyi, with gyi being an affix of reverence meaning ‘great’. See also Nyaunggan Sayadaw and Thathanabaing. 回

sayadawgyi (ဆရာတော်ကြီး)

Burmese. ‘Great royal teacher’. Title of reverence used for a more distinguished sayadaw, i.e. a senior monk or abbot of a monastery in Myanmar. It is the Burmese equivalent of a bishop and comparable to the term Luang Pho used in Thailand. 回

Scaly-breasted Bulbul

Common name for a species of bulbul with the scientific designation Pycnonotus squamatus and which is found in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Burma, Indonesia and Malaysia, as well as Borneo and Brunei. It is characterized by scaly white marks on a black breast and flanks, which distinguishes it from all other species of bulbul. Also distinctive is its black head with a contrasting white throat. It has yellow-olive wings with dark grey primaries, whilst its rump and vent are bright yellow to orange. Its tail is black with tiny white tips on the outer feathers (fig.). This fruit-eating bird is a common resident in southern, peninsular Thailand. In Thai named nok parod ok laai kled. 回

Scaly-breasted Munia

A roughly 11 centimeter tall, small gregarious bird, with the binomial name Lonchura punctulata, and which has at least two subspecies. Adults have a stubby dark bill, plain brown upperparts, often with somewhat paler uppertail-coverts, and a dark brown throat. Its underparts are white, with distinctive brown (in Lonchura punctulata topela - fig.) or black (in Lonchura punctulata subundulata) scale markings, and creamy white undertail-coverts and belly. The sexes are similar (fig.), but juveniles lack the scaly markings and instead have uniform buff underparts, whilst their upperparts are pale brown (fig.). It is a very common resident throughout Thailand, except in parts of the southern peninsula. It frequents open woodland and cultivation, and feeds mainly on seeds. Also known as Nutmeg Mannikin and Spice Finch (fig.), and in Thai as nok kratid khee moo. See also WILDLIFE PICTURES. 回

Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker

A species of bird, with the scientific name Dicaeum cruentatum. It belongs to the family Dicaeidae and the description cruentatum derives from the Latin verb cruentare, which means ‘to stain with blood’ and refers to the male's red or ‘bloodstained’ crown, neck, back, uppertail-coverts and rump (fig.). Besides the red back, males have a white chin, belly and vent, with black bill, legs and feet, whilst the sides of their head and breast is blackish, and their wings blackish blue. Females are brownish olive above with only a red rump and red uppertail-coverts, and pale underparts (fig.). Juveniles are similar to females, but have a slightly darker crown and nape, and no red at all, but instead have orange-tinged uppertail-coverts, and their legs and feet are rather grey, whilst the bill is mostly pinkish-orange with a dark tip (fig.), especially with regards to the lower mandible, whereas the upper mandible may have a more extensive dark tip, sometimes leaving only the base of the upper mandible pinkish-orange. It is found in Southeast Asia, as well as in parts of South and East Asia. In Thailand, it is known as nok sih chomphoo suan, and with a size of a mere 8.5 to 9 centimeters, it is the smallest bird in the country (fig.), together with the Golden-bellied Flyeater (Gerygone sulphurea) and some other species of flowerpecker, such as the Plain Flowerpecker, all with an identical size. See also WILDLIFE PICTURE. 回

Scarlet Milkweed

Common designation for a flowering plant, with the botanical name Asclepias curassavica. It is widely grown as an ornamental garden plant for its yellowish flowers with hanging reddish-orange petals, that bloom in clusters at the extremity of the stems (fig.). The plant also has medicinal value in herbal therapeutically treatments. The stem is used as medication for heart disease and the fresh leaves are used to repel parasites. Also called Blood Flower and Mexican Butterfly Weed, due to its source of food for butterflies. In Thai, it is known as fai deuan ha (ไฟเดือนห้า), which translates as ‘fifth month fire’. 回

Scarlet Minivet

Common name of an up to 22 centimeter tall passerine bird, with the scientific name Pericrocotus flammeus. This Scarlet Minivet is found in tropical and subtropical southern Asia, from the Indian subcontinent east to southern China, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Their habitat consists of forests and well-wooded areas, including gardens, especially in montane regions. There are many subspecies, but of the nominate race, males have a black head and black upperparts, and scarlet underparts. In addition, the tail,  rump and long wings also have patches of red, though the scarlet colour varies across populations, and may be any shade of red or even orange. Females are grey above, with a yellow face and underparts. Otherwise they are similar, but the scarlet colour is replaced by yellow. These birds typically glean for insects, which they sometimes flush out of the foliage by beating their wings. In Thai, this bird is called nok phaya fai yai, i.e. ‘Great(er) phaya fire bird’. In 1980, this bird was depicted on the last stamp of a set of four Thai postage stamps featuring Thai birds (fig.). See also Long-tailed Minivet (fig.) and Short-billed Minivet (fig.). 回

Scarlet Passion Flower

Name of a species of vine and passionflower, that originates from central America and the Amazon region, and has the botanical designation Passiflora coccinea. It is also commonly known as Red Passion Flower and in Thai it is called sri mahlah (ศรีมาลา). Its small wine-red fruits have edible pulp. The vine bears showy flowers, with red petals and white-purple corona filaments that surround the elongated floral axis, that is topped by the ovary, from which sprout three purplish styles with stigmas that consist of lobe-like pads, with a whitish tip and that grow facing downward, while at its bottom the ovary is surrounded by the purplish filaments of the stamen, which have greenish-yellow anthers. 回

Scarlet Skimmer

Name of a tropical Asian dragonfly, native to East and Southeast Asia. It has the scientific name Crocothemis servilia servilia and belongs to the family Libellulidae. Males are scarlet red (fig.), but females are of a dark yellowish brown colour (fig.). Both sexes have transparent wings with yellow and brown venation, and amber wing patches at the base of their wings. Both also have a characteristic black dorsal stripe at the centre of the abdomen. It is also called Crimson Darter and Ruddy Marsh Skimmer, and in Thai it is known as malaeng poh ban boh. See also WILDLIFE PICTURES. 回

Schomburgk's Deer

Name for a graceful species of deer with the binomial name Cervus schomburgki, which occurred in Thailand, but is now extinct. It was dark brown with lighter underparts, while the underside of the tail was white. The stag had the largest antlers of all deer species found in the country, with up to 33 tines. It inhabited the swampy plains of central Thailand, especially in the Chao Phraya River valley. Its natural habitat declined with the rise of commercial rice production and avoiding dense vegetation, they were easy targets for hunters. The wild population of Schomburgk's Deer hence became extinct in 1932, probably due to over-hunting, whilst the last captive animal died in 1938. In Thai it is known as saman (สมัน) or neua saman (เนื้อสมัน) and is displayed on the logo of the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand. 回

scorpion

See maengpong. 回

Scorpion Fly

Common name for a flying insect with the scientific designation Panorpa communis. READ ON. 回

Scott's Market

Former name of a market in Yangon, which was built in 1926 and named after James George Scott, a British civil servant at that time. After independence from British rule, the market was renamed Bogyoke Aung San Market. 回

Scrambled Egg Tree

See song bah dahn. 回

scripture cabinet

A lacquer cabinet used in temple libraries to hold palm leaf Buddhist manuscripts to protect them from humidity, insects, etc. It is placed usually in the ho trai or library, generally a wooden building on pillars placed in a basin to keep creeping vermin out. In Thai called tuh phra thamma. 回

Sea Almond

See hoo kwahng. 回

Sea Anemone

See dokmai thalae. 回

sea bean

Name for a seed of any of a number of tropical plants and trees of which the seeds are dispersed by floating upon the ocean currents. In Thailand this mainly refers to a large seed that sits within a long podlike seed-vessel and grows from a large woody vine with the scientific name Entada rheedii which belongs to the family of Leguminosae-Mimosoideae. The shrub grows along brooks and rivers in the tropical rain forest and drops its seeds one by one from its pod into the waterway where they start to drift towards the sea. Once they have reached the open sea they travel with the ocean currents until they wash up on a beach somewhere, perhaps thousands of miles away from their origin. Sea beans are buoyant because of an air pocket within the seed and their hard outer covering helps them survive their long-distance journey. The seeds can be polished to a nice shine and are made into garlands and jewelry by hill tribe people, whereas children use the seeds in tossing games (fig.) and the pod as a musical instrument. Also called drift seed. In Thai called sabah. 回

sea coconut

Common name for a rare and protected species of coconut palm, with the botanical name Lodoicea maldivica, that bears large seemingly double coconuts and is native to certain islands, hence the name. Its peculiar shape, resembling two kidneys merged together like a Siamese twin, have led to its nickname, i.e. lady's butt coconut. It is so rare and highly prized that a single coconut reportedly can fetch up to 30,000 baht on the market. Also commonly known as double coconut and by the French designation coco de mer. In Thai, it has several designations, including ton maprao faed (ต้นมะพร้าวแฝด), i.e. ‘twin coconut tree’; ton maprao thalae (ต้นมะพร้าวทะเล) or ton taan thalae (ต้นตาลทะเล), i.e. ‘sea coconut’ and ‘sea palm’, respectively; as well as the less flattering maprao toot negro (มะพร้าวตูดนิโกร), i.e. ‘negro's butt coconut’. See also poo maphrao. 回

sea cucumber

See pling thalae. 回

SEA Games

Abbreviation for Southeast Asian Games, a biennial sports event (fig.), that was first held in 1959 and hosted by Bangkok. It was initially organized under the name SEAP Games, i.e. Southeast Asian Peninsular Games, and included the six founding members Thailand, Burma, Malaya, Laos, South Vietnam and Cambodia. When Singapore in 1965 gained independence, it was included as a member in its own right. When in 1977 also Indonesia and The Philippines were included the name was changed to Southeast Asian Games (fig.). Though variable per event and organizing country, the games may have as much as 43 different types of sport (fig.) with some, such as takraw (fig.), being typically Southeast Asian disciplines. Currently, the games have participants from Southeast Asian 11 countries and is regulated by the Southeast Asian Games Federation, which is supervised by the International Olympic Committee and the Olympic Council of Asia. Present countries include Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, The Philippines, Singapore, Brunei, and East Timor. So far, Thailand has hosted the event six times, the last time in 2007, in Nakhon Ratchasima. Its logo consists of a ring of ten circles, one for each of the the ten ASEAN nations. When the games were first held in 1959, under the then name SEAP Games, the logo had just six circles, one for each of the founding member countries (fig.). 回

sea grapes

See sarai phuang a-ngun. 回

Sea Gypsies

See Chao Le. 回

seahorse

See mah nahm. 回

sea jelly

See maeng kaphrun. 回

Sea Roach

See malaeng saab thalae. 回

SEATO

Abbreviation of ‘Southeast Asia Treaty Organization’. Formally established on 23 February 1955 in Bangkok, though the initial treaty was signed on 8 September 1954, as a unified response and collective defense against Communism in China and Southeast Asia, with the support of the United States and as part of the Truman Doctrine, which sought to create collective bilateral defense treaties. During the inaugural meeting, chaired by the Thai foreign minister prince Wan Waithayakon, it was announced that SEATO's headquarters would be located in Bangkok. Besides the US and Thailand, initial members included Great Britain, France, Australia, New Zealand, The Philippines, and Pakistan, which was included because East Pakistan, today's Bangladesh, was geographically close to Southeast Asia. Later, also Taiwan became a member, while South Korea and South Vietnam joined as dialogue partners. During the Vietnam War, the US sought to make the regional conflict into a SEATO collective defense problem, but failed to do so, as members did not agree to help each other militarily. As a result, first Pakistan and later France withdrew from the organization, which eventually was formally dissolved on 30 June 1977. After all, during the first conference, then prime minister Phibun Songkram had told the delegates, that the organization's goal was to ‘preserve freedom and peace with honour, and promote economic and social wellbeing’, rather than promising direct military support. Its flag and logo consists of a sky blue field with a white shield, longitudinal lines, which are blue on white, but reverse to white on blue in the lower right quadrant, and in the middle is a yellow stalk, with seven levels and a pinnacle. Whereas blue symbolizes peace and stability, yellow stands for prosperity, and the lower right quadrant refers to Southeast Asia, the working area of the organization. The seven levels of the stalk are understood to refer to the initial number of country members, headed by the pinnacle, which may either refer to the US, as the initiator of the treaty, or to Thailand, a main player and the initial host, as well as the country where the organization's headquarters were located. 回

sea urchin

Name for a typically spiny, often globular animal, that lives on the seabed and of which a wide variety of species exist. They belong to the phylum of echinoderms, which also includes sea cucumbers, i.e. their closest relatives. These creatures move about slowly, either crawling with tube-like tentacles or pushing themselves with their spines. They feed primarily on algae but some species also eat slow-moving or sessile (immotile) animals. Among their predators are sea otters, starfish, and humans, notwithstanding their often razor-sharp spikes that in some species are also venomous. The most dangerous sea urchin is the Toxic Flower Urchin (Toxopneustes pileolus) which occurs in the Indo-West Pacific and is capable of delivering extremely painful and medically significant stings when touched. It has venom injecting fangs that deliver a poison that may stay in the victim's system and can keep stinging for years. In Thai known as men thalae, i.e. literally ‘sea porcupine’. In English, they are also nicknamed Hedgehogs of the Sea, as they not only resemble hedgehogs but also because the name urchin derives from the old French term herichun, which means ‘hedgehog’. Sea urchins can live for up to 200 years. 回

sedge

See kok. 回

see (สี)

1. Thai. ‘Peel’ and ‘rub’. To mill or husk (rice). Also transcribed sih or si, as in silom. See also rohng see khao. 回

2. Thai for ‘colour’, ‘paint’ and ‘dye’. Also transcribed si or sih. 回

sek (เสก)

Thai. To charm, to cast a spell. As in sekpao. The term is also used to express blessings, in which water is sprinkled or poured out, as in rod nahm mon. See also kong hod. 回

sekpao (เสกเป่า)

Thai. To charm or cast a spell (sek) by muttering a magic formula and blow (pao) with the mouth as if to transfer the magic to the object or person. This practice is usually performed by a senior monk, a village headman or an elder to bless or wish someone good luck prior to a long journey, an important task ahead, etc. 回

self-mummification

See sokushinbutsu. 回

sema (เสมา)

See bai sema. 回

sen (เส้น)

Thai unit of length, equal to 40 meters. 回

Sena (সেন)

Bengali. A Hindu dynasty in East India during the 12th century AD, following the Pala dynasties and which school of art is known as the Pala Sena style. 回

seng-phe (เซง-เพ)

Thai. A Thai Yai sweet from the province of Tak, cooked from black (deep purple) sticky rice, sugarcane juice and coconut milk, and baked or grilled, with coconut cream topping. 回

Seni Pramoht (เสนีย์ ปราโมช)

Three-time Prime Minister of Thailand, i.e. from 17 September 1945 to 13 January 1946, from 26 February 1975 to 14 March 1975, and from 20 April to 6 October 1976. Between his second and third term, his brother Kukrit Pramoht (fig.) was Prime Minister, i.e. from 14 March 1975 to 20 April 1976. Usually transcribed Seni Pramoj or Seni Pramoch, but actually pronounced Seni Pramoht (Pramote). 回

Sentosa

Name of a popular resort island in Singapore, located off the southern coast of Singapore, separated from the main island of Singapore by a channel of water and known for its diverse range of attractions, entertainment, and recreational activities. It is accessible by its boardwalk, a road, a monorail, and a scenic cable car that offers breathtaking views of Keppel Harbour and the South China Sea. The island has a network of walking trails and boasts a wide array of attractions catering to various interests. Some notable ones include Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, and Adventure Cove Waterpark. It is also home to several pristine beaches,, a range of accommodations, and world-class golf courses. It also features natural beauty and greenery for those who appreciate nature and wildlife and there is a Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom and Sentosa Nature Discovery. The island offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to fine dining restaurants. Resorts World Sentosa houses a shopping complex where visitors can find various retail outlets and entertainment options.  The name Sentosa is Malay and means ‘Tranquility’ and drives from the Sanskrit Santosha, meaning ‘Satisfaction’. Through history, the island has always been of strategic importance and is home to four ancient forts. During World War II is was a British military fortress and the base of the Royal Artillery, but under Japanese occupation it became home to a POW camp. After WWII, the island had a for a while a basic military training camp and the coast artillery was replaced with Gurkha infantry units. Today, Sentosa no longer has a military presence or any significant military activity. WATCH VIDEO. 回

sepparoot

Penan. Term for branchless, straight, natural wooden stems, that are stripped bare of their bark, after which fine wooden curls are sliced from the pale whitish sapwood at different intervals, yet leaving these curled wooden strips attached on one end, so that they hang around the stick like dangling ornaments. The ca. 2 meter tall sticks are created to honour the forest and its animals on which the Penan people depend for their livelihoods, and are placed in the ground to pay respect to the animals the Penan hunt and to appease their spirits. 回

serban

Malay. Term for a turban, which in Malaysia is still worn as part of the traditional dress of the sultans (fig.). 回

sericulture

The production of silk, also known as silk farming. 回

serpent star

Another name for brittle star. 回

sesame

Name of an East Indian plant with the botanical name Sesamum indicum. It has about 20 species, whaich are found in tropical and subtropical regions, and is cultivated for its oil-yielding seeds, which may be brown, white (fig.) or black, and are rich in calcium, magnesium and iron. Myanmar, India and China are global commercial hubs for the cultivation and production of black sesame seeds. White seeds are black seeds that have been hulled while brown seeds are white seeds that have been enhanced by toasting. Sesame is an annual plant that grows to about a meter tall, with opposite lanceolate leaves which are between 4 and 14 centimeters long. It bears white to purple, tubular flowers (fig.), which are 3 to 5 centimeters long. However, there are also some wild varieties. One of those, found in northern Thailand, has broad leaves and stalks of which the upper parts are covered with small, 1 to 3 centimeters long, hairy calyces, that are green in colour and grow horizontally, and each of those contains around three tiny seeds. When dried, sesame seeds are edible and are used to make candy bars (fig.). It is said that sesame seeds have a soporific effect and it is given to children to induce sleep, cf. Sesame Street which is broadcast before children's bedtime. In Thai called nga and candy made from it is called nga lua and nga tad. See also krayahsaad and nga mon. 回

Sesame Leaves

See nga mon. 回

Sesha (शेष)

See Shesha. 回

Sethi Khamfan (เศรษฐีคำฝั้น)

Thai. Name of the eight son of Prince Chai Kaew of Lampang and thus a descendant from the house of Thipchakratiwong. Between 1805 and 1815 he also governed as the ruler of Lamphun. Later, from 1823 to 1825, he was a Chao Luang, a Siamese vassal prince who ruled as the third king of Lan Na under the suzerainty of Rattanakosin. See also list of Thai kings. 回

seua (เสือ)

Thai for ‘tiger’. Tigers are native to much of eastern and southern Asia and the subspecies native to Thailand is known as the Indochinese tiger, which in Thailand still occurs in the wild, mostly in National Parks. A good way to see tigers in the kingdom is in Sri Racha Tiger Zoo in Chonburi province, which claims a population of 200 tigers, a large facility though the infamous Xiongsen Bear and Tiger Mountain Village (map - fig.) in scenic Guilin (fig.), in southern China, with an alleged 1,800 animals, seems to posses the world's biggest captive population of tigers, but this grim and outdated wildlife park has been accused of being a front for the sinister and illicit trade in tiger body parts and sale of tiger bone wine, and allegedly featured a live feeding show, in which calves were put into tiger enclosures to be mauled to death and eaten in front of whooping family audiences. In Sai Yok district, just North of Kanchanaburi town, is the infamous Wat Pah Luang Tah Maha Bua Yanasampannoh (วัดป่า หลวงตามหาบัว ญาณสัมปันโน), a forest temple commonly referred to as the Tiger Temple (map - fig.), where a Buddhist monk and his supporters rehabilitated domesticated tigers back into the wild. Yet, the temple over time became a tourist attraction and soon allegations were made that the tigers were being mistreated for commercial gain, which led to the confiscation and removal of the ca. 150 tigers by the Thai authorities, and the temple was closed to the public. Though this wild animal is most commonly orange with near white underparts and dark vertical stripes, there are also so-called white tigers (fig.) which are- though technically known by the name chinchilla albinistic- not albinos, but tigers with a genetic condition that all but eliminates fur pigmentation. Besides this, tigers are often depicted in Thai art and in temples. They are associated with reusi who is usually dressed in tiger fur and dwells in, or in the proximity of caves. Shiva is often seated on tiger fur (fig.). In Thai mythology tigers are related to Saturday and the mount of Phra Sao, the god of Saturday, is a tiger. In Chinese and Indian mythology, the tiger is the seat of Zhao Gong Ming and Parvati, respectively. The tiger is also the third animal in the Chinese zodiac. Since its forehead (fig.) has a marking that resembles the Chinese character wang (王), meaning ‘king’, the tiger is in Chinese culture regarded as the King of the Animals (fig.) and represents royalty and fearlessness. Since tigers represents strength they are often associated with certain aphrodisiacs and although they have no scientific medical value traditional Chinese medicine promotes tiger based drugs. Also called phayak (พยัคฆ์), especially in mythology, and in Sanskrit called viagra. See also tiger claw (fig.). See also THEMATIC STREET LIGHT and WATCH VIDEO. 回

seua dao (เสือดาว)

Thai. ‘Starry tiger’. Common Thai name for the Leopard. 回

seua fai (เสือไฟ)

Thai. ‘Fire tiger’. Name for the Asian Golden Cat. 回

seua kohng (เสือโค้ง)

Thai. ‘Arching tiger’. See Camouflage Tree. 回

seua kruy (เสื้อครุย)

1. Thai. A long white ceremonial gown as worn by a brahman priest or a candidate for the Thai Buddhist monkhood (fig.). 回

2. Thai. An academic gown. They can be of any colour, depending on the university's choice or tradition. It typically has one main colour, often indigo, black (fig.), red or white which is then embroidered with colourful borders and/or ribbons, defining the related faculty or specialty. They are worn by students on the day of their graduation when they receive their diploma and sometimes by academic staff and graduate students on special occasions. They are usually available from rental shops (fig.) around the universities. 回

seua laai mek (เสือลายเมฆ)

Thai name for the Clouded Leopard. 回

seua mo hom (เสื้อม่อฮ่อม/เสื้อหม้อห้อม)

Thai. A blue cotton farmer's shirt, sometimes worn with a similar pair of trousers and with a pahkaomah around the waist. The blue colour of the shirt is acquired from a plant called krahm, known in Northern Thailand as hom, by soaking it in water. Next this solution is mixed with chalk and left to soak for two days and nights (fig.). The blue substance obtained is subsequently blend with a liquid gained from water mixed with ashes, a procedure that gives a reaction making the blue chalky substance suitable for submerging the cotton. Next, cotton material is immersed repeatedly until it has absorbed the dye, and hung to dry in the sun (fig.). This process is repeated up to four times, until the typical dark blue colour is obtained. Its name is derived from the earthen pot (mo/moh) in which the shirt (seua) is dyed in. Native to northern Thailand it is often produced in Phrae province. Also transcribed seua moh hom. 回

seua phaew (เสือแผ้ว)

Thai. ‘Clean tiger’. A name for the Fishing Cat, next to seua pla. 回

seua pla (เสือปลา)

Thai. ‘Fish tiger’. A name for the Fishing Cat, next to seua phaew. 回

seua racha pataen (เสื้อราชปะแตน)

Thai. ‘Royal pattern shirt’. Name of a long-sleeved jacket with a Mandarin collar or Mao collar, i.e. a stand-up collar, that if white in colour and with five buttons is since 1980 used as the uniform of civil servants, and is the reintroduction of an earlier form of uniform that since the reign of King Rama V until 1932 was commonly worn by civil servants, and consisted of a white jacket worn over a navy blue johng kraben, a loin cloth that is passed between the legs and tucked in at the wearer's lower back (fig.), and that was actually referred to as the purple cloth and typically worn with closed-toe shoes. It was introduced after King Rama V visited India in 1872, and the name racha pataen is a distortion of its original designation racha pattern. Since its initial introduction, the jacket has been popular with the upper and middle classes for a long time. See also TRAVEL PICTURES. 回

seubchatah (สืบชะตา)

Thai. ‘To follow, to descend from, or to succeed in fate, fortune or luck’. Animist ritual ceremony, initially especially in northern Thailand, but nowadays increasingly also found in other places around the nation. In English, it is usually referred to as the succession ceremony and in it a sacred white thread, called sai sin, is spanned across the interior of the bot, wihaan or even outdoors, usually starting from a Buddha image, often the temple's principal statue. It will be connected to the heads of the monks and the people sitting underneath it on the floor, or on chairs if outdoors, with additional vertical threads hanging from the horizontal ones. This physical connection symbolizes the spiritual one. A shaman will conduct a rite whilst Buddhist monks are invited to preach. The ceremony, believed to prolong life, can be held at any time and its host will reward the shaman for his service, usually with cash, though the event may also be organized by a temple with a senior monk leading it. During this event in northern Thailand, sometimes also wooden logs, known as mai kham or mai kham sarih, are placed against a bodhi tree to symbolically support it (fig.). Compare with Toh Chatah Chiwit. WATCH VIDEO (1) and (2). 回

seung (ซึง)

Thai. A traditional musical instrument, somewhat comparable to a guitar. It is made from hardwood and has either four or six strings, which are most often made of steel wire, and nine raised frets. This plucked lute-like string instrument is from the northern region of Lan Na and somewhat like the krajab pih, an ancient instrument used in the classical music of central Thailand. Also transcribed sung. 回

seung swing (เซิ้งสวิง)

Thai. ‘Net song and dance’. A Thai folk dance from Isaan, in which the participants dance while holding a small fishing net called swing, and usually also have a small bamboo basket on their belt to hold the day's catch and which in Thai is known as a takong or kong (fig.). The term seung refers to a kind of musical song-and-dance from northeastern Thailand. See also POSTAGE STAMP. 回

Seven Gods of Fortune

Name given to seven deities worshipped in Japan, most of whom derive from the Eight Immortals of China. READ ON. 回

Seven-striped Barb

Common name for a species of freshwater fish, with the scientific designation Probarbus jullieni, and also commonly known as Jullien's Golden Carp. READ ON. 回

Sgaw (สะกอ)

Another spelling for Sakoh. 回

shadow play

See nang thalung and nang yai. 回

Shaikh Ahámad-e Qomi

See Sheikh Ahmad Qomi. 回

Shaikh al-Islam (شيخ الإسلام)

See Sheikh al-Islam. 回

Shaivism

The cult of Shiva (fig.), which has several different sects and which philosophy claims to encompass all facets of Hindu thought. Its followers are known as Saivites (fig.). See also Shivaism. 回

sha ji xia hou (杀鸡吓猴)

Chinese. ‘Kill the chicken to scare the monkeys’. According to an ancient story, there once was a man who raised monkeys, which became more and more naughty and ill-behaved as they grew up, often destroying his belongings. Hence, one day the man caught a chicken and assembled the monkeys. He killed the cock in front of the monkeys and told them that if they wouldn't behave and stop causing trouble, they would end up just like the chicken. The monkeys were frightened and became obedient ever after. Hence this ancient idiom is used metaphorically to mean to frighten somebody by punishing someone else, i.e. to punish an individual as an example to others. 回

Shakra (शक्र)

Sanskrit. ‘Mighty’, ‘powerful’ or ‘the mighty one’. An epithet for Indra, used mainly in Buddhism. It can also mean ‘radiant’ or ‘bright’, and in mythology it refers to the Adityas, whereas shakradhanus means ‘rainbow’. See also Thagyamin. 回

shakti (शक्ति)

1. Sanskrit. ‘Strength’. The consort of a Hindu god personifying the female energy of that god. So is Parvati e.g. the shakti of Shiva. In Hindu art, if the shakti is depicted on the side of the corresponding male deity, it is usually to his left, i.e. closest to his heart, which suggests that he holds her close to his heart. In Thai sakti (ศักติ). 回

2. Sanskrit. ‘Strength’. The name of the Hindu goddess of strength. 回

shakuhachi (尺八を)

Japanese. Name for a type of bamboo flute played by the mendicant monks the Komuso sect of Zen Buddhism in Japan during the 17th to mid-19th century AD, in order to beg for alms and for meditation so as to achieve the desired state of Emptiness. 回

Shakya (शक्य)

Sanskrit. ‘Capable, able’. The clan or tribe to which prince Siddhartha belonged who became the historical Buddha. In Pali Sakya. 回

Shakyamuni (शक्यमुनि)

Sanskrit. ‘Sage of the Shakya clan’. A name for the historical Buddha. In Pali Sakyamuni. 回

shaman

Name for a priest from Shamanism, in which  some priests enter a trance and consequently make contact with the supernatural. Compare with the Burmese natsaw. 回

Shamanism

A primitive belief in which some priests or shamans enter a trance and consequently make contact with the supernatural. 回

Shambhala (शम्भल)

Sanskrit. Name of a mythical kingdom in Tibetan Buddhism, said to be ruled by Maitreya, a bodhisattva now living in Tushita heaven and waiting to be reborn as a future Buddha in order to restore faith. In Thai, known as Samphala (ศัมภละ), which is sometimes also transcribed Shambhala. 回

Shampoo Ginger

Common name for a species of wild ginger with the botanical name Zingiber zerumbet and which is also referred to as Wild Ginger, Bitter Ginger and Pinecone Ginger. It has thick bracts that are initially reddish-pink below and yellowish-green above, and eventually turn completely dark pinkish-red. It bears white flowers that sprout from the bracts. In Thai, it is known as kratheua. 回

shamuak (ฉมวก)

Thai for harpoon, a barbed, fish-hook-like missile with a rope attached, for catching fish. It is not completely legal. See also pramong. 回

shan (山)

Chinese for ‘mountain’. 回

Shan (ฉาน, ရှမ်း)

1. Thai-Burmese. An ethnic group of Tai origin, that lives for the most part in Myanmar's Shan State (fig.), but also inhabits adjacent regions of Thailand and China. There are five major groups, which are further divided into numerous subgroups. Among the five major groups are the Tai Yai (fig.), who also live in West and Northwest Thailand, where they are also known as Ngiaw. 回

2. A language spoken mostly in Myanmar's Shan State, but also in Kachin State, in northern Thailand, and in Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture of Yunnan Province in southern China. 回

Shan baun-bi (ရှမ်းဘောင်းဘီ)

Burmese. ‘Shan pants or Shan trousers’. Name for long baggy trousers, akin to the Thai kaangkaeng le (fig.), and commonly worn by men in rural Myanmar, especially as part of the traditional dress of many of the ethnic groups. The Shan baun-bi is lightweight and very spacious. It is worn wrapped around the waist and folded over to keep them in place (fig.), which differs from most Thai models that are usually tied with a string from the back, to form a belt. Also transcribed Shan baung-bi. 回

Shan Cai (善财)

Chinese. ‘To cherish wealth’, usually referred to as ‘Child of Wealth’. Chinese name for Sudhana, a youth from India who was seeking Enlightenment and on his quest studied under 53 teachers, including Avalokitesvara and Maitreya. He is finally taught that wisdom only exists for the sake of putting it into practice. In the Tale of Kuan Yin and the Southern Seas, he is described as a disabled boy who was given a new, healthy and handsome body, by jumping of a cliff after Kuan Yin, leaving his disabled body in the ravine. After this, he became Kuan Yin's acolyte and is therefore at times portrayed at her side (fig.), often together with Long Nu, a later female acolyte of Kuan Yin. In another story, described in the Precious Scrolls, Shan Cai became her acolyte after she appeared in the middle of the ocean. This episode is often portrayed in art with the boy walking on the waves across the sea to join with her (fig.). In the classical Chinese novel Journey to the West, he is known as Red Boy. Also transliterated Shan Tsai. 回

Shan Da Wang (山大王)

Chinese. ‘Great Mountain King’. Name of a Mountain-Protection King, a deity in Taoism. READ ON. 回

shan zi (山子)

Chinese. ‘Mountain offspring’ or ‘small mountains’. Name of a Chinese art form in which miniature sceneries and landscapes are carved from small to medium-sized natural rocks and boulders (fig.), usually in its interior after it has been split open, while using and maintaining existing outlines in the natural shape of the rock. The finished work is typically put on a decorative wooden stand. See also Chinese rockery. 回

Shaolin (少林)

Chinese. Though the name literally translates as ‘Young Forest’, it in fact refers to the location of a Buddhist monastery in China's Henan province (fig.). Shao (少) refers namely to Mount Shaoshi (少室山), the ‘Young Home’ mountain on which the monastery is built. Lin (林) indeed means ‘forest’, but the full name of the monastery is in reality Shaolin Si (少林寺), with the word si (寺), meaning ‘Buddhist temple’ or ‘court office’. The name should thus be interpreted as ‘Buddhist temple in the woods of Mount Shaoshi’. The monastery initially served as a defense against bandits (fig.) and contributed to the development of a martial arts form (fig.), consisting of nineteen different types (fig.), which lay at the origin of Chinese fighting sports, including the renowned Kung Fu (fig.). It is practiced by the fighting monks (fig.) of the Shaolin order in China, but has followers worldwide. Now the term Shaolin is more often than not used in reference to this martial art, though the Shaolin monastery also stands at the origin of Zen Buddhism. Monks that ordain into the order and accept to follow its nine rules are given the jieba, i.e. nine rounded marks that are burned onto the head with incense sticks (fig.), in three rows of three (fig.). The temple is also known for its famed Pagoda Forest (fig.). See also Bodhidharma. See also TRAVEL PICTURES (1) and (2). 回

Sharanga (शारङ्ग)

Sanskrit. Name of the celestial bow of the Hindu god Vishnu and one of the objects that surfaced during the Churning of the Ocean of Milk. This bow, along with Shiva's bow, Pinaka, was crafted by Vishvakarma, the divine architect and maker of weapons. Once, Brahma wanted to determine who was the superior archer between Vishnu and Shiva. To this end, he orchestrated a conflict between the two, which escalated into a fierce duel, disturbing the balance of the universe. Vishnu eventually emerged victorious, defeating Shiva with his arrows. Brahma, along with other gods, intervened and declared Vishnu the winner. In his anger, Shiva gave his bow, Pinaka, to an ancestor of King Janaka, Sita's father. Following this, Vishnu entrusted his bow, Sharanga, to a sage who, over time, passed the bow down to his grandson, Parasurama, an incarnation of Vishnu. After completing his life's mission, Parasurama handed Sharanga to Rama, with whom it became primarily associated. 回

shark

See chalaam. 回

Sha Wujing (沙悟净)

Chinese. ‘Sand understanding purity’. Name of a fallen immortal who was punished by the Jade Emperor for breaking a crystal goblet. He was exiled from heaven, where he previously was the General who Raises the Curtain, and sent to the mortal world as a hideous sand demon. On earth he dwelt in the quicksand river where he attacked innocent passers-by and received weekly punishments from heaven. In search of powerful bodyguards to protect the monk Xuanzang on his Journey to the West, he was recruited by Kuan Yin in exchange for relief from his punishment. After the pilgrimage he was rewarded and transformed into a luohan. His weapon of choice is a Monk's Spade (fig.), i.e. a double-headed staff, with a crescent-moon blade at one end (fig.) and a spade at the other. In English, he is also known as Friar Sandy. See also . 回

Sheikh Ahmad Qomi

Arabic. Name of a Persian expatriate trader who lived in Siam for 26 years. He was born in the Islamic centre of Tainajahar in Qom and is said to have arrived at Ayutthaya in 1602 AD, during the rule of King Naresuan the Great, of whom he received official permission to stake out two suitable sites, one for his residence, another for his religious and trading quarters. His mission to Siam was twofold: firstly, to open a trading post, secondly, to bring Islamic teachings of the Shi'ite Sect to Siam. Having settled, he embarked upon developing his Islamic mission and his trading post, and within a decade the Shi'ite Chao Sen Sect was firmly established and the trading mission prospered. While becoming somewhat prosperous on the way, he gained a reputation of being an honest and reliant merchant. It was during this period that he married a young lady by the name of Ob Chuay who bore him two sons and a daughter. The eldest son, was named Chuen, the second one died before reaching his teens, while his daughter was named Chi. He rose to favour with King Song Tham (1610-1628), who appointed him to the highest administrative positions and put him in charge of Siam's entire trade with the Middle East and Muslim India. He was appointed the first holder of the title of Chularachamontrih, a Thai version of the Muslim office of Sheikh al-Islam. His later descendants, known as the Bunnag family, continued their prominent role in Siamese politics and trade, well into the Bangkok period. Also transcribed Shaikh Ahámad-e Qomi. 回

Sheikh al-Islam (شيخ الإسلام)

Arabic. ‘Islamic tribal elder’ or ‘revered old man of Islam’, sometimes translated as ‘Islamic scholar’. A title and office of superior authority in the issues of Islam which is supposed to be bestowed upon followers of the Koran who acquired deep knowledge of its principles and are of age, wise in Islam and reputable among peers. In Thailand this office is called Chularachamontrih. Also transcribed Shaikh al-Islam, Sheikh ul-Islam or similar. 回

She Jiang (蛇将)

1. Chinese. ‘Snake General’ or ‘Military Commander [with a] Serpent’. Name one of the four guardians at the gate of Tian Zi Dian (天子殿), i.e. the ‘Palace of the Son of Heaven’, usually referred to in English as the ‘Emperor's Hall’ in Diyu, the Taoist Hell, the other three guardians being the Chicken Feet Ghost Ji Jiao Gui (fig.), the White Impermanence Bai Wu Chang (fig.), and the Eagle General Ying Jiang (fig.). This demon has a black complexion, downward growing fangs, bulging eyes, and holds a snake, which in the middle is curled around his neck. At Fengdu Ghost City (fig.), the Snake General is displayed next to the Eagle General (fig.). 回

2. Chinese. ‘Snake General’. Name of a military commander, who served under the Black Warrior Xuanwu, i.e. the Taoist protector god of the North (fig.), together with the Tortoise General Gui Jiang (fig.). 回

sheng (笙)

Chinese. Name for a traditional Chinese reed mouth organ, said to be one of the oldest Chinese instruments still in use today. The modern version consists of a metal mouth-piece and vertical bamboo and sometimes also metal pipes. The name sheng may also be used to refer to a small bottle gourd wind instrument with bamboo pipes (fig.), which is played by some Thai hill tribes (fig.), who often dance and swing the instrument from side to side while playing (fig.). Due to the multiple pipes (fig.), its sound is polyphonic. The latter is comparable to the lu sheng, another gourd-shaped musical instrument, but with larger bamboo pipes or reeds (fig.). 回

Shen Nong (神农)

Chinese. Literally ‘god of agriculture’, a designation for the first farmer and founder of herbal medicine, as well as an early emperor and the god of husbandry. He is traditionally seen as one of the three Emperors who are credited for creating Chinese culture, together with Fu Xi and Huang Di (fig.), the Yellow Emperor. He is the author of China's earliest book on pharmacology compiled systematically. It is believed that he lived around 2700 BC. According to legend, Shen Nong was a also skilled ruler, a creative scientist and patron of the arts, commonly known as the ‘divine healer’. He is attributed with inventing tea, as well as discovering the medicinal benefits of numerous other plants. His farsighted edicts required, among other things, that all drinking water be boiled as a hygienic precaution. One summer day while visiting a distant region of his realm, he and the court stopped to rest. In accordance with his ruling, the servants began to boil water for the court to drink. Dried leaves from a nearby bush fell into the boiling water, and a brown liquid was infused into the water. As a scientist, the Emperor was interested in the new liquid, drank some, and found it very refreshing. And so, according to legend, tea was discovered in 2737 BC. Regularly transcribed Shennong or Shen Nung, and in Thai also referred to as Iamtee or Iantee. His title as emperor was Yan Di, which means ‘Flame Emperor’, and as one of the Si Shi, he is known as Shen Nong-shi. See also cha. See also LIST OF CHINESE RULERS. 回

Shesha (शेष)

Mythological serpent with a thousand heads, symbol of the cosmic waters and the animal on which the Hindu god Vishnu rests, especially during the nights that separate two cosmic periods. Also known as Ananta and Vasuki. 回

shi (世)

Chinese for ‘generation’ and also a homonym with shi, which is part of the word shi liu, meaning  ‘pomegranate’. See also thabthim. 回

shi (石)

Chinese for ‘stone’ and part of the word shi liu, meaning  ‘pomegranate’, one of the three fruits of abundance, together with the peach (fig.) and the fingered citron (fig.). See also thabthim. 回

Shield Sundew

See ya fai takaad. 回

shiitake (椎茸)

Japanese. Name of an edible mushroom native to East Asia. It is found as an ingredient in many Asian dishes, especially in Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean cuisine. On markets it is usually sold in dried form. In Japan it is considered a great delicacy and is believed to prevent premature aging, as well as to be a remedy for poor blood circulation, respiratory diseases, liver problems, fatigue and weakness. The mushrooms, called ‘shii’ (椎) in Japanese, are traditionally cultivated on dead tree logs. In English the shiitake is known as Chinese black mushroom or black forest mushroom, in Thai as hed hom and in Chinese as xianggu (香菇). Both in Thai and Chinese the names literally mean ‘fragrant mushroom’. Other appellations are the Chinese word songrong (松茸) and the Japanese matsutake (松茸). Although pronounced differently these words are written with the same Chinese or Kanji characters. The first character in Chinese is pronounced song (松) and also means pine. 回

Shikra

Common name for a small bird of prey, that grows to about 36 centimeters tall, and which was given the scientific designation Accipiter badius. READ ON. 回

shi liu (石榴)

Chinese for ‘pomegranate’, one of the three fruits of abundance, together with the peach and the fingered citron. See also shi and thabthim. 回

shin (ရှင်)

Burmese equivalent of the Thai word Phra, i.e. a word used as a prefix to the name or title of a monk or noble, as in Shin U Pagok and Shin Thiwali, though it can also mean ‘to live’ or ‘to be alive’, as well as ‘to be sharp’ with regards to sight or light. 回

Shin Byu (ရှင်ဖြူ)

Burmese. ‘White Nobleman’. Another name for the nat Maung Minshin (fig.). See also shin and compare with the term shinpyu. 回

Shindaw (ရှင်တော်)

Burmese. One of 37 nats that belong to the official pantheon of spirits worshipped in Myanmar. In life, this nat was a young Buddhist novice and the son of a monarch of the Inwa era, who purportedly died of a snakebite. In iconography, he is sometimes portrayed wearing a robe and carrying a fan over his shoulder, somewhat reminiscent of the monk Shin Thiwali (fig.), yet with out an alms bowl or walking stick, but holding prayer beads (fig.) instead. Compare with the nats Mintha Maungshin, who was also a novice monk, and Thandawgan, who according to one version also died of a snakebite. See also LIST OF BURMESE NATS. 回

Shingon (ရှင်ကုန်း)

Burmese. ‘Lady Humpback’. Name of a female spirit that belongs to the official pantheon of 37 nats worshipped in Myanmar. In life, this nat was a maid of King Thihathu of Ava and accompanied him to the battlefront, yet died on her way back to the capital. In iconography, she is usually portrayed walking with limp while her arms are dangling besides her. See also LIST OF BURMESE NATS. 回

Shingwa (ရှင်ကွ)

Burmese. Name of a female nat and one of the 37 that belong to the official pantheon of spirits worshipped in Myanmar. She is the nat representation of the sister of Mandalay Bodaw and was killed together with her brother for hiding the brothers Shwe Hpyin Gyi (fig.) and Shwe Hpyin Nge (fig.), who had been negligent in their duties and were executed on the orders of King Anawrahta (fig.) for not having placed bricks near a pagoda. Her brother was killed for not properly supervising them. See also LIST OF BURMESE NATS. 回

Shin Mihne (ရှင်မိနှဲ)

Burmese. Another name for Shin Nemi. 回

Shin Mway Loon (ရှင်​​မွေးလွန်း)

Burmese. Name of a legendary Kinnari Princess in Myanmar, usually described as the local equivalent of the female protagonist in the western romance Romeo and Juliet, her male counterpart being the Kinnara Prince Min Nandar, while their story is known as Shin Mway Loon nae Min Nandar (fig.). Shin Mway Loon was the beautiful daughter of the Queen of the Kingdom of Okkalapa, i.e. present-day Yangon, who died prior to giving birth to Shin Mway Loon, who was still in her womb and discovered to be still alive only during the royal cremation ceremony. She was freed and taken to the palace, but believed to be a bad omen because she was born on the cremation ground, the poor princess grew up lonely and isolated in her palace, until she became the lover of Prince Min Nandar. MORE ON THIS. 回

Shin Mway Loon and Min Nandar

Name of a legend in Myanmar, about a Kinnari Princess and Kinnara Prince, whose love for one another led to their tragic end. READ ON. 回

Shin Mway Loon nae Min Nandar (ရှင်​​မွေးလွန်း နဲ့ မင်းနန္ဒာ)

Burmese name for the tragic love story of Shin Mway Loon and Min Nandar, a popular egend of love and romance in Myanmar. MORE ON THIS. 回

Shin Nemi (ရှင်နဲမိ)

Burmese. Name of a female spirit that belongs to the official pantheon of 37 nats worshipped in Myanmar. In life, she was the daughter of the younger sister of Maung Tint De (fig.), who died from a sudden illness and became the nat Thonbanhla (fig.). She died of grief from her mother's death, at the age of two. She is also known by the names Shin Mihne, Ma Nemi and Ma Hne Galay, of which the latter means ‘Little Lady with the Flute’. See also LIST OF BURMESE NATS. 回

Shin Nyo (ရှင်ညို)

Burmese. ‘Brown Nobleman’. Another name for the nat Taungmagyi (fig.). 回

shinpyu (ရှင်ပြု)

Burmese ordination ceremony in which a boy under the age of 20 becomes a samanera, i.e. a novice in Theravada Buddhism. The ceremony is very similar to the Poi Sang Long festival as celebrated in Thailand's Mae Hong Son province (fig.), and when an elephant is used (fig.), it is reminiscent of the Buat Chang Had Siew ordination ceremony (fig.) held annually in Sri Satchanalai. The boys are dressed in princely attire, including the salwe (fig.), as a symbolic reference to prince Siddhartha, who abandoned his throne  in exchange for a secular life of self-detachment. The ceremony is regarded as a tradition of coming of age and the merit gained by the act goes in part to the boy's parents, especially the mother, who for the occasion will be referred to as Medaw. Hence, those who are not blessed with a male child will seek for an orphan or a boy from a poor family in order to also receive merit. A Buddhist monk will shave the boy's head and after the ceremony is over, the boy will be ordained and spend some time −however short it may be− in the temple, to study the dhamma (fig.). In contrast to Thai novices, who shave their hair and eyebrows once a month, on wan kohn, Burmese novices shave their heads once a week and do not not shave off their eyebrows (fig.). Also transcribed shinbyu. 回

shin thamanei (ရှင်သာမဏေ)

Burmese term for a Buddhist novice, otherwise known as samanera (fig.), a word that is closer to the Mon and Shan terms for it. Whereas the word shin is a term similar to the Thai word Phra, which is equally used as a prefix to the name or title of a monk or noble, as in Shin U Pagok and Shin Thiwali, the word thamanei is the exact term for a novice of the Buddhist Order. Since the latter refers to someone who studies the dhamma, it certainly is reminiscent of the Thai word tam, which is pronounced thamma when referring to the Pali equivalent, and thus suggests perhaps a similar etymological root. Also spelled shin thamane. See also Medaw and Mintha Maungshin. 回

Shin Thiwali (ရှင်သီဝလ)

Burmese. Name of a deified Buddhist monk in Myanmar, who in Thailand in known as Phra Siwalih. However, in Thailand he is portrayed holding a klot, i.e. an ecclesiastical umbrella (fig.), and in Myanmar he is usually portrayed with a Burmese-style pad bai lahn or pad yot, i.e. a fan used by monks (fig.). Due to his extraordinary luck factor, that brings peace in the form of happiness and good luck to anyone who worships him, his statue, amulet or relic, he is in Myanmar particularly prayed to by people taking exams, and is believed to have been born from an ear. See also shin. 回

Shinto (神道)

Japanese. ‘Way of the gods’. A Japanese religion that focuses mainly on ritual practices, such as ancestor worship, in order to establish a connection between the present and the past. Whereas the word shin can be translated as ‘God’, ‘deity’, ‘soul’ or ‘spirit’, the Kanji To is the Japanese equivalent of the Chinese principle of Tao, and means ‘path’, ‘way’, ‘road’, ‘morality’, ‘truth’ and ‘method’. Shinto also encourages animism and the concept of arahitogami, in which a deity appears as a human being. See also torih, kare-sansui, and Taoism. 回

Shin U Pagok (ရှင်ဥပဂုတ္တ, ရှင်ဥပဂုတ်)

Burmese. Name of a deity worshipped especially in Myanmar, who is believed to guard and have authority over water. READ ON. 回

shiok

Singaporean term for ‘great’, ‘fantastic’ or ‘delicious’. 回

Shiva (शिव)

Sanskrit. ‘Auspicious’ and ‘fortunate’. One of the three prominent gods of the Hindu Trimurti, the pantheon that also includes Brahma and Vishnu (fig.). He represents both destruction and regenerating energy. In Thai art, he is generally depicted with a blue complexion (fig.), his hair plaited in a jata, a thick tuft, and wearing a brahman cord (fig.) which is sometimes depicted as a snake. He has an urna on his forehead (fig.) and a crescent (fig.) in his hair, or alternatively on his crown. His many attributes include a trisula or trident and an axe, and he is often seated on tiger fur (fig.). The Bengal tiger's skin was originally an emblem of Shiva, as he killed the ‘tiger of desire’ and used its skin as his meditation seat. His consort is Devi, who is also known as Parvati (fig.) and Uma. He is the lokapala of the Northeast and his mount is the water buffalo or bull (fig.) Nondi, also called Nandi (fig.). He is often found depicted in a cosmic dance and as ‘lord of dance’, a representation of cosmic truth and energy known as Nataraja (fig.). Shiva is originally a pre-Vedic deity of India, going back to the period of the Indus Valley Civilization. Later, in the Vedic period,  Rudra, the Vedic god of storm, merged in him and made him the destroyer in the Hindu trinity. He is also identified by the names Isana, Ishana (fig.), Prithivi and Rudra, and in Thai he is known as Siva, Siwa, Thaksin, and Idsuan, and is usually referred to with the prefix Phra, e.g. Phra Idsuan (fig.). In khon performances, he is represented with a khon mask in the form of a human head with a white complexion and wearing a golden chadah-like crown, with a peak which is somewhat inflated in the middle. When portrayed in combination with Vishnu, he is known as Harihara (fig.), and in combination with Uma as Ardhanari (fig.). His symbol is the tri-pundra, a sectarian mark consisting of three horizontal bars, often with a red dot in the centre, that he and the followers of his cult –known as Saivites (fig.)– may wear, usually applied on the forehead, using ashes. Shiva has two daughters, i.e. Asokasundari and Naak Galyah, who is a winged serpent (fig.). Sometimes spelled Shiwa. See also Wat Phra Siwa Chao, Shaivism, Shivratri, Shivalinga, linga and pladkik. 回

Shivaism

First and most important form of veneration in Angkor practiced in Cambodia from the 5th century AD and in which the Hindu god Shiva is worshipped by the name Bhadeshvara. See also Shaivism. 回

Shivalinga

See linga. 回

Shivratri (शिवरात्रि)

Sanskrit. Annual Indian religious festival held on the moonless fourteenth night of the new moon in the Hindu month of Phalgun, i.e. in February or March, in which the marriage between Shiva and his shakti is celebrated. His consort, who personifies the female energy of this Hindu god, is then worshipped in all her different aspects and avatars, including both benevolent appearances, such as Devi, Parvati and Uma, and her terrible or malicious forms, such as Durga and Kali. The deeper significance of this festival is the union between the male and female energy, as is also symbolized in the linga and yoni, which in combination represent creation (fig.). Some devotees believe that it was on the auspicious night of Shivratri that Shiva manifested himself in the form of a linga, whilst it is also generally assumed that it was on this night that Shiva performed the tandava, the cosmic dance of the primal creation, preservation and destruction. Devotees observe strict fast in honour of Shiva, though many go on a diet of fruits and milk, while some do not consume even a drop of water, as it is believed that sincere worship on this auspicious day absolves a person of sins and liberates one from the cycle of reincarnation. Worshippers take an early ritual bath, preferably in river Ganges (fig.) and –if possible– at Varanasi, the Indian city which is claimed to be the permanent abode of the god Shiva. Devotees also ritually immerse a Shivalinga with milk, honey or water, at a nearby Shiva temple. During the celebrations, temples are decorated with lights and parades (fig.) are held featuring the main protagonists of Shaivism. The name of the festival is a compound of the name Shiva and ratri (रात्रि), which signifies ‘night’. The name of this event can thus be translated as ‘the night of Shiva’. Sometimes transliterated Shivaratri and also known as Maha Shivratri, i.e. ‘the Great night of Shiva’. 回

Short-billed Minivet

Common name for a 20 centimeter tall passerine bird, with the scientific designation Pericrocotus brevirostris. Adult males have a black head and black upperparts, and scarlet underparts. In addition, the tail,  rump and long wings also have patches of red, though the scarlet colour varies across populations, and may be any shade of red or even orange. Females are grey above, with a yellow face and underparts. Otherwise they are similar, but the scarlet colour is replaced by yellow. It is very similar to the Scarlet Minivet, but with a different wing pattern and a shorter bill, and the female is a slightly darker grey above. See also Long-tailed Minivet (fig.). 回

Shou (寿)

Chinese. Name of the Chinese god of longevity. In iconography, he is always depicted with a semi-bald, oversized, abnormally high forehead and carries a staff with a dragonhead and a Peach of Immortality in his hands. He may sometimes also carry a nahm tao bottle gourd. He is one of the Three Star Gods, together with Fu and Lu, a trio which in Thai is known as Hok Lok Siw (fig.). As the symbol of good health and long life he is usually used for the sixth cycle birthday celebration or as birthday wish. The flowerhorn, a kind of fish with a hump on its forehead (fig.), which is often called by the Chinese name luohan, refers to him. WATCH VIDEO (1) and (2). 回

Shri (श्री)

Sanskrit. Goddess of fortune and wealth, and consort of the Hindu god Vishnu. Also known as Lakshmi. See also Sri. 回

shrimp

See kung. 回

Shrimp Plant

Common name of an evergreen shrub, with the botanical name Justicia brandegeeana. It grows about one metre tall and bears white flowers that emerge from red, overlapping bracts, of which the shape is reminiscent of that of a Mantis Shrimp (fig.), hence the shrub's common name. It belongs to the family Acanthaceae, and is related to the Golden Shrimp Plant (fig.). In Thai, it is known by the name Saai Rung (สายรุ้ง), i.e. ‘Rainbow’. 回

Shrivijaya

See Srivijaya. 回

Shudra (शूद्र)

The lowest of the four social classes from the Hindu caste system (varna) in India originally consisting of prisoners of war and conquered people, but later unskilled labourers and fallen members from the three higher castes. Members of this cast are considered to have no second birth. Besides the lowest caste, there are also the dalit or the ‘untouchables’. These are pariah or social outcasts, that are considered less than human and as such are not part of any of the social classes, not even the lowest. The latter group formerly included slaves. Also Sudra. 回

Shuicao (水草)

Chinese. ‘Wet grass’ or ‘water grass’. Name of a Chinese warrior-deity, who serves as the main protector-god of horses. He is usually depicted seated on a horse and with six arms. He has multiple faces, with a vertical third eye on his main face. He holds a variety of attributes, including a sword and a kuandao (fig.). He is associated with both the Mazu (fig.) and the Mawang (fig.), a group of Chinese deities worshipped since antiquity as the co-protectors of horses, especially during the Ming Dynasty. Horses are believed to bring power and prosperity, as in the past they were the possession of powerful rulers and generals. Hence, today, statuettes of horses are often found in the offices of many a Chinese manager or businessman. 回

Shun Feng Er (顺风耳)

Chinese. ‘Ears [that hear the sounds] taken with the wind’, sometimes also translated as ‘Favourable Wind Ears’, ‘Wind-accompanying Ear’ or ‘Fair Wind Ears’. Name of a mythological figure from Taoism. He and his brother (fig.) are said to have been the ruthless generals Kao Ming and Kao Chuch, treacherous brothers in the Shang Dynasty, who having died in a battle on Peach Blossom Mountain, remained there and haunted the place. One day, the Mother-Ancestor Tian Hou (Matsu/Mazu) passed through there and the brothers began to compete for her affection. To get rid of them Tian Hou challenged them to a fight: if any of them won, she would marry him but if she won, they both would have to serve her forever. Tian Hou won and the brothers serve her still, looking and listening for those who need her help. In art and temples Shun Feng Er is generally depicted having his hand to his ear and usually with a brown or red complexion, and sometimes with two horns. He is found in mainly Tian Hou temples, on the left side of the offering tables. He is habitually depicted together with his brother Chien Li Yen (Chin Lei Ngan) who will then be to the right of the altar and is easily recognized by the hand shielding his eyes from the sun and who is usually portrayed having a green complexion, and sometimes with one horn. However, their position to the altar and colours may be reversed, thus it is their unique positions of the hands that are the conclusive keys for recognition. However, occasionally, he and his brother may be portrayed in the tou liu bi iconographic style, with three heads and six arms, and with a different complexion, as is the Yu Huang Dian (玉皇殿), i.e. the Jade Emperor Palace Hall at Fengdu Ghost City (fig.). Also called Shun Fung Yi. 回

Shwedagon (ရွှေတိဂုံ)

Burmese. Large bell-shaped pagoda (fig.) or chedi in Yangon (Burma), covered with 60 tons of gold and adorned with precious gemstones. Its construction is said to have started in the 5th century AD to house eight hairs of the Buddha. Throughout the centuries it was enlarged, restored and rebuilt. 回

Shwegugyi Phaya (ရွှေဂူကြီးဘုရား)

Burmese. ‘Great Golden Cave Pagoda’. Name of a Buddhist gu-style temple in Bagan, which was constructed in 1140 AD, during the reign of King Alaungsithu (fig.), who was also assassinated here. READ ON. 回

Shwegugyi Zedi Taw (ရွှေဂူကြီးစေတီတော်)

Burmese. ‘Golden Cave Pagoda’. Name of a Buddhist temple in Bago, located just south of Kyai Pun Bhura Kyee (map - fig.). It consists of a hill with the remnants of an older temple, topped with stupa and zedi, while newer structures, including rows of standing Buddha images and a row of concrete monks on alms begging round, surround the central mound. See MAP, PANORAMA PICTURE, and TRAVEL PICTURE. 回

shwe gyi do (ရွှေချည်ထိုး)

Burmese. ‘Gold thread embroidery’. Name of a kind of appliqué tapestry, which is heavily embroidered with gold thread or filigree (fig.), and often decorated with small pieces of coloured glass and/or small mirrors. It is typically used as Burmese temple cloths and is usually made in relief using kapok as a filling. It is also referred to as kalaga (fig.), which translates as ‘curtain’ or ‘screen’. 回

Shwe Hpyin Gyi (ရွှေဖျင်းကြီး)

Burmese. ‘Golden Chaff the Elder’, but usually translated as ‘Goldpot the Greater’. One of 37 nats worshipped in Myanmar. He is the elder brother of Shwe Hpyin Nge (fig.) and a son of Popa Medaw (fig.) with U Byatta (fig.). He is also known as Shwe Hpyin Naungdaw and Min Gyi, and together the brothers are also referred to as Taungbyone Min Nyinaung (fig.), i.e. ‘Brother Lords’ (fig.). See also LIST OF BURMESE NATS. 回

Shwe Hpyin Naungdaw (ရွှေဖျင်း နောင်တော်‌)

Burmese. ‘Goldpot the Elder’. A synonym for Shwe Hpyin Gyi. 回

Shwe Hpyin Nge (ရွှေဖျင်းငယ်)

Burmese. ‘Golden Chaff the Small One’, but also translated as ‘Goldpot the Younger’. One of 37 nats worshipped in Myanmar. He is the younger brother of Shwe Hpyin Gyi (fig.) and a son of Popa Medaw (fig.) with U Byatta (fig.). He is also referred to as Shwe Hpyin Nyidaw and Min Le, and together the brothers are also known as Taungbyone Min Nyinaung (fig.), i.e. ‘Brother Lords’ (fig.). See also LIST OF BURMESE NATS. 回

Shwe Hpyin Nyidaw (ရွှေဖျင်း ညီတော်)

Burmese. ‘Goldpot the Younger’. Another appellation for Shwe Hpyin Nge. 回

Shwe Indein Zedi (ရွှေအင်းတိန်စေတီ)

Burmese. ‘Golden Indein Pagoda’. Name of a Buddhist temple complex in Indein, a village near Inle Lake in Myanmar's Shan State, and which consists of a group of ancient Buddhist pagodas. READ ON. 回

Shwe Mawdaw Phaya (ရွှေမောဓောဘုရား)

Burmese. Name of a Buddhist pagoda in Bago. READ ON. 回

Shwe Mje Hna (ရွှေမျက်နှာ)

Burmese. ‘Gold Face’. Nickname for Min Mahagiri, the Burmese nat who is also known by his birth name Maung Tint De, and who is depicted with a golden complexion (fig.), as well as of his sister Hnamadawgyi. Also transcribed Shwe Myet-hna. See also LIST OF BURMESE NATS. 回

Shwe Nabay (ရွှေနံဘေး)

Burmese. ‘Golden Side’. Name of one of the 37 nats that belong to the official pantheon of spirits worshipped in Myanmar, and whom is also known as Naga Medaw (fig.). Her name is also transcribed Shwe Nabei and Shwe Nanbei. See also LIST OF BURMESE NATS. 回

Shwenandaw Kyaung (ရွှေနန်းတော်ကျောင်း)

Burmese. ‘Golden Palace Monastery’ or ‘Golden Palace School’. A teakwood edifice in the traditional Burmese architectural style, that originally was part of the Mandalay Royal Palace (fig.) and occupied by King Mindon Min (fig.), the founder of Mandalay (fig.). After his father's death and believing the building to be haunted by his father's spirit, King Thibaw Min, the son and successor of King Mindon Min, had it dismantled and relocated to a plot of land adjacent to the Atumashi Monastery (fig.), where it was reconstructed as a monastery in honour of his father. Initially, the wooden edifice was covered with gold leaf, which gave it its name. However, over time the gold vanished due to effects of rain and weather, though small remnants of gold are still noticeable in the many crevices of the outer carvings of the Buddhist and mythological figures that adorn the monastery. Today, the Golden Palace Monastery is the single remaining major original structure of the Royal Palace, after the latter was bombed and largely destroyed in World War II. Originally being a palace building, it features a stone mango staircase (fig.) leading up to the monastery. See also TRAVEL PHOTOS and MAP. 回

Shwe Nawrahta (ရွှေနော်ရထာ)

Burmese. ‘Golden Warrior’. Name of a spirit that belongs to the official pantheon of 37 nats worshipped in Myanmar. He represents the merged personalities of two historic Burmese rulers, i.e. Governor Anawrahta of Ava, the son in law of King Minkhaung I of Ava, who in 1407 AD was captured and killed by the troops of King Razadarit of Hongsawadih, and Nawrahta of Yamethin, grandson of King Minkhaung II of Ava and the eldest son of King Thihathura, who was executed by drowning after a failed attempt in 1501 to assassinate King Shwenan Kyawshin. In iconography, the nat Shwe Nawrahta is sometimes portrayed holding a polo stick and a ball. See also LIST OF BURMESE NATS. 回

Shwesandaw Phaya (ရွှေဆံတော်ဘုရား)

Burmese. Burmese. ‘Golden Hair Pagoda’. Name of a Buddhist pagoda in Bagan, which was built in 1057 by King Anawrahta. READ ON. 回

Shwe Sitthin (ရွှေစစ်သင်)

Burmese. ‘Golden Warrior’. One of 37 nats that belong to the official pantheon of spirits worshipped in Myanmar. In life, he was a royal prince, the son of King Uzana II, i.e. Saw Mon Nit, the last ruler of the Pagan Empire, who reigned as viceroy from 1325 to 1368 AD, initially under the suzerain of the Pinya Kingdom and from 1365 onward under the Ava Kingdom. Prince Shwe Sitthin died after his father imprisoned  him for neglecting his duties and playing while going to war. In iconography, he is usually portrayed in a seated pose, wearing a chadah-style golden crown and holding a sword by its hilt, upright in his hand. In Thai, he is known as Chwe Jidteng (ชเวจิดเตง). See also LIST OF BURMESE NATS. 回

Shwe Taung Khauk Swe (ရွှေတောင်ခေါက်ဆွဲ)

Burmese for Shwe Taung Noodles. 回

Shwe Taung Noodles

A popular noodle dish from Myanmar, which consists of yellow egg noodles in a soup or gravy made of chicken broth, coconut milk (fig.), turmeric, curry or dahl powder, fish sauce and lime juice, served with small chunks of chicken meat and topped with slices of fresh red onion, some crisp fried noodles, tiny krupuk crackers, some fresh greens and a sliced hardboiled egg. Also transliterated Shwaytaung Noodles and in Burmese known as Shwe Taung Khauk Swe. It is somewhat similar to the Shan inspired dish Nan Gyi Thohk, but which uses thicker noodles and lacks the tiny krupuk crackers. 回

Shwe Kyat Kya Phaya (ရွှေကြက်ကျဘုရား)

Burmese. ‘Fallen [at the] Golden Chicken Pagoda’. Name of a Buddhist monastery along the Irrawaddy River in Mandalay (fig.), adjacent to Sagaing Bridge. According to legend, King Anawrahta (fig.) was presented with a girl named Sawmonhla, who was a daughter of the then Shan King, in order for him to marry her and become his Queen. However, King Anawrahta didn't want her as his wife and sent the girl back home. On her way back to the Shan Kingdom, Sawmonhla came to a stupa erected in the honour of a previous chaht or incarnation of the Buddha, when he was born in the form of a Golden Chicken. Here, it is said that the girl lost a golden earring, which fell from her ear, and which explains the name of the temple, as kya means ‘to fall’. See MAP. 回

Shwezigon Phaya (ရွှေစည်းခုံဘုရား)

1. Burmese. ‘Golden Dune Pagoda’ or ‘Golden Stupa Pagoda’. Name of a Buddhist temple near Bagan. READ ON. 回

2. Burmese. ‘Golden Dune Pagoda’ or ‘Golden Stupa Pagoda’. Name of a Buddhist temple in Ava, located at the south-westernmost corner of the ancient city (fig.), along the city moat (fig.) and within the old city walls (fig.). See MAP. 回

Shyama (श्याम)

Sanskrit. ‘Black’ or ‘dark’. Another name for Mahakali, a terrible form of Devi. It is also the word of which the name Sayaam or Siam, the old name of Thailand, derives. 回

Si (ศรี)

See Sri. 回

si (สี)

See see. 回

sia chihp yah sia sat (เสียชีพอย่าเสียสัตย์)

Thai. ‘Lose [your] Life Don't Lose [your] Honesty’ or  ‘Waste [your] Life Don't Waste [your] Promise’, which is usually translated as ‘Better to Die Than to Lie’ or ‘Death Before Dishonesty’. Motto of the National Scout Organization of Thailand, in Thai known as Kha-na Look Seua Haeng Chaht or in short as look seua, and which is also part of their emblem (fig.). 回

Siam (สยาม)

1. The ancient name for Thailand, until 1939. The term is derived from the Sanskrit word shyama meaning ‘dark’ or ‘black’, a name given by the Khmer on the grounds of the dark complexion of the Thai. Until the Garuda or Krut (fig.) was introduced as the national state symbol and arms of Thailand in 1911, the then nation of Siam had no official arms, yet used a Royal Arms that is known in Thai as trah phaen din and which is today still used as the coat of arms of the Royal Thai Police, appearing in on the hats (fig.) and helmets (fig.) of all police officers. Siam may also be transcribed —and is properly pronounced— Sayaam. 回

2. Name of an area in Bangkok's Pathumwan District, that has a large number of shopping malls, one of them housing Southeast Asia's biggest aquarium known as Siam Ocean World (fig.). It is located at the intersection of the North and South Lines of the Bangkok Mass Transit System, opposite of Siam Square, a market-like area with many smaller shops. The name is also frequently used for other establishments as well as for shopping malls in other areas, such as Icon Siam (fig.) in Thonburi, which has an interesting musical fountain (fig. - map) and Thailand’s first floating museum (fig.). Also transcribed Sayaam. See MAP and WATCH VIDEO. 回

Siamang (เซียมมัง)

Thai-English. Common name for a kind of gibbon, with the scientific name Symphalangus syndactylus, and sometimes listed with the other gibbons, as Hylobates syndactylus. It is the largest of the lesser apes and can be twice the size of other gibbons (fig.). It has extremely long arms, that are longer than its legs. Remarkably, it has two fingers on each hand that are fused together, hence the name syndactylus. It has a black fur, with long, dense, shaggy hair, which on the head has a neat centre parting, and an inflatable gular pouch, which inflates when the animal is calling, producing a call that may carry for several kilometers when conditions are right (fig.). Whereas unmated individuals live solitary, family groups consist of two adults and up to three small and large juveniles. The female gives birth to a single young (fig.) every two or three years. There are two subspecies recognized of Siamang, i.e. the nominate race, commonly referred to as the Sumatran Siamang (Symphalangus syndactylus syndactylus), and the Malaysian Siamang (Symphalangus syndactylus continentis). It is found in the rainforests of Thailand, Malaysia, and Sumatra. In Thai, it is also commonly known as chanie dam yai (ชะนีดำใหญ่), i.e. ‘dark black gibbon’. 回

Siamese Alexandrine Parakeet

See Alexandrine Parakeet. 回

Siamese Brow-antlered Deer

Common name for a medium-sized deer, indigenous to Southeast Asia and with the scientific name Cervus eldi siamensis, one of three recognized subspecies of Cervus eldii, the others being Cervus eldi eldi (Manipur Brow-antlered Deer) and Cervus eldi thamin (Burmese Brow-antlered Deer). The Siamese Brow-antlered Deer is most commonly found China, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand, more specifically in Thailand's Isaan, near the border with Cambodia. In summer it has short, orange-red to golden-brown hair, with pale patches on the back (fig.), similar to the summer coat of Burmese Brow-antlered Deer (fig.), but without a dark dorsal line (fig.). Annually in winter, its fur turns dark brown and stags will grow antlers. Its legs are long and thin, and males have strongly curved antlers, of which the main beams grow more backwards than upwards and with a long brow tine, which gave this species its name. Generically the three subspecies are also known as Eld's Deer and in Thai as la-ong and lamang, as well as la-ong lamang, and the specific name for the Siamese Brow-antlered Deer is la-ong phan thai (ละองพันธุ์ไทย) or lamang phan thai (ละมั่งพันธุ์ไทย). 回

Siamese Cat

A typical Thai breed of cat and one of the first Oriental species to be distinctly recognized. They have blue, almond shaped eyes and a rather triangular head. Its fur is of a creamy base colour with dark points on its snout, ears, lower legs and paws, genitals and tail. Original Siamese Cats (fig.) are squint-eyed and have a kink at the end of their tail, features that are regarded as flaws in the West and thus have largely been eliminated through selective breeding, but  in Thailand they are still common, especially in stray cats whereas housecats are usually bobtailed. According to legend, one day, when all the men of Siam had left their homes to defend the kingdom, just two temple cats, a male named Tien and a female named Chula, had remained in order to guard a golden goblet belonging to the Buddha and kept in a sacred temple. Tien got bored with the task and after mating, he left Chula in order to search for someone else to come and look after the goblet. Chula was so dedicated to her duty to guard the goblet alone, that she didn't risk to take her eyes off of it, not even once, so well she guarded the goblet that she turned cross-eyed. And just in case she would fall asleep, she wrapped her tail around the goblet’s stem so tight, that she developed a kink in it. Later, all her kittens were born with these features, and this continued to happen to later generations, even up to this present day. Another story tells that there once was a princess who used her cat's tail to keep her rings while she was bathing, with the kink in the tail preventing the rings from falling off and going lost. In the West the Siamese cat is named after the former name of Thailand, but in Thailand it is called wichian maat, meaning ‘golden thunderbolt’. 回

Siamese Cobra

See ngu hao. 回

Siamese Dog

See sunak. 回

Siamese Fighting Fish

See pla kad. 回

Siamese Fireback

A medium-sized species of pheasant, with the binomial name Lophura diardi and hence also known as Diard's Fireback. Males are around 82 centimeters long, with a bluish grey plumage and a long curved blackish tail. It has a typifying golden-yellow patch on its back, which gave rise to its name, and the plumage of its rump is scaled with dark red and indigo-black. The colour of its legs and feet are pinkish red to crimson. Its head has ornamental black crest feathers an an extensive red facial skin with wattles, whilst the eyes are reddish brown. With a length of around 60 centimeters, females are somewhat smaller and have a brown plumage with scaled black and white wing and tail feathers (fig.). The Siamese Fireback is distributed to the lowland and evergreen forests of non-peninsular and mainland Southeast Asia, and belongs to the family Phasianidae, which includes eight species of pheasants living in Thailand. Since 1985, the Siamese Fireback is Thailand's National Bird, nominated by the Department of Forestry. In Thai, this pheasant species is called kai fah phaya loh. See also kai fah. 回

Siamese Jungle Queen

Common name for a species of butterfly found in South and Southeast Asia, and with the scientific name Stichophthalma louisa siamensis. READ ON. 回

Siamese Narrow-headed Soft-shell Turtle

See taphaab. 回

Siamese Russell's Viper

A venomous and potentially lethal species of snake, with the scientific name Daboia russelii siamensis. It is found exclusively in parts of Southeast Asia, southern China and Taiwan. It has a pinkish-brown body with a vertebral row of large, dark brown, often mango-shaped spots, that are delineated with a black inner edge and a somewhat thinner white outer edge. On both flanks there is a row of similar, yet somewhat smaller mango-shaped spots with less white, placed zigzag against those of the vertebral row above, and all over the body are smaller dark brown spots scattered between the large ones. Occasionally, there may be blotches with a different shape, seemingly as if two spots are merged together, forming a larger blotch and outline, usually with an indistinguishable shape. The tail is similar with all of the above spots gradually reducing in size towards the end, and similar blotches appear on the crown of its head. When threatened, this terrestrial and nocturnal species will make a very loud, continuous hissing sound, that can be quite alarming. Sometimes called Eastern Russell's Viper and in Thai known as ngu maew sao. 回

Siamese twin

Name for monozygotic twins who are joined at some part of the body. The term was coined in Thailand, then still known as Siam, and introduced in the West by Robert Hunter, a Britton who internationally spread word of In and Chan, a Siamese twin born on 11 May 1811, during the reign of King Rama II. The twin was the fifth child of Tai-ai, a Chinese immigrant and his mixed-blood wife Nok, who lived on a raft house in the subdistrict Mae Klong in present-day Samut Songkhram. The newborn infants were conjoined twins, attached to each other at the chest by shared tissue. Hazardous plans to separate them where eventually abandoned and the boys lived on to become real celebrities. Even though living reasonable normal lives public interest in the twins grew and after an audience with King Rama III their recognition was established, allowing them to make a good living from their initial misfortune. They worked in circuses and freak shows, went to live abroad and even got married. They died in 1874. In June 2001 a pair of conjoined crocodiles, that hatched at the Samut Prakan Crocodile Farm and Zoo, were named after the famous Siamese twins. In Thai called faed sayaam. See also EXPLORER'S MAP and TRAVEL PICTURE. 回

Siam Insect Zoo

Name of a museum and live insect facility located in Mae Rim, Chiang Mai. READ ON. 回

Siam Niramit (สยามนิรมิต)

Thai. ‘Siam Created’. Name of a venue in Bangkok's Huay Khwang Distric, that offers a spectacular show of Thailand's arts and cultural heritage (fig.). Performances takes place in a huge theatre, which claims to have one of the largest podia in the world. There are also outdoor attractions, such as music and dance performances, elephant feeding, as well as elephant rides, and there are traditional villages built in the styles of the four regions of Thailand (fig.), where some traditional handicrafts (fig.) and cooking of Thai snacks (fig.) are demonstrated, and which can be enjoyed prior to or after the show (fig.). Due to its success in the capital, a second theatre was opened in Phuket. See MAP. 回

Siam Park

Amusement and water park, located on a 300 rai plot of land in Bangkok's Kannayahw district. The park, which first opened on 1980, is separated into different areas and sub-zones. It features over 40 different attractions and themes, including a giant wave pool, a huge speed slide, a three-storey spiral slide, and several rollercoasters, as well as a learning zone with a wax museum. It is also known as Siam Park City, and in Thai referred to as Suan Sayaam, as well as Suan Sayaam Thalae (สวนสยามทะเล), i.e. ‘Siam Ocean Park’. See MAP. 回

siamsih (เซียมซี)

Thai name for Chinese fortune sticks. In Mandarin known as qiuqian. 回

Siam Serpentarium

Name of an educative establishment that combines a snake museum with a snake farm and nursery, as well as with a thrilling snake show that takes place in an auditorium known as the Naga Theatre. READ ON. 回

Siam Society

Name of an organization that focuses on preserving traditional Thai culture. It was founded on 26 February 1904 in the Oriental Hotel in Bangkok, during the reign of King Rama V and by Thai and foreign intellectuals. Today, the society has an excellent reference library and an ethnological museum exhibiting Thai Folk Art, and also publishes a journal. In Thai, the Siam Society is called Sayaam Samaakom (สยามสมาคม) and is located in Soi Asoke, off Sukhumvit Road. Its emblem (fig.), the head of an elephant on a horse collar-like shield adorned with a lotus bud and flames above, as well as with a garland or pendulum below, was designed in 1926. On the frame of the shield, in Thai, is the society's slogan, i.e. wichah yang hai geut mitraphaap (วิชชายังให้เกิดมิตรภาพ), which translates as ‘Knowledge Gives Rise to Friendship’. Whereas the elephant is the symbol of Siam (fig.), it also represents wisdom and friendship, while the lotus and flames on the frame, reminiscent of those sometimes used in the iconography of Indian deities (fig.), may represent Enlightenment, and the garland the beauty that results from it all. To mark its 100th anniversary in 2004, a commemorative postage stamp (fig.) was issued, with the emblem and an illustration of Ban Khamthiang (บ้านคำเที่ยง), in English known as Khamthiang Memorial House (fig.), a more than 160-year old traditional teakwood house from northern Thailand (fig.), that the Siam Society runs as a museum under royal patronage. See also POSTAGE STAMPS (1) and (2), MAP and WATCH VIDEO. 回

Siam Thewathiraat (สยามเทวาธิราช)

Thai. The guardian spirit of the nation. If depicted when holding a money bag, i.e. the nation's money bag, he is also the protector of the nation's finances and as such is used by Bank of Thailand as its official logo, as was depicted on a postage stamp (fig.) issued in 1992 to commemorate its 50th anniversary. Also transcribed Sayaam Thewathiraat. See THEMATIC STREET LIGHT, POSTAGE STAMP, and WATCH VIDEO. 回

Siam Tulip

Name for a tropical plant with the scientific Latin name Curcuma alismatifolia and native to northern Thailand and Cambodia. It belongs to the family of Zingiberaceae (ginger species) and its flower somewhat resembles that of red ginger (fig.). It is the provincial flower of Chaiyaphum, where they are found abundantly in the wild, especially in the 90 km² Pah Hin Ngahm National Park which is home to one of the most well-known fields of wild Siam Tulips. Although not related to the tulip it may also be referred to as Summer Tulip. Its flowers may be white, pink or purple (fig.). In Thai it has many names, including pathumah and krajiaw (fig.). 回

Siang Khwang

An ancient kingdom in present-day Laos, formerly called Phuan and situated near the ‘field of jars’. Its population is considered to be the ancestors of the Siamese from Central Thailand. In 1830 it was briefly occupied by the Vietnamese but recaptured in 1834 by Luang Phrabang in collaboration with Siam. Also Xiengkhouang. 回

Siang Miang (เซียงเมี่ยง)

Thai. Name of a folk tale from Isaan about a common farmer, who is described as a wise person, well-mannered and witty, but also cunning, which causes him time and again to fight and overcome the problems caused by his own intelligence. The folk tale has been passed on for many centuries. It is prevalent in the north and northeast of Thailand and has different content from a Thai-Laotian folk tale of the Lan Chang era, which is prevalent in the central region and know as Chiang Miang, as well as by the name Sri Thanonchai. Also transliterated Xiang Miang. See also miang. 回

Sida (สีดา)

Thai name for Sita, the consort of Phra Ram in the Ramakien, the Thai version of the Ramayana. She is the daughter of King Totsakan and Nang Montho, but after her birth it was predicted by Phiphek, the younger brother of Totsakan, that the princess would bring ruin to the demon family. Hence, Sida was placed in a bowl and set afloat on a river. It was later found by the hermit Chanok Jakrawat, who adopted the girl. Later, the demon King Totsakan fell in love with Sida, not knowing it was his own daughter, and abducted her. However, Sida was already married to Phra Ram and her abduction sets in motion a struggle between the monkey army of Phra Ram and Totsakan's army of demons. In khon, Sida wears only a chadah-style conical crown (fig.) and no mask at all, whereas in puppetry, she usually has a white complexion, yet her complexion in miniature khon masks is rather human-like, with a skin colour somewhere between faded pink and a very pale yellow (fig.). Also referred to as Nang Sida and sometimes transcribed Seeda or Sidah. 回

Siddha (सिद्ध)

Sanskrit. ‘One who is accomplished’. Term in Jainism for a liberated soul, which has destroyed all of its karma. It refers to perfected masters, who have transcended their ego, usually through meditation. 回

Siddhartha (सिद्धार्थ)

Sanskrit. ‘Goal accomplished’, ‘every wish fulfilled’ and ‘he who succeeds and prospers’. The name of the prince who later became the historical Buddha. In Pali Siddhatta. 回

Siddhatta

Pali for Siddhartha. 回

sidphratathahkot (ศิษย์พระตถาคต)

Sanskrit-Thai. A disciple or follower of a great man, namely the Buddha. 回

sih (ซี่)

Thai. The classifier used for teeth, ribs, bars, pales, prongs, tines and spokes, e.g. fan song sih (ฟันสองซี่), i.e. ‘two teeth’. 回

sih (สีห์)

Pali-Thai term for ‘lion’. 回

Sih

See Sri. 回

siha (သီဟ)

Pali-Burmese term for ‘lion’. 回

Siha Khak Khah (สีหะคักคา)

Another name for Singh Khak Khah. Also transcribed Seeha Khak Khah. 回

Sihara Mangkon (สีหรามังกร)

Another name for Kraison Mangkon. Also transcribed Seehara Mangkon. 回

sihdoh (สีดอ)

Thai term for a male elephant that grows short tusks. See also Asian Elephant, phlaay and phang. 回

Sih Hoo Hah Tah (สี่หูห้าตา)

Thai. ‘Four Ears, Five Eyes’. Name of a legend from Chiang Rai, about a bear-like creature with a blackish fur, four ears and five eyes, and which was earlier referred to as Maeng Sih Hoo Hah Tah, literally ‘Four-eared, Five-eyed Invertebrate’. According to the legend, the creature was thought to be the incarnation of the father of a boy called Ai Thuk Khata (อ้ายทุกคตะ), who was a buffalo- and cowherd, and had caught the creature in his snare trap that he had put up near a cave in the forest, with as bait the head of his deceased father, after it had fallen off the decomposed body, and as he was instructed to do by his father when the latter was still alive. The boy took the creature home in secret and tried to look after it the best he could, though Sih Hoo Hah Tah refused to eat and busy with his duty of herding the cows and buffaloes, the boy could not give the creature his full attention. Then, one day in winter, the boy brought some firewood home in order to make charcoal for his stove. When Ai Thuk Khata showed a piece of hot burning charcoal  to the creature, Sih Hoo Hah Tah grabbed it from him and to the boy's astonishment hungrily ate it whilst it was still red-hot. The boy then started feeding all the charcoal to the creature. When the next day, Sih Hoo Hah Tah defecated, even more surprisingly, the creature produced gold in great quantities. Hence, the boy started feeding the creature more red-hot charcoal, upon which the creature defecated more gold, which the boy buried in the garden around his home. Then came the news that Simah (สีมา) the royal daughter of Phaya Phanthumatiraat (fig.) was looking to get married. However, the sole condition for her to marry was that her hand would go to the person who could produce a drain between his house and the palace that could capture rain of gold. Though seemingly impossible for most, Ai Thuk Khata hired a worker to built him a channel between his house and the palace, and filled it with gold from the creature, which started to flow towards the palace. On investigating its origin, the king arrived at the house of Ai Thuk Khata, who consequently was allowed to marry with the princess. After the marriage, the king asked about the source of the gold and Ai Thuk Khata told him his story. They then dug up the gold in the garden and made it part of the national treasury, but when also the creature was invited to the palace, it out of fear fled several times and was subsequently put in a cage, from which it once again escaped when the king opened it in order to palpate the creature. The king followed Sih Hoo Hah Tah as it fled into the cave nearby where it was first caught in the snare trap, but in doing so the cave closed its entrance behind him and the king got trapped, his position unknown to anyone outside. The king then found a small hole through which he could see his mistresses and expecting to die inside, he asked them to open their phah thung (fig.), so he could enjoy their naked beauty once more before he would certainly die. When they obeyed, laughter was heard coming from the cave, but the sound of it made the cave unbolt again and the king was able to escape. After this, the creature was never spoken of again and when the king died, Ai Thuk Khata as his son-in-law became his successor. The king's ashes were enshrined in Wat Phrathat Doi Khao Kwai Kaew in Chiang Rai, a temple said to have been specially built for this event. The story of Sih Hoo Hah Tah is thus related to Buddhism and according to a senior monk and abbot of the regional temple, its four ears are said to symbolize the Four Phrommawihaan, i.e. the ‘Four Sublime States of Mind’, whereas its five eyes represent the Seen Hah or Sihnha, i.e. the ‘Five Conducts’ or five commandments of the Buddha, which form the religious precepts for Buddhist laymen. Sih Hoo Hah Tah also appears as a popular amulet believed to bring its owner wealth. It is often portrayed as a wahnon-like creature (fig.), similar to the monkey-warriors of the Ramakien (fig.), while its fur may have any colour. At the Subinnimit Foundation in Nonthaburi, there is a giant statue of Sih Hoo Hah Tah (fig.). Also transliterated Sihuhata. WATCH VIDEO (1) and (2). 回

sihk (ซีก)

Thai. ‘Section’ or ‘portion’. An old Thai monetary unit with a value of eight siyaw or two feuang. There are four sihk in one saleung. It is still found on old coins and stamps. Also transcribed seek or siek. 回

sihnha (ศีลห้า)

Thai. The five commandments of the Buddha, the Buddhist religious precepts for laymen. Monks and members of the Sangha are supposed to submit to the 227 rules of conduct concerning monastic discipline written down in the Vinaya Pitaka or Vinay Pidok. However, young novices (naen) need to uphold only 10 precepts. In both Sanskrit and Pali the Five Precepts for Buddhist laymen are called Panjasila or Pancha Sila (पञ्चशील), i.e. ‘Five Conducts’ or ‘Five Virtues’. See also jam sihn and Buddhist precepts. 回

sih prajam wan (สีประจำวัน)

Thai. ‘Colour per day’. System in Thailand in which each day of the week corresponds with a certain colour, that is, red for Sunday, yellow for Monday, pink for Tuesday, green for Wednesday, orange for Thursday, light blue or turquoise for Friday, and purple for Saturday, respectively. This colour system is also used to determine the field of the flag with the escutcheon of members of the royal family (see Vexillology & Heraldry). Compare with thep prajam wan, Phra prajam wan, sat prajam wan and dao prajam wan. See also rung and wan tua. There are sometimes small deviations in the use of these colours, especially with regards to the exact hue or shades, i.e. pale or dark. For example, whereas Wednesday is officially associated with green, sometimes mild tones of blue, gray and brown are suggested alternatives , akin to their use for Wednesday in Hinduism, and black, which is the colour of Saturday in Hinduism, may occasionally be used instead of purple. 回

Sikh (सिख, ਸਿੱਖ)

Hindi-Punjabi. Indian religion founded by the guru Nanak Dev (1469-1539) in the late 15th century which emphasizes submission to God and service to people. Sikh means ‘disciple’ or ‘seeker of the truth’ and followers believe in one God, share the Hindu beliefs in karma and reincarnation, but reject the rituals. Sikhs believe that greediness, desire, pride, anger and any attachment to passing values of earthly existence are the source of all evil. This self-centeredness is called haumai and separates humans from God. It is the cause of ones karma that leads to the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth, a sequence that can only be broken by Enlightenment and spiritual unity with the one God. Its teachings emphasizes equality of all people regardless of caste or gender. To demonstrate their acceptance of this equality all men are instructed to change their last name into Singh (lion), whilst all women adapt the name Kaur (princess). The Sikh invite people of all castes to come and meditate together, irrespective of their social background. They also started a tradition of free distribution of food to poor and rich alike, to create a sense of equality known as pangat. In Sikh history there have been ten great gurus. Its founder Nanak Dev appointed his successor who was followed by nine others. The last one however, the guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708), pronounced the end of this line of succession and ordained the Sikh holy scripture, the Adi-Granth to be the ultimate spiritual authority, rather than any person or new successor. The holiest of Sikh shrines is the Golden Temple (fig.) in Amritsar, which foundations were laid during the period of the fifth guru, Arjan Dev (1581-1606). The Sikh escutcheon consists of a double-edged sword known as khanda, in a circle called chakkar (a word related to chakra) and flanked by two scimitars. This coat of arms is also referred to as khanda, after the sword, and is also displayed in black on a saffron field (fig.) on the Sikh flag, known as Nishan Sahib, meaning ‘Symbol of the Guru's Honour’. It is customarily flown on a flagpole (fig.), which is wrapped in fabric (fig.). Male Sikh believers wear a turban (fig.), a bangle, a dagger, and short-like underpants. Officially, they are not allowed to cut their hair and adults do not shave nor trim their beards, but instead keep it up by a net. Sikh devotees who participated in the ceremony of initiation, i.e. a kind of baptism known as Amrit Sanchar, commit to five articles of faith that collectively form the external identity of the Sikh way of life, and by keeping those five articles is considered khalsa, i.e. ‘pure’. The five articles, also known by the five Ks, consist of: wearing 1. kesh, i.e. uncut hair; 2. the kanga, i.e. a small wooden comb used to first untangle and then firmly keep the hair tied into a topknot; 3. an iron bracelet, called a kara; 4. kacchera, i.e. boxer short-like undergarment made from 100% cotton; and 5. an iron dagger known as kirpan. There are an estimated 22 million Sikh believers worldwide and Thailand has Sikh temples known as gurudwaras in most large cities, as many of the numerous Indian immigrants are Sikh believers. Also Sikhism. 回

sikhara (शिखर)

Sanskrit. ‘Mountain peak’, ‘pinnacle’ or ‘summit’. Architectural term used to refer to the rising tower of North Indian Hindu temples, usually erected over the sanctuary where the presiding deity is enshrined is the most prominent and visible part of a Hindu temple of North Indian style. Its South Indian equivalent is the vimana. Also transcribed shikhara. 回

sila daeng (ศิลาแดง)

Thai. ‘Red stone’. A Thai name sometimes used for laterite, though officially it is called sila laeng. See also din daeng. 回

sila jahreuk (ศิลาจารึก)

Thai. A stone with a carved inscription. See also stele. 回

sila laeng (ศิลาแลง)

A Thai name for laterite. 回

silat

Collective term used for the indigenous martial arts from Southeast Asia, as opposed to those from the northern parts of the Far East, such as China. 回

Si Ling-chi (西陵氏)

See Xi Ling Shi. 回

silk

Soft fabric of high quality made from the spinnings of Mulberry Silkworms, i.e. the larvae (fig.) of the Domesticated Silkmoth (Bombyx mori - fig.), used in sericulture. Silk fibers have a triangular prism-like structure which allows cloth made from it to refract incoming light at different angles, giving it a shimmering appearance. Silk was first developed in ancient China, possibly around 2700 BC and began to reach the West in the 4th century BC by merchants who would exchange it for other precious goods. Imperial China anxiously tried to keep a monopoly on silk production by imposing an imperial ban and condemning to death anyone attempting to export silkworms or their eggs, but with the advent of the Silk Road were eventually unable to prevent the spread of its techniques. Western cultivation began in 552 AD, when two Byzantium monks sent by the emperor Justinian smuggled silkworms and mulberry leaves out of China, hidden in bamboo rods. Thai silk gained worldwide recognition when Jim Thompson, an American designer and textile trader, whose reputation earned him the epithet King of Silk, introduced hand-woven Thai silk, called Mai Thai, to the world. According to an ancient legend silk was discovered when a silkworm's cocoon fell into the tea cup of Leizu, a young Chinese empress, wife of the Yellow Emperor, Huang. Trying to extract it from her drink she began to unroll the thread from the cocoon, resulting in the discovery of the silk thread and the start of sericulture. She was a daughter of the Xi Ling Shi, the ‘Western mountain clan’ and is said to also have invented the silk reel and silk loom (fig.). She later became known as Can Shen, the Chinese ‘goddess of the silkworm’. Etymologically, the English word silk derives from the Chinese word si (丝 or 纟), whereas the Thai word mai seems to be related to Chinese word mi (糸), which stands for ‘fine silk’. If woven in the traditional Thai manner by hand, it is in Thai called Mai Thai. In Thailand, the administrative building of the Krasuang Kalaahome, i.e. Ministry of Defence in Bangkok, , was at somme point in time used as a royal silk weaving factory, and Queen Sirikit Kitthiyagon has been a lifelong supporter and fervent propegator of Thai silk production and silk farming, and in 2003 established the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles (fig.), which is under her auspices. See also pah sompak. 回

Silk Cotton Tree

Epithet for the Cochlospermum religiosum, an ornamental deciduous tree, that grows up to 15 meters tall and blooms from bare branches. In India and Burma it is used as a source of industrial gum, but originally it had sacred uses. In Buddhist mythology Silk Cotton Trees are believed to be the dwelling place of the garudas. The flower of the Yellow Cotton Tree, also commonly known as Buttercup Tree (Cochlospermum regium), is the provincial flower of Uthai Thani. In Thai, the latter is named ton supani kah (ต้นสุพรรณิการ์), whereas the Red Cotton Tree (Bombax ceiba) is known as ton ngiw (fig.) or ton chim phalih (ต้นฉิมพลี). 回

silk farming

The production of silk is a process that starts with a silk moth laying its eggs. READ ON. 回

Silk Road

Name given to an extensive, ancient network of interconnecting land and maritime trade routes, that existed for almost three millennia and ran for about 6,500 kilometers, from the Far East, over and along South and Western Asia, through to the Mediterranean region. It gradually developed from around the 2nd Century BC and was named after silk, then the most lucrative and sought after commodity, which was exported from China under an exclusive monopoly, in addition to other luxury goods, such as spices, tea, and porcelain. Besides this, the Roman Empire exported their luxury household goods, such as gold, silver, jewelry, glassware, wine, and carpets in eastern direction, while India, which lay at the Silk Road's junction, traded –often first hand– with all parties involved of both sides, self exporting ivory, precious stones, pepper, and textiles, in both directions. The starting point of the overland northern trade route was the then Chinese capital city of Chang'an, i.e. present-day Xi'an (fig.). See also Zhang Qian. 回

silkworm

See mai. 回

silom (สีลม)

Thai. Literally ‘to rub the wind’, a term used for a ‘windmill’. The word is a compound of si (see) which means ‘to rub’ or ‘to mill’, and lom which translates as ‘wind’. Rather than for milling Thai windmills are more commonly used for pumping water into fields (fig.), especially salt fields called nah kleua (fig.). In Bangkok's Bang Rak (บางรัก) district, an area with several foreign embassies, as well as the head offices of many large corporations, an important street, located between Sathorn and Surawong Road, is called Silom Road (map). As a reference to its name a metal statue of a full-scale windmill is put up in the street. See also bai kang han and MAP. 回

Silpa Bhirasri (ศิลป์ พีระศรี)

Professor of Italian origin, born in Santa Giovani, Florence on 15 September 1892, with the western name of Corrado Feroci (fig.). After his education at the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence he was appointed its professor in 1914. In 1923 he came to Thailand on an invitation from the Thai government and was in 1924 appointed sculptor of the Royal Institute for Fine Arts. In 1933, he founded the School of Fine Arts and became its administrator and teacher in art, art history and several art disciplines. Following a visit by Prime Minister Field Marshal Phibun Songkram (fig.), the school's status was in 1943 raised to that of a university. Corrado Feroci was entrusted with the task to establish the Silpakorn University (fig.) and was appointed professor and dean of the Faculty of Painting and Sculpture (fig.). In 1944, during WW II, professor Feroci changed his name to Silpa Bhirasri and became a Thai citizen. He died of cancer in Bangkok in 1962. His contribution and devotion to Thai art give him a unique status. In 1992, he was commemorated with a Thai postage stamp (fig.), issued to celebrate his 100th birthday. Also Silpa Phirasih. See also POSTAGE STAMP and TRAVEL PICTURES. 回

silpakahntat phummai pen roop tahngtahng (ศิลปะการตัดพุ่มไม้เป็นรูปต่างๆ)

Thai description for topiary. 回

Silpakorn University

University in Bangkok founded in 1943 previously the School of Fine Arts founded by the Italian sculptor Corrado Feroci (fig.) who was also the dean of the Faculty of Painting and Sculpture (fig.). The university also has an Art and Cultural Centre (fig.) in Nakhon Pathom, which is known as the Sanam Chan Palace (fig.) Campus (fig.). Also spelled Silpakon University and in Thai known as Mahawithayahlay Silpakon. 回

Silpa Luat Dat (ศิลปะลวดดัด)

Thai. ‘Wire Bending Art’. Name of an art form, in English usually referred to as Wire Art, in which sculptures or three-dimensional forms are created using wire as the primary material. It involves bending, twisting, and shaping metal wire to create intricate and detailed artworks, manipulating the wire to form various shapes, patterns, and structures, ranging from simple figures to complex and abstract designs, using various types of wire, such as steel, copper, or aluminum, depending on the desired outcome and purpose of the artwork, whilst using the opportunity to play with negative space, light, and shadow, resulting in visually captivating and dynamic compositions. The artworks (fig.) can be freestanding, wall-mounted, or even incorporated into larger installations. In topiary (fig.), i.e. the art of sculpting and training live plants, typically bushes and trees, into intricate and ornamental shapes (fig.), wire art may be incorporated as internal support structure or as a guide for plant growth, adding an additional layer of creativity and allowing for more intricate and detailed designs. See also TRAVEL PICTURE. 回

Silpa Phirasih (ศิลป์ พีระศรี)

Another transcription for Silpa Bhirasri. 回

sittuyin (စစ်တုရင်)

Burmese. ‘War representation of the four characteristics of an army’, i.e. a Burmese variety of chess. The four army characteristics in the name refer to chariots, war elephants, the cavalry, and the infantry. Sittuyin derives directly from the ancient Indian strategy game chaturanga, i.e. the common ancestor of chess, which is said to have arrived in Burma in the 8th Century AD. The game board consists of 64 squares, i.e. 8 rows and 8 columns, though without alternating colours and with two diagonal lines across the board. The pieces on the game board are similar to those of western chess, though the King is sided by a general, rather than a Queen, and a set of elephants act for the bishops found in western chess, and the setup of the pieces on the game board in starting position is also different, as pawns, referred to as feudal lords, are on the board in the initial position. The other pieces are put on the squares behind the pawns, in positions chosen by the players themselves, and deployed prior to the first actual move. In English, sittuyin is known as Burmese Chess. See also mahk ruk. 回

silver

See ngun. 回

silver and gold trees

Annual tribute that vassal states in the past were required to pay to the ruling kings, as an indication of their loyalty. See also ton mai ngeun ton mai thong. 回

Silver Bluggoe

Common name for a banana cultivar with the botanical name Musa acuminata x balbisiana and known in Thai as gluay hak muk (fig.). 回

Silver Date Palm

See Inthaphlam Bai Ngun. 回

Silver-eared Mesia

Common name for a colourful, 16.5 to 18 centimeter tall bird in the Timaliidae family, with the scientific name Leiothrix argentauris, and found in many parts of South and Southeast Asia, from the Eastern Himalayas to Western China, ranging South, down to Malaysia and Sumatra, through Indochina. They also reside in northern parts of the Indian subcontinent, Southwest China and Southeast Tibet. There are some subspecies, with males of the form Leiothrix argentauris galbana having a black head, with a yellow patch on the forehead, and silvery ear-coverts. The mantle and back are greyish-olive, the lower belly whitish, and the rump and vent are reddish-orange. The bill is yellow, the throat and breast are deep yellow, and there is a reddish patch in the middle of the wings, which are otherwise greyish near the shoulders and yellow near the tips. The female is similar, but the yellow on the breast is paler and doesn't extend as far down. The reddish wing-patches are also lighter, whilst the neck is somewhat darker. Females also have light yellow under-tail coverts. Other subspecies are similar, with only minor differences, e.g. Leiothrix argentauris ricketti has a darker, almost orange throat, and Leiothrix argentauris cunhaci has a larger patch on the forehead. Silver-eared Mesias feed on insects and some plant material, whereas vegetables and certain fruits are eaten when available, such as berries, which they search for under bushes. In captivity, they become uneasy when they are alone, but they are easily made tame in an aviary environment. This bird species is related to the Red-billed Leiothrix (fig.). In Thai, it is named nok karong thong kaem khao. 回

Silvered Leaf Monkey

Common name for a species of Leaf Monkey native to Southeast Asia, and with the scientific names Presbytis cristata and Trachypithecus cristatus. In Thailand it is found on the southern peninsula. It is identified by its dark-skinned face and overall dark grey fur, which has pale tips, giving it a silvery appearance. Like with some other Langurs, infants are of a bright orange colour. They usually live in groups of up to 10 individuals, especially in swampy areas, and riverine or mangrove forests. Its diet consists mainly of young leaf shoots and forest fruits. Also known as Silvery Lutung and Silvery Langur, and in Thai called kaang thao or kaang ngok, meaning ‘Grey Langur’. 回

Silverfish

See malaeng sahm ngahm. 回

Silver Pheasant

Name for a pheasant with the scientific name Lophura nycthemera and which occurs in mainland Southeast Asia. READ ON. 回

Silver Star

Common name for a small epiphyte, with the botanical designation Tillandsia stricta. READ ON. 回

Silvery Gibbon

Common name of a critically endangered species of gibbon, with the scientific designation Hylobates moloch. READ ON. 回

sim (สิม)

Isaan-Laotian. A term in the Thai-Lao cultural language for the most important sanctuary and ordination hall of a Buddhist temple in Laos and the Isaan, similar to the bot or ubosot, and often referred to as Sim Isaan (สิมอีสาน), i.e. ‘Isaan Sim’ or ‘Northeastern Sim’. This significant architectural structure in Northeast Thailand's temples and monasteries is traditionally built from wood, bamboo, or rattan. Sim are small, sacred spaces intended for monks' activities, like ordinations and kathin ceremonies, and not for laypeople. Sims are categorized based on their location: Sim Bok (สิมบก), ‘Land Sim’, are permanent structures within temple grounds, while Sim Nam (สิมน้ำ), i.e. ‘Water Sim’, are temporary and surrounded by water, following Sri Lankan Buddhist beliefs in water's purity. Due to the perishable materials used, many older Sim have decayed, though examples still exist in various northeastern provinces. Recently, there has been a movement to preserve the Isaan Sim's unique style, often by constructing larger structures to accommodate more people. The construction of the concrete sim is more elaborate than the wooden sim. The walls or bases are decorated with various beautiful patterns. There are doors and windows, no more than two on each side. An example is the Isaan Sim at Wat Pah Saeng Arun (วัดป่าแสงอรุณ) in Khon Kaen, recognized for its blend of Thai and Lao architectural elements, brick and mortar construction, naga-shaped gable, and notable mural paintings. Sim often have unique mural paintings known as hoop taem. 回

simha (सिंह)

Sanskrit for singha. 回

Simhahanu (सिंहहनु)

Sanskrit. ‘Lion's jaw’. Grandfather of Siddhartha who possessed the bow that the prince used in a contest to proof his skills in order to allow him to marry Yasodhara, a weapon that others could hardly lift. He had five sons, namely Suddhodana, Dhautodana, Shakradana, Sulkodana and Amritodan. 回

simhasana (सिंहासन)

Sanskrit for ‘lion throne’, one of the seated positions or asana in iconography. 回

sindura (सिन्दूर)

Hindi. An orange-red powder, used by married women in India to apply a vermillion stripe along the parting of their hair (fig.), as well as a bindi (fig.), in order to indicate their martial status (fig.). Also called sindoor, which may also be transliterated sinduhr. 回

Sing (สิงฆ์)

Thai-Pali name of a mythological creature from Himaphan forest, very similar to a singha or singh, but with clawed feet and a purplish complexion. Sometimes transcribed Sinkh. 回

Singapore

Name of a sovereign island nation and city-state in Southeast Asia, which covers an area of just 733.1 km² and has a population of around 5.5 million, and that is officially known as the Republic of Singapore. The country's name derives from the Sanskrit word Singapura (सिंहपु) and means ‘Lion City’. Its maritime location and animal name are merged and symbolized in the Merlion, the official mascot and a popular landmark of Singapore at Marina Bay, that consists of a mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish (fig.). The Merlion features on the reverse side of one Singapore Dollar (fig.) coins of the third series issued in 2013. Embossed next to it is the Singapore Orchid, the national flower of Singapore (fig.), which already featured on the one cent coins of the previous second series issued between 1985 and 2013.  Singapore was founded in 1299, on an island then known as Temasek, by Prince Sang Nila Utama (सङ् नील उत्तम) of the Srivijaya Empire, who as king took the crown title Sri Tri Buana (श्री त्रि भुवन). Its location at the southern end of the Malay peninsula made Singapore of major geopolitical and strategic importance, especially with the Strait of Malacca and Singapore Strait being the main ship passageway for the India-China trade and second busiest sea route of the world for maritime traffic (fig.), linking the South China Sea (fig.) with the Indian Ocean, via the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal. Hence, the area was between the 16th and 19th centuries gradually taken over by the European colonial powers, with Singapore becoming a British colony in 1824, some five years after Sir Stamford Raffles (fig.) in 1918 established a new port and a British trading post, thus becoming the founder of modern Singapore. When the region in 1963 gained independence from Great Britain, it initially consisted of a federation of the former British colonies of Malaya and Singapore, including Sabah and Sarawak on the northern coast of Borneo, yet after Singapore's secession from the federation in 1965, the federation's name was adapted by inserting the first to letters of Singapore into the name Malaya to form Malaysia, in order to indicate the historical connection and former political union between the two nations. The national flag of Singapore (fig.) was adopted in 1959, the year Singapore became self-governing within the British Empire, and remained the national flag upon the country's independence from Malaysia on 9 August 1965. It consists of a horizontal bicolour of red above white, with in the upper-left quadrant a white crescent moon, which symbolizes a young nation on the ascendant, facing a pentagon of five small white five-pointed stars, that represent democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality. Vessels at sea do not use the national flag, but instead Singapore-registered civilian ships fly the Red Ensign of Singapore, which was introduced in 1966 and consists of a red flag with in white a centered ring with in it a vertical crescent underneath five stars, whereas military vessels fly the Singapore Naval Force Ensign introduced in 1967 and which consists of a white flag with a red top left hand quarter with in white a crescent sided by five stars in a circle and in the lower right hand quarter an eight pointed red star with narrow white lines inserted within the star; all non-military vessels owned by the government, such as the Police Coast Guard, fly the State Marine Ensign, which was introduced in 1960 and is similar to the Singapore Naval Force Ensign, but with the main field in dark blue. See also TRAVEL PICTURES (1), (2) and (3), and WATCH VIDEO. 回

Singapore Cherry

See takhob. 回

Singapore Dollar

Name of the official currency of the Republic of Singapore. It is abbreviated with the currency code SGD and is often denoted by the symbol $ or S$. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is responsible for issuing and regulating the Singapore Dollar. The Singapore Dollar is divided into 100 cents and coins are issued in denominations of 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as $1. Banknotes are available in denominations of $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. Singapore's currency features a combination of historical and modern elements, with images of prominent figures, landmarks, and symbols of the nation, such as Merlion (fig.) and the Singapore Orchid (fig.). Singapore is known for its stable and well-managed economy, contributing to the strength and reliability of its currency. 回

Singapore Flyer

Name of a 165 metres tall observation wheel in the Marina Bay (fig.) area of Singapore and one of the largest ferris wheels in the world. It is situated in close proximity to several other prominent landmarks, such as Marina Bay Sands (fig.) and the Gardens by the Bay (fig.). The Singapore Flyer has a unique and modern design, featuring 28 air-conditioned capsules that can each accommodate up to 28 passengers. The capsules are mounted externally to the wheel structure, providing unobstructed views. It takes the wheel about 30 minutes to complete one full rotation. The Singapore Flyer officially opened to the public in 2008 and offers a stunning night experience, with the city lights creating a picturesque view, whilst the ferris wheel is illuminated itself, adding to the visual appeal. 回

Singapore Orchid

The national flower of Singapore. It was chosen in 1981 as a symbol of the country's unique identity and heritage. It is a representation of the unity and harmony among Singapore's people. Its botanical name is Vanda Miss Joaquim and it is a hybrid orchid, resulting from a cross between Vanda teres and Vanda hookeriana. It is named after Agnes Joaquim, a horticulturist who played a crucial role in cultivating and promoting the hybrid. The orchid has a distinctive and vibrant appearance with a combination of pink, purple, and white hues. The orchid is celebrated for its resilience, elegant beauty, and the representation of Singapore's multiculturalism, as it brings together different elements just like the diverse population of the country. It features on one Singapore Dollar coins of the third series issued from 2013 onward (fig.), embossed next to a depiction of Merlion, the official mascot and a popular landmark of Singapore (fig.), as well as on one cent coins of the previous second series issued between 1985 and 2013. 回

Singapore Rhododendron

Common name for a flowering plant in the family Melastomataceae, with the botanical term Melastoma malabathricum. READ ON. 回

Singburi (สิงห์บุรี)

Thai. ‘Lion city’. Name of a province (map) and its capital city of the same name in Central Thailand. READ ON. 回

singh (สิงห์)

1. Thai pronunciation for the Pali term ‘singha’, i.e. a mythological lion. 回

2. Name of Thailand's oldest beer and the only one that carries the Krut Trah Tang Hahng i.e. the Garuda symbol for a Royal Warrant of Appointment given by the King of Thailand. Usually referred to as bia(r) singh and in English as singha beer. 回

2. Name of a small island off the coast of Prachuap Khirikhan Province, located on the western seashore of the Gulf of Thailand, roughly between Pha Fang Daeng, i.e. the ‘Red Cliffs’ (fig.), and Koh Thalu (fig.), a small island with an arched rock formation. Koh Singh features a rock formation in the shape of a mythological lion, hence its name. WATCH VIDEO and VIDEO (E). 回

singha (सिंह)

1. Pali and Hindi pronunciation for singh, derived from the Sanskrit word simha. and meaning ‘lion’. In Pali and Hindi called singha and in Burma cinthe. In Buddhism it is considered the guardian of Buddhist teachings usually portrayed in a mythological form. Especially in northern Thailand they are often found in pairs guarding temple entrances. In general the term is used when referring to lions in a metaphorical sense, e.g. mythological lions and when a sign of the zodiac. Mythological lions are also known as kraison, and the common word used for actual lions is singtoh. There are several types, many with features of other animals, such as Toh, which has two antlers (fig.) and Sang Praeng, with clawed feet and a feathery tail (fig.), to name just two. Most of these composite creatures dwell in Himaphan forest. It appears on a Thai postage stamp issued in 1998 (fig.). See also Snowlion. See more POSTAGE STAMPS and THEMATIC STREET LIGHT. 回

2. English pronunciation for Thailand's oldest beer, which in Thai is known as singh (fig.). 回

singhabanchon (สิงหบัญชร)

Thai term for a window behind which a Thai king in the past used to receive foreign visitors. 回

Singha Nat Racha (สิงหนาทราชา)

Thai. Name of a Shan leader (fig.) with the Thai title of Phraya (according to some sources Phaya), who was appointed as the first ruler of Mae Hong Son. In 1874 he commissioned the construction of a chedi at Wat Phrathat Doi Kong Moo (fig.) and his wife in 1875 commissioned the casting of a twelve meter long reclining Buddha image which today rests in Wat Phra Non (fig.). Today, his statue stands at an intersection in the city on the road towards both aforementioned temples. 回

Singha Park

Name of an over 8,000 rai recreational domain in Chiang Rai and the largest agricultural tourism destination in Thailand, known in Thai as Singh Park (สิงห์ปาร์ค). The domain features various gardens with attractive plants and trees, a tea plantation, a rubber plantation, a lake, walking and biking trails, an observation tower, various animals, and a large golden statue of a mythological lion, known in Thai as singh, and in English pronounced singha (fig.), akin to the Pali and Hindi pronunciation, that is situated in a hilly grass field and which refers to the name of the park. See also TRAVEL PICTURES and WATCH VIDEO. 回

Singh Khak Khah (สิงหคักคา)

Thai-Pali name of a mythological creature from Himaphan forest, that has the body of a singha, but scaled and of a dark purple colour. In addition, its lower legs and feet are reminiscent to those of an elephant. Sometimes transliterated Singha Khak Kar and also known as Siha Khak Khah. 回

Singh Phanon (สิงหพานร)

Thai-Pali name of a mythological creature from Himaphan forest. It has the lower body of a lion (singha) and the upper body of a monkey (phanon), though its feet are also like those of a monkey. In art, it is often depicted standing upright whilst holding a staff with both hands, in front of its body. See also Apsonsi and Phanon Mareuk. 回

singing bowl

Name for a kind of bowl-shaped bell or gong used as a stimulation utility for meditation, trance induction and prayer, especially in Mahayana Buddhism and feng shui. It originates from the Himalayan region but is widely used throughout the South Asia and the Far East. In Chinese Buddhism, the monks strike the singing bowl when chanting prayers (fig.), but usually it is played by rubbing a wooden mallet around the rim of the bowl, causing an overtone, which is referred to as ‘singing’, hence its name. They may also have mantras, such as Aum or the six syllable Aum mani padma hum, inscribed on them (fig.). It is traditionally made from five metals called panchaloga in Sanskrit, in general a bronze mixture of copper, tin, zinc and iron, and another metal, although nowadays also other materials are often used. Singing bowls are usually kept on hassock-like cushions (fig.). Also called Tibetan singing bowls, Himalayan singing bowls, rin gongs or suzu gongs. See also muyu. 回

Singh Singhaseni (สิงห์ สิงหเสนี)

Thai. The personal name of the Chao Phraya Bodindecha. 回

singtoh (สิงโต)

Thai for ‘lion’. This word is commonly -though not always- used when referring to a real animal. When referring to a mythological lion generally the word singha or kraison is used. See also simha, singh, singha and Toh. 回

Singtoh Jihn (สิงโตจีน)

Thai. ‘Chinese lion’. Name used in Thailand to refer to Rui Shi. 回

Sin Kyone (ဆင်ကျုံး)

Burmese. ‘Elephant Stockade’ or ‘Elephant Moat’. Name of a fortress, located at the east bank of the Irrawaddy River (fig.), to the south of —and connected to— Ava. It is named after the village where its is located and was built to protect the Mandalay capital against the British during the Third Anglo-Burmese War. As such, it is one of three 19th century fortresses built for the purpose, the others ones being Asaykhan Fortress (fig.) in Sagaing, on the opposite side of the river, and Tha Byae Tan Fortress (fig.) to the north of Ava. However, despite all this, the bastions failed to prevent the British conquest in 1885 AD. The fortress' square layout and its surrounding moat, as well as two canons and  are all that remain today. Also spelled Sinkyone. See MAP. 回

Sin Myar Shin (ဆင်များရှင်)

Burmese. Name of a Buddhist temple in Sagaing, which in full is named Yadana Zedi Sin Myar Shin Phaya Kyee, literally ‘Great Pagoda of the Bejeweled Stupa with Many Elephants’, and which was built in 792 AD by King Mohnyin of Inwa. The stupa is said to enshrine five relics that were brought back from Sri Lanka by two Buddhist monks. The platform onto which it is built is surrounded by a gallery of White Elephants (fig.), hence the name of this pagoda. The outer edge of the compound is lined with statues of monks out on alms round, while the garden also features a pahng nahg prok image (fig.). At the beginning of this row of monks is a standing Buddha image holding an alms bowl (fig.), while in his front are Sumedha (fig.), i.e. a former incarnation of Siddhartha Gautama, who is here represented as a Burmese hermit or tapathi (fig.) laying flat on his belly in worship of Dipankhara (fig.), and offering some of the lotuses given to him by Sumidha, who is here sitting besides him, after having pledged to her that they would become husband and wife in all their future existences. See TRAVEL PHOTOS (1) and (2), as well as MAP. 回

sinphrachon (สิ้นพระชนม์)

Thai. Rajasap or royal language for ‘dying’, similar to sawankot. The term occurs regularly on pedestals in Thailand together with the term phrasoot or somphop. 回

Sin Samut (สินสมุทร)

1. Thai. ‘End of the Ocean’. A son of Phra Aphaimanih and the ogress Nang Phi Seua Samut (fig.), in the story Phra Aphaimanih, who −with the help of a mermaid− moved the rock in front of the cave in which Phra Aphaimanih was held captive by the ogress, thus helping him escape to Koh Kaew Pitsadahn (เกาะแก้วพิสดาร), i.e. ‘Queer Crystal Island’, a fictional island at the tip of Sumatra. Later, Sin Samut was adopted by Nang Suwanna Malih (fig.). The HTMS Sin Samut, a submarine of the type Madchanu once used by the Royal Thai Navy (fig.), was named after this character. 回

2. Thai. ‘End of the Ocean’. Name of a submarine, usually referred to as the HTMS Sin Samut, i.e. a U-boat of the type Madchanu that was once used by the Royal Thai Navy (fig.), and which is named after a character from the story Phra Aphaimanih. 回

Sih Phih (สีพี)

Thai name for the city or kingdom of Sivi, i.e. the hometown of Prince Wetsandorn and the setting in the Totsachat or last jataka Wetsandornchadok, where it is related that the city had a White Elephant with powers to bring rain. Also spelled Si Phi or See Phee. 回

Sipsongpannah (ສິບສວງພັນນາ, สิบสองพันนา)

Laotian-Thai. ‘Twelve hundred paddies’. A region in the South Chinese province of Yunnan, in the North bordering Nan Chao, and in the 12th century AD under the rule of the independent Tai and later, in the 17th century, kingdoms of the Thai Lu. In Chinese known by the name of Xishuangbanna. Compare with Lan Na. MORE ON THIS. 回

Sirikit (สิริกิติ)

See Sirikit Kitthiyagon. 回

Sirikit Kitthiyagon (สิริกิติ์ กิติยากร)

Born the daughter of a Thai prince and his consort, on Friday 12 August 1932. Queen of Thailand by marriage to king Bhumipon Adunyadet, on 28 April 1950 (fig.). She breathes new life into Thai traditional handicrafts and encourages the continuation of this cultural heritage on a national level. For her dedication and legacy to preserve the arts and crafts of Thailand, she was given the title Preeminent Protector of Arts and Crafts (fig.) and in this role she is depicted on a set of six postage stamps issued in 2013 (fig.). She is also chair of several organizations, including the national Red Cross. She gave birth to four children, three daughters and one son, the present Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn (fig.). The name Sirikit means ‘beauty and honor’. Her personal Royal Flag (fig.), known as Thong Sirikit Kitthiyagon (fig.), consists of a golden crown over her initials, the letters S (ส) and K (ก) in blue and white, on a light blue field, the colour of her birthday (see sih prajam wan), though there is also another version of this flag, which has the logo and text in white print, and in addition to the crown and the initials, it has a ribbon with the text Song Phra Charoen (ทรงพระเจริญ), which is rajasap, meaning ‘to prosper’ or ‘to be prosperous’, but is usually translated as ‘Long Live the Queen’ (fig.). Although the Queen has often appeared on a number of Thai postage stamps (fig.), to commemorate her 80th birthday anniversary a unique set of stamps was issued with representations of the Queen during different stages of her life, from childhood to the present adult Queen, with intervals of ten years (fig.). Many projects and edifices, such as the Sirikit Medical Center in Bangkok (map - fig.), as well as a lotus flower (fig.), a rose (fig.) and an orchid (fig.), and a shrub with the botanical designation Mussaenda philippica (fig.), and a section of Chatuchak Park (fig.), have been named after her. See also POSTAGE STAMPS (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7), (8), (9) and (10). 回

Sirindhorn (สิรินธร)

Another -often used- transliteration for the name of princess Sirinthon. 回

Sirinthon (สิรินธร)  

1. Name of the second daughter and third child to King Bhumipon and Queen Sirikit. READ ON. 回

2. Name of an amphur in Ubon Ratchathani. 回

Siriraj Bimuksthan Museum

Museum on the history of the Siriraj Hospital (map - fig.), located in the former Thonburi Train Station (fig.), adjacent and since 2003 part of to the main hospital complex in Bangkok Noi. In Thai, it is known as Phiphithaphan Siriraat Phimuk Sathaan (พิพิธภัณฑศิริราชพิมุขสถาน), but this is officially transliterated as Siriraj Bimuksthan Museum, although it should be pronounced Siriraht Phimukhsthan Museum, which literally translates as the Siriraj Rear (Position) Musem, due to the fact that it was once the place of the Rear Palace, known in Thai as Krom Phra Rachawang Bowon Sathaan Phimuk, or simply Wang Lang, with its last ever occupant being Anurak Thewet (fig.). It is just one of several museums belonging to the Siriraj Hospital Museum (fig.). See MAP. 回

Siriraj Hospital

Name of the first royal hospital in the country, originally called Wang Lang Hospital, after the former palace and residence of the last Krom Phra Rachawang Bowon Sathaan Phimuk, that once stood on its location. It was renamed in memory to Prince Siriraj Kakuthaphan (fig.), who died of dysentery at the short-lived age of one year and seven months. He was the fifth son to Queen Sri Patcharintra and the 59 child of King Rama V, who had it built to provide medical treatment to the public when the era of modern medicine made its way to Thailand. When current members of the royal family need medical attention they customarily come here. The hospital was also Thailand's first medical school, built to help medical students with their studies and research projects and to educate medical students the hospital had a hall with didactic materials, which today has been made into a museum, known by the name Siriraj Hospital Museum (fig.). Siriraj Hospital was officially opened in a ceremony on 26 April 1888 and Rohng Rian Phaetayakon (โรงเรียนแพทยากร), often transliterated Bhatayakorn, Thailand's first medical school, was opened in 1889. These events marked the beginning of modern medicine in Thailand. See also POSTAGE STAMPS (1), (2), (3), and (4), and MAP. 回

Siriraj Hospital Museum

General name for a group of educational museums located within the compound of the Siriraj Hospital (map - fig.) in Bangkok Noi, which initially doubled as Thailand's first medical school. Originally, it was a didactic classroom, founded to help medical students with their studies and research projects, but later became a museum with permanent exhibits which expanded into its present form, i.e. spread out over three buildings and several halls, that are separately known as: the Siriraj Bimuksthan Museum (fig.), located in the former Thonburi Train Station (fig.); the Siriraj Medical Museum (map - fig.), which consists of the Ellis Pathological Museum, the Songkran Niyomsane Forensic Museum, the Parasitology Museum (fig.), and the Ouay Ketusingh Museum on the History of Thai Medicine, all accommodated on the second floor of the Adulyadejvikrom Building, which is named after Mahidol Adulyadej (fig.); the Sood Sangvichien Prehistoric Museum and Laboratory, housed besides the morgue in the Anatomy Building; and the Congdon Anatomical Museum (fig.), named after Dr. Edgar Congdon, who founded the museum in 1927, and which is also in the Anatomy Building, conveniently located above the Dissecting Room. Parts of the museum have some rather morbid objects on display, such as the cross-section of human bodies, heads and body parts, and babies affected by genetic anomalies and disorders, frozen in time inside jars filled with formaldehyde. There are also exhibits of the  bodies of accident victims, and even the dried body of an infamous serial killer, who in the fifties was known to eat the livers of children. In Thai, the mueum is called Phiphithaphan Satahn Rohng Phayahbahn Siriraht (พิพิธภัณฑสถานโรงพยาบาลศิริราช). In English, the museum is also nicknamed the Museum of Death, and its objectives are in many ways similar to those of the Human Body Museum (fig.) at the Faculty of Medicine of the Chulalongkorn University. See MAP. 回

Siriraj Kakuthaphan (ศิริราชกกุธภัณฑ์)

Thai. Name of the 59 child of King Rama V (fig.) and the fifth son (fig.) to Queen Sri Phatcharinthra. He was born on 27 November 1885 and died of dysentery at the short-lived age of one year, six months and 4 days, on 31 May 1887. Siriraj Hospital (fig.) and the Siriraj School of Nursing and Midwifery are named after him. Sometimes transcribed Sirirat Kakudhabhandu or Siriraj Kakuttapan. See also kakuthaphan. 回

Siriraj Medical Museum

Museum located on the second floor of the Adulyadejvikrom Building of the Siriraj Hospital (fig.) in Bangkok Noi, and part of the larger Siriraj Hospital Museum (map - fig.). This one museum consists itself again of four halls or museums, which are separately known as the Pathological Museum, which displays a genuine healthy human heart and hearts with diseases, several types of cancer, fetal development and congenital anomalies; the Forensic Museum, which displays objects such as human skeletons, skulls and organs collected from homicides and suicides, as well as from accidental and natural death cases, including even the preserved corpse of a notorious serial killer; the Parasitology Museum, which features all kinds of parasites, their origin and how they affect the human organs (fig.); and the Museum on the History of Thai Medicine, which includes also Thai traditional medicine. In Thai, the Siriraj Medical Museum is known as Phiphithaphan Kahn Phaet Siriraht (พิพิธภัณฑ์การแพทย์ศิริราช). See MAP. 回

Sirimahannop (สิริมหรรณพ)

Name of Thailand's largest sailing ship, a three-masted vessel with a length of 58.5 meters and 11 meters wide. READ ON. 回

Siriyalai Palace

Name of a contemporary royal palace in Ayutthaya. READ ON. 回

Si Shi (四氏)

Chinese. ‘Four Shi’ or ‘Four Sirs’. Name of a group of semi-mythological rulers and culture heroes from the period preceding the Xia Dynasty in ancient China, and that are said to have taken part in the creation of the world. They are four in number and known as You Chao-shi, Fu Xi-shi, Sui Ren-shi, and Shen Nong-shi, each taking the annex shi to their names, thus referring to their membership of this clan, although Shi can also be used as a masculine honorific like ‘Mister’ or ‘Sir’. 回

Sisowath (ស៊ីសុវតិ្ថ)

Khmer. King of Cambodia, who ruled from 1904 to 1927. He was born on 7 September 1840 as the son of King Ang Duong, and a half-brother of Prince Si Votha and Prince Norodom. At his birth, Cambodia was under joint Siamese and Vietnamese rule, and Sisowath was educated in the Siamese capital Bangkok. 回

Sita (सीता)

The wife of Rama and heroin in the epic Ramayana. She is the embodiment of the female virtues. In the Thai version of the Ramayana, the Ramakien, she is called Sida (fig.). 回

Sitagu Sayadaw (သီတဂူဆရာတော်)

Burmese. Name of a Burmese meditation teacher and Theravada Buddhist scholar. READ ON. 回

sitar (सितार)

Hindi. A long-necked bowl lute, i.e. a plucked stringed instrument used in India (fig.), though according to some sources probably originating from Persia. It consists of a long hollow neck with 20 to 25 strings, of which only 6 or 7 are playable strings, the others being  auxiliary strings, that give the instrument its sympathetic resonant sound, which is amplified by a gourd resonating chamber. Some sitars have a secondary gourd resonator near the top of the hollow neck. Originally, sitars were made of quality materials, such as teakwood for the neck, and deer horn, ebony or camel bone for the bridges. It is similar to the veena, which in Hindu mythology is the preferred instrument of Sarasvati, i.e. Surasvati (fig.), the Hindu goddess of art and learning (fig.), as well as of Matangi, the Tantric form of Sarasvati, in her form as Raja-Matangi (fig.). 回

sith (สิทธิ์)

Thai for ‘right’ or ‘claim’, which derives from sitthi. 回

Si Tian Wang (四天王)

Chinese. ‘Four Heavenly Kings’. Term for four guardian gods in Mahayana Buddhism, one for each of the cardinal directions of the world, similar to lokapala. They are known by the names Duo Wen Tian (fig.), Zeng Zhang Tian (fig.), Chi Guo Tian (fig.), and Guang Mu Tian (fig.). They correspondent with the Indian lokapala of the North, South, East, and West, i.e. Kubera or Vaisravana, Yama or Virudhaka (विरूढक), Indra or Dhritarashtra (धृतराष्ट्र), and Varuna or Virupaksa (fig.), respectively. They are often placed at the entrance of Chinese temples, usually in pairs, two on each side. They are also known as the Diamond Kings of Heaven, and might have different attributes. Compare with Chien Li Yen and Shun Feng Er. In Vietnamese, they are known as Tu Dai Thien Vuong (Tứ Đại Thiên Vương). In Thai, they are together referred to as Chatumaharachikah (จาตุมหาราชิกา) and separately they are known as Thao Thatarattha, Thao Wirunhok, Thao Wirupak, and Thao Kuwen. 回

Sitthaat (สิทธารถ)

Thai name for Siddhartha. Also pronounced Sittharot and Sittharta. 回

Sittharot (สิทธารถ)

Thai name for Siddhartha. Also pronounced Sitthaat and Sittharta. 回

sitthi (สิทธิ)

Thai for ‘right’ or ‘claim’, from which the term sith derives. 回

Sitthiporn Kritdakorn (สิทธิพรกฤดากร)

Thai. Name of a prince of the Rattanakosin era, with the title of momchao. READ ON. 回

sitting Buddha

One of the four positions of Buddha images in iconography. See also iryapatha. 回

Siva (ศิวะ)

Thai name for Shiva. Also transcribed Siwa. 回

Sivi

Name of a kingdom as well as the name of a king in the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata, in addition to the hometown of Prince Wetsandorn and the setting in the Totsachat or last jataka Wetsandornchadok, where it is related that the city had a White Elephant with powers to bring rain, and which in Thai literature is referred to as Meuang or Nakhon Sih Phih. 回

Siwa (ศิวะ)

Thai name for Shiva. Also transcribed Siva. 回

Siwaleung (ศิวลึงค์)

Thai for linga. 回

Siwaling (ศิวลิงค์)

Thai for linga. 回

Six Paramitas

Term in Mahayana Buddhism for the perfection of six virtues as a way to purify karma, i.e. generosity, proper, conduct, endurance, diligence, concentration and wisdom. The Sanskrit word paramita (पारमिता, in Thai: ปารมิตา) means ‘traversed’ or ‘perfection’, as in Prajnaparamita. In Theravada Buddhism there are ten vitues, known by the Pali term Dasa Paramiyo. 回

Sixty Heavenly Generals

See Tai Sui. 回

siyaw (เสี้ยว)

Thai. ‘Quarter’. An obsolete Thai monetary unit with a value of four sihk, or one fourth of a solot. It is still found on old coins and stamps. Also transcribed seek or siek. 回

Skanda (स्कन्द)

Sanskrit. The god of war and one of the sons of Shiva and his consort. His mount is the mayura or peacock. He is is associated with Phra Angkahn (fig.) and Wei Tuo (fig.), and also known as Kumara (fig.), Karttikeya (fig.), Guha, Subramanya and Subramaniam. 回

skink

General name for a lizard-like reptile in the family Scincidae, of which its English name is derived. See also jing lehn. 回

Skipper

Name for a group of generally small butterflies, that belong to the family Hesperiidae and the subfamily Hesperiinae. READ ON. 回

Slaty-headed Parakeet

Common name for a species of parakeet which is also known as the Himalayanan Parakeet and with the scientific name Psittacula himalayana. It ranges throughout many parts of southern Asia. Adults of both sexes have bluish-green feathers, a dark grey head, with a light blue tint in the neck. Males have a dark maroon patch on the wings and long central tail feathers which are shorter in female birds. The tail is green at base, blue in the middle and bright yellow at the tip. The parakeet features a bright red-orange upper mandible with a paler yellowish lower mandible. It is sometimes kept as a family pet in the hill tribe villages in northern Thailand. See also TRAVEL PICTURES. 回

Slender Green Broadwing

Common name for a species of damselfly in the family Calopterygidae. These damselflies have a metallic green-bronze body with a long slender abdomen, and large, transparent green-bronze to brownish wings, which are broad all the way to the body. They are usually found near gently moving water. It is also commonly known as Clear-winged Forest Glory and its Latin scientific name is Vestalis gracilis. In Thai, the species is referred to as malaeng poh khem nahm tok pihk riyaw (แมลงปอเข็มน้ำตกปีกเรียว), suggesting that it dwells in the vicinity of waterfalls. See also POSTAGE STAMP. 回

Slender Sharksucker

Common name for a kind of remora suckerfish, i.e. a species of medium-sized cleaning fish, with the scientific designation Echeneis fasciata. READ ON. 回

Slender Squirrel

Name of a small species of tree squirrel that occurs in primary and tall secondary forests, from Thailand to Malaysia, including Borneo and as far as Singapore and Sumatra. This rodent belongs to the family of Sciuridae and has the scientific name Sundasciurus tenuis. Its upperparts are brown whilst its underside is light grey to pale (fig.). It also has a pale area around each eye. The ears are small and usually orange-brown in colour. Its tail is long and slender, and it feeds on soft tree bark (fig.), fruits and small insects. In Thai it is called kra-rohk hang mah lek (กระรอกหางม้าเล็ก), i.e. ‘small horsetail squirrel’. 回

Slow Loris

Generic name for a rather cute-looking species of nocturnal mammal belonging to the genus Nycticebus, of which five recognized subspecies exist, i.e. the Sunda Slow Loris (Nycticebus coucang), Bengal or Northern Slow Loris (Nycticebus bengalensis - fig.), Pygmy or Lesser Slow Loris (Nycticebus pygmaeus), Javan Slow Loris (Nycticebus javanicus), and Bornean Slow Loris (Nycticebus menagensis). Slow Lorises are distributed throughout South and Southeast Asia, ranging from northeastern India to The Philippines and from Yunnan to Java. They have a rounded head, with small upright ears, large eyes and a narrow snout. Their trunks are long, whilst the arms and legs are nearly equal in length, with adaptations on the hands and feet, that enable them to grasp onto tree branches for extended periods. Their fur is greyish-buff to brown, with a variety of darker markings, depending on the species. Used for both defense from predators and to protect their fur, slow lorises are able to produce a toxin. They have glands in the flexor region of their upper arms that ooze a sticky oil-like substance which mixed with saliva turns toxic, activated by enzymes in the saliva, which is achieved by licking these brachial glands. Bites of slow lorises, though rare, can be extremely painful and can put a human into anaphylactic shock within less than an hour, potentially causing death. The ability to produce this two-stage venom is unique in the animal kingdom and makes the slow loris the only venomous primate on the planet. So far only three species have been tested for venom, namely Nycticebus bengalensis, Nycticebus coucang and Nycticebus pygmaeus, but observations suggest that the other species are equally venomous. To increase its survival rate if spotted, the slow loris freezes and covers its face, assuming a posture that makes its eyes and the stripes on its face resemble the markings of a cobra, especially the monocle mark, but which in Indonesia gave it the nickname the Shy One. It will furthermore mimic a cobra by using the extra vertebrae in its neck to sway like a snake and is even known to make hissing sounds. It otherwise makes little to no noise, and reminiscent of the sloth, this arboreal omnivorous mammal moves about very slowly, hence its common designation. 回

Small Indian Civet

A species of civet with the binomial name Viverricula indica. It is found in South and mainland Southeast Asia. READ ON. 回

Small Indian Kite

Another designation for the Pariah Kite. 回

Small Salmon Arab

Common name for a butterfly, with the scientific designation Colotis amata. It is a small butterfly in the family Pieridae, found in some parts of Asia. The male's upperside has a salmon-pink ground-colour, with black edges and markings (fig.), whereas the underside is yellowish-green, with a dirty wash and some of the black markings of the upperside showing through. In the female, the ground-colour of the upperside is paler than in the male and the markings are duller, whilst the underside also has a much paler ground-colour and is more tawny-yellow, with a curved dark band and some spots (fig.). However, there is purportedly also another form of the female, in which the ground-colour is pale primrose-yellow to pure white. 回

Small Staff Sergeant

Common name for a butterfly, with the scientific designation Athyma zeroca and that belongs to the family Nymphalidae. Above the wings of the male are brownish-black, with a single white bar that stretches across the wings but ends at the lower apex of the forewings, which each have two larger and one smaller, obliquely-placed white patches. In addition the wing edges have a  double row of pale brownish patches, that –especially in the outer row– seems to form a continuous line. On the underside, the wings have a black and brown ground-colour, with a pattern of white and pale lilac streaks and spots. This butterfly is found in tropical and subtropical Asia, including in Thailand, where it is called phi seua jah lek (ผีเสื้อจ่าเล็ก), i.e. ‘small sergeant butterfly’. 回

Small-toothed Palm Civet

See Three-striped Palm Civet. 回

Small Yellow Sailor

Common name for a butterfly, with the scientific designation Neptis miah, and with a wingspan of 4.3 to 5.3 centimeters. Above, the wings are black with yellowish-orange spots, that line up to form three vertical bands, of which the two upper ones are flanked by a slant bar. Its preferred habitats are jungle streams and rivers. This butterfly is very similar to the Cambodian Lascar (fig.). 回

Smiling Buddha

A designation for the Chinese god Budai. 回

snake

Elongated, limbless reptiles of the suborder Serpentes. READ ON. 回

snake bean

See tua fak yao. 回

snake cucumber

Name of a small bulbous member of the gourd family, that grows from a tropical vine. It is grown for its edible fruits, which are also known as ivy gourds and wild snake gourds, not to be confused with snake gourds (fig.). READ ON. 回

snake farm

Farm where venom is milked from snakes to produce antidotes for emergencies in case of venomous snake bites. The venom is injected into horses who produce the serum (fig.). The horses are unaffected by the poison. In Bangkok (map), the snake farm is linked with the Thai Red Cross Society (fig.) and the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute (fig.), and is open to the public (fig.). To save time in emergency situations, Thai hospitals and clinics around the country have a photographic name list of all indigenous, venomous snakes, including pictures of certain bite marks and their related health hazards (fig.). See also Siam Serpentarium and POSTAGE STAMP. 回

snake gourd

Name of an elongated and narrow gourd, which twists and becomes orange-red as it ripens. READ ON. 回

Snakeskin Gourami

See pla salid. 回

Snow Fungus

See hed hoo noo. 回

Snowlion

Name of a mythological animal from Tibet. READ ON. 回

Snowy Orchid-tree

A species of flowering shrub native to tropical southeastern Asia, with the botanical name Bauhinia acuminata and also commonly known as Dwarf White Bauhinia and White Orchid-tree. This shrub grows to a height of two to three meters. The leaves, typical of Bauhinia species, are bilobed and shaped somewhat like an ox hoof. Its fragrant flowers are 8 to 12 centimeters in diameter, with five white petals, ten yellow-tipped stamens, and a green stigma. It is widely cultivated throughout the tropics as an ornamental plant. The plant has a number of ethno-botanical uses. In Java, the roots are used to treat cough and cold, and in India the leaves and bark are used to treat asthma. In Thai, known as galong. 回

snuff bottle

Name for a kind of small flask formerly used in China to hold powdered tobacco, somewhat similar to a western snuff box. READ ON. 回

so (ซอ)

Thai. General name for traditional fiddle-like, bowed string instruments. The name probably goes back to a related instrument, in Thai comparably known as so (fig.), a word that itself is related to tro, a Khmer word for a similar two-stringed musical instrument in Cambodia. There are several types of so, including the three-stringed so sahm saai, the two-stringed so uh and the two-stringed so duang. 回

so (ทร้อ)

Thai. Another name for saloh (fig.). The writing using the letters tho thahaan (ท) and roh reua (ร) which combined are pronounced as a s-sound in Thai, is directly related to the Khmer word and musical instrument, named tro. 回

So (โส้, โซ่)

See Soh. 回

Socialist Realism

Name of a communist art style that is characterized by the glorified and highly idealized depiction of communist values while romanticizing the revolutionary idea. Though it originated in the Soviet Union in the early 1920s, it is still prevalent today in a number socialist countries, such as China, Cambodia (fig.) and Vietnam (fig.). Socialist Realism is often State-sponsored and used as a form of propaganda that aims at elevating the proletariat, i.e. the common workers and soldiers, while at the same time idolizing political leaders, who usually pose as common people. In many cases it is also used in statues that glorify war heroes (fig.). See also TRAVEL PICTURE (1), (2), (3) and (4). 回

sodahban (โสดาบัน)

Thai. Term used for one who has just attained the first stage of Enlightenment, a saint. The term also means sainthood and to attain sainthood. Also sodah and in Pali Sotapanna. 回

so duang (ซอด้วง)

Thai. Name of a two-stringed so with a slim wooden sound box which is made of a bamboo joint and with a bow attached to the strings. The front of the body is covered with a piece of snake skin, whilst it is open in the back, to allow amplification of the sound resonance. Modern versions are often made of wood (fig.) and might be adorned with ivory. See also so uh. 回

Soh (โส้, โซ่)

Name of a small ethnic group that lives in Isaan, especially in Mukdahan, where they have been since the foundation of the city. In 1816, during the reign of Rama II, Soh people from several places from the Lao side of the Mekhong River, moved to Isaan and settled in places, such as Nong Kai, Sakon Nakhon, Kalasin, Ubon Ratchathani and Nakhon Phanom. Most settlers travelled on foot over paths that are still in use today, in particular by the Soh themselves, who use these ancient trails to visit relatives. They have their own language, dress and traditions, such as Soh Thang Pan. In Thai also called Chao Soh and sometimes transliterated So. 回

sohm jihn (โสมจีน)

Thai for ginseng. 回

Sohmsawalih (โสมสวลี)

Thai. Former wife of Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn (fig.) and Princess Mother of King Bhumiphon's first grandchild, i.e. Princess Phatcharakitiyapha. She was born on Saturday 13 July 1957 as Soamsawali Kitthiyagon (โสมสวลี กิติยากร), a niece of Queen Sirikit Kitthiyagon, with the title of momluang. In 1991, after her divorce with the Crown Prince, she was given the title Phra Woraraja Thinatdahmaht (พระวรราชาทินัดดามาตุ), i.e. ‘Glorious Royal Niece and Mother’, but in translation usually referred to as ‘The Princess Mother of the King's First Grandchild’. Her personal flag consists of a lilac field (i.e. a pale form of purple, the colour of the day on which she was born according to the sih prajam wan system), with her initials, i.e. a strongly stylized pink and white S (ส) bordered by purple and underneath a golden yan sign (fig.). Often transcribed Soamsavali and Soamsawali. 回

Soh Thang Pan (โส้ทั้งปั้น, โซ่ทั้งปั้น)

Name of a traditional dance performed in Nakhon Phanom, by the men and women of the Soh, an ethnic group that lives in Isaan. It is performed during funeral ceremonies, in order to send the soul of the deceased to heaven. Also called Praphenih Soh Thang Pan. 回

sok (ศอก)

Thai. ‘Elbow’ or ‘cubit’. An ancient measure of length, approximating to the length of a forearm. Since 1 sok equals 2 keub, 1 sok in the past was 60.96 centimeters, but since 1 keub has now been fixed at 25 centimeters 1 sok in modern measurements is only 50 centimeters. Also transcribed sawk or sauk. 回

sokushinbutsu (即身仏)

Japanese. ‘Immediate buddha body’. Name of a today outlawed process in which Buddhist priests in Japan tried to mummify themselves, through a regimen of rigorous diets, that included eating bark and roots, and drinking poisonous tea made from the toxic sap of the Urushi tree, normally used to produce lacquer, in order to expedite their path to Enlightenment, believing that they would instantly attain buddhahood if they succeeded. It is assumed that the practice of self-mummification was brought to Japan by the Buddhist monk Kukai, as part of secret Tantric practices he learned in China. 回

Soldier Fly

Any fly in the family Stratiomyidae, a reasonably large family of true flies in the order Diptera, found worldwide and containing about 400 genera and over 2,800 described species, but which is particularly diverse in the tropics. The name Stratiomyidae is a composite that derives from the Greek words startiotehs (στρατιώτης) and muia (μυια), meaning ‘soldier’ and ‘fly’, respectively. Though Soldier Flies are diverse in size and shape, they commonly are either partly or wholly metallic green, with some members imitating features of wasps. They are often rather inactive and typically rest with their wings placed one above the other over the abdomen. These flies do not bite nor sting and their name is said to derive from the bright, almost militaristic colours. 回

solot (โสฬส)

Thai. An obsolete Thai monetary unit equal to one 1.128th of a baht. It is still found on ancient coins and stamps (fig.). Also lot. 回

som (ส้ม)

Thai for ‘orange’. READ ON. 回

soma (सोम)

Sanskrit. Life nectar identified with the elixir of immortality or amrita. 回

Soma (सोम)

Sanskrit. Another name for the moon god Chandra. 回

Somdet (สมเด็จ)

Thai. ‘Majesty’, ‘serenity’, or ‘holiness’. Title usually utilized as a prefix in titles of kings, as well as with names of royalty or monks of high rank, as in Somdet Phra Phutthachan. From the Ayutthaya Period (1350-1767) onward the title for a monarch is Somdet (Phra), in the Thonburi period (1767-1782) this has changed into Somdet Phra Chao and in the Rattanakosin or Bangkok period (after 1782), it is Phrabaht Somdet (Phra), followed by the name and when referring to the king also by suffix Chao Yuh Hua (เจ้าอยู่หัว), which means ‘the Lord who is (at) the head’. 回

Somdet Ong Pathom 21 Sok (สมเด็จองค์ปฐม ๒๑ ศอก)

Thai. Name of a large Buddhist shrine in the tambon Tha Kanun (ท่าขนุน), amphur Thong Pha Phum (ทองผาภูมิ), in Kanchanaburi Province, and located at the beginning of the National Road 323 to Sangkhlaburi, where at the end of this same road into this border town with Myanmar is a similar —yet smaller— roadside shrine (fig.), that belongs to Sangkhlaburi's Wat Somdet (fig.), while the Somdet Ong Pathom 21 Sok shrine is part of the nearby Buddhist temple Wat Kanun and features a giant white Buddha image seated in the bhumisparsa pose on an elevated platform. The platform is flanked on either side by a large open sala-like hall each of which contains a row of 17 gilded Buddha images, all also seated in the maravijaya pose. Since 1 sok is 50 centimeter, its name suggests that the principal Buddha image is 10.5 meter tall. See also Somdet, ong and sok. See also PANORAMA PICTURES, and TRAVEL PICTURES, as well as MAP. 回

Somdet Phra Boromma Raja Channanie (สมเด็จพระบรมราชชนนี)

Thai. Title for the mother of the king. See also Somdet, Phra, Borom, Raja and Channanie. 回

Somdet Phra Bowon Raja Chao Maha Surasinghanat (สมเด็จพระบวรราชเจ้ามหาสุรสิงหนาท)

Thai. The official and full title of Surasinghanat (Boonma), the first Uparacha or Viceroy (map - fig.) of the Rattanakosin Period and the younger brother of King Rama I. See MAP and TRAVEL PICTURE. 回

som chun (ส้มฉุน)

Thai. Name of a traditional dessert, whose designation literally translates as ‘pungent orange’. The dish is divided into two types, namely royal style and villager style. The royal style uses sweet and sour summer fruits, floating in syrup, which is made from water scented with pandan, sour orange juice, salt, sugar, and scented jasmine water, i.e. water obtained by floating jasmine flower buds on its surface to absorb the scent. Popular fruits are sour orange segments, lychees, jackfruit, sa-la, lamyai, slices of sour mango, and longkong, whilst other popular ingredients may include fried onion and sliced ginger. The villager style variety uses sour fruits, such as raw mango or gooseberry, mixed with sugar, fish sauce and dried shrimp. This dessert has similar characteristics to loi kaew and is eaten cool.  See also POSTAGE STAMPS. 回

Somdet Phra Pan Pie Luang (สมเด็จพระพันปีหลวง)

Thai. ‘Holy Majesty worshipped for a thousand years’. Mother of the king, and widow of nobility. See also Somdet, Phra, Luang and panwatsa. 回

som fak (ส้มฟัก)

Thai. A snack of sour shredded fish mixed with fermented rice and wrapped in banana leaves. 回

som kaek (ส้มแขก)

Thai. Name for a fruit, made up of the words som and kaek, which translate as ‘orange’ and ‘foreign’. It has the scientific name Garcinia cambogia and belongs to the same genus as the mangosteen, which is in Latin known as Garcinia mangostana. This yellowish to orange fruit is pumpkin-shaped and is primarily found in the southern part of Thailand. It is used as a herb to loose weight, since the fruit contains hydroxycitric acid or HCA, a derivative of citric acid that is found in a variety of tropical plants, and high quantities of its extracts are purportedly effective in suppressing fat accumulation, though are also potentially hepatotoxic and could cause liver damage. In English it is commonly known as Gambooge, Brindleberry, Brindall berry and Malabar tamarind, and in Sri Lanka it is called Goraka. Products made from the som kaek fruit are a well-known souvenir from Narathiwat province. 回

som ma-ngua (ส้มมะงั่ว)

Thai for a large lemon-like fruit of the genus Citrus medica l. var. medica, somewhat resembling a citron or yellow lemon. 回

som-oh (ส้มโอ)

Thai name for pomelo. 回

som-oh meua (ส้มโอมือ)

Thai. ‘Hand pomelo’. Name for the inedible fingered citron, which has no flesh of fruit in it, but consists only of a thick rind. It originates from India and was brought to China by a Buddhist monk, where it was given the nickname Buddha's Hand, since this fragrant lemon-like citrus fruit consists of segmented, yet partly fused, finger-like sections (fig.). It is used predominantly in Chinese culture as a perfume and air freshener, as well as a religious offering (fig.) in Buddhist temples (fig.). Its trinomial name is Citrus medica var. sarcodactylus. In Chinese, it is called fu shou, with the first word sounding like fu, which means ‘blessing’, ‘good luck’ and ‘happiness’. It is hence regarded as one of the three fruits of abundance, together with the peach and the pomegranate. As such, it also occurs frequently in oriental art (fig.). 回

somphop (สมภพ)

Thai. Rajasap or royal language for ‘birth’, a term similar to phrasoot. Compare with sinphrachon and sawankot. 回

som set (สมเสร็จ)

See phasom set. 回

som si thong (ส้มสีทอง)

Thai. ‘Golden orange’. A special variety of som (orange), grown in the northern province of Nan. Though of the same species as oranges of the Central Plain, climatic differences make this specific golden-skinned type more aromatic. 回

somtam (ส้มตำ)

Thai. A popular native dish of sliced green papaya mashed and mixed with spices (i.e. chilies, sugar, palm sugar, lemon or lemon juice and fish sauce), tomatoes, peanuts and sometimes dried shrimps and carrots. Generally it will be mixed with a raw crab in which case it is called somtam poo and in Isaan it is often mixed with akind of fermented fish called pla rah, a dish known as somtam Lao or somtam pla rah. A popular vegetarian version is somtam khai khem, papaya salad mixed with a salted (khem) duck's egg (khai). It is especially liked by people from Isaan. If it is eaten without any extra ingredients it is called somtam Thai. 回

somtam poo (ส้มตำปู)

Thai. The dish somtam mixed and pounded with a crab, either a raw, fresh water crab, known in Thai as poo jeud (fig.), or with a land crab, known in Thai as poo nah (fig.), though the above names might be more specified or other names, as well as other species of crab may be used, such as poo daeng (ปูแดง) which translates as ‘red crab’; poo seua (ตําปูเสื่อ), i.e. ‘reed mat crab’; poo mah (ตําปูม้า), i.e. ‘horse crab’; etc. Also transcribed somtam pu. 回

somwang (สมหวัง)

Thai name for the Chinese water chestnut, a tuber-like stem base, known as a corm or bulbo-tuber, of a species of sedge, with the botanical name Eleocharis dulcis, which grows in the muddy soil of marshes. Officially and originally it was -and by some it is still- called haew, which also means ‘to be disappointed’. Thus, when describing it, it sounded rather negative and the name was almost jokingly changed to somwang, which literally means ‘to live up to one's expectation’. These small aquatic corms are rounded in shape and reddish-brown in colour, with a somewhat cone-shaped, tapered end at the basal area. Inside, they have a crunchy, pale yellowish flesh (fig.), which is edible. They are a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine and can be eaten raw, slightly boiled, grilled, pickled or sweetened. In Thailand, they are often eaten as dessert and are the main ingredient in a dessert called thabthim krob (ทับทิมกรอบ), literally ‘crispy rubies’. In Chinese called biqi. See also krajab. 回

son (ซ่อน)

Thai northern dialect (kham meuang). Name for a kind of small fish trap made of bamboo. See also saab, lob, sai and sang. 回

song (ทรง)

Thai. A prefix used to form terms of reverence when speaking of or addressing royalty or deity. When it is used before a noun it has the force of a verb, the term becoming an intransitive verb with a meaning appropriate to the object, as in songmah. See also rajasap. 回

song (สรง)

Rajasap or Thai term used by and for royalty, monks and priests to take a bath, and in expressions such as song nahm phra. 回

song bah dahn (ทรงบาดาล)

Thai name for a species of 3 to 5 meter-sized flowering shrub or small tree, that originates from Polynesia, and with the botanical names Cassia surattensis and Senna surattensis. In English, it is commonly known as Scrambled Egg Tree, whilst in the South Pacific region it is called Kalamona. It also goes by the designation Glaucous Cassia. The botanical term glaucous derives from the Greek word glaukos (γλαυκός), which means ‘bluish-grey’ and refers to the bluish-grey powder-like or waxy coating or film on the surface of the tapering, egg-shaped leaves (i.e. rounded at both ends or slightly notched or pointed), that can easily be rubbed off, akin to the pale substance on plants (fig.), fruits and vegetables (fig.), which in Thai is referred to as nuan. This tree bears bright yellow flowers with five petals, and blooms in cycles year-round. Its fruit consists of a flat, elongated pod, which is between 7 and 10 centimeters long, and about 1 to 1.5 centimeters wide. Below, the pod has a straight base with rounded edges and a short, yet very thin, needle-like, protruding pointed tip in the middle. 回

Songkhla (สงขลา)

Thai. Name of a province (map) and its capital seaport-city in South Thailand. READ ON. 回

Songkhla Lake

Name of a lagoon located in the southern, peninsular part of Thailand, and often referred to as the largest natural lake in the nation. It covers an area of ca. 1,040 square kilometers (map) and borders Songkhla Province in the North, South and East, and Pattalung Province in the West. It consists of three distinct parts, i.e. Thalae Saab Ton Bon (ทะเลสาบตอนบน), i.e. ‘Upper Lake’, in the North; Thalae Saab Ton Klahng (ทะเลสาบตอนกลาง), i.e. ‘Central Lake’, in the middle; and a southern part known as Thalae Saab Ton Lahng (ทะเลสาบตอนล่าง), i.e. the ‘Lower Lake’, which gives access to the sea by a narrow strait, that connects to the Gulf of Thailand. The lake is fed by several rivers and its salinity levels hence change accordingly, especially with regard to location and the season. A small population of Irrawaddy Dolphins is found in the Central Lake. 回

Songkraan (สงกรานต์)

Thai-Sanskrit. ‘To rise’ and ‘to move’. It refers to the date on which the sun moves into Aries, the sign of the zodiac (fig.) also known as the Ram. It is considered the beginning of a new year, the end of the dry season and the incitement of the first rains. According to the lunar calendar Songkraan usually falls in mid-April and is in Thailand celebrated from the 13th to 15th. In preparation houses are cleaned and all rubbish is burnt. Families get together and it is an opportunity to show solidarity. In religion Buddha images are sprinkled with water (fig.), an act called song nahm phra. Youths will pay their respect to the elderly and monks by sprinkling them with water while on the streets a celebration takes place in the form of a water festival (fig.) in which water is tossed exuberantly (fig.). Another practice during the festival is to smear each others face with wet talcum (fig.) or lavishly throw the dry powder around, creating large dusty clouds (fig.). There are also parades featuring a Miss Songkraan, in Thai called Nang Songkraan, and who in fact represents (one of) the seven daughters of Tao Kabin Maha Phrom, a deity who had his head cut off when losing a bet, and which in the parade is carried on a phaan (fig.) or platter by Nang Songkraan. In Myanmar the festival is called Thingyan and in Isaan it is referred to as boon song nahm. In Thai also called Trut Thai, i.e. ‘Thai New Year’. See also POSTAGE STAMPS (1) and (2), and WATCH VIDEO. 回

Son Glin (ซ่อนกลิ่น)

Thai. ‘Concealed Fragrance’. Thai name for the Tuberose. 回

songmah (ทรงม้า)

Rajasap for ‘riding a horse’. 回

songmah kanthaka (ทรงม้ากัณฐกะ)

Thai. ‘Riding the horse Kanthaka’. Term in rajasap referring to a scene in the life of Siddhartha in which the horse Kanthaka carries the prince away from the palace during the Great Departure (fig.). 回

song nahm phra (สรงน้ำพระ)

Thai-Rajasap. The sprinkling of Buddha images with water. It is a religious activity with the intention to pay respect to the Lord Buddha and takes place particularly during the festival of Songkraan. In Burma, the ritual is a regular practice performed by visitors to the Shwedagon pagoda on a daily basis, rather than an event reserved only for the annual water festival (fig.). Song is also the Thai term used for and by monks to express ‘bathing’. See also kruad nahm, kong hod and boon song nahm. See also POSTAGE STAMP. 回

songthaew (สองแถว)

Thai. ‘Two rows’. Pick-up or truck (fig.) with two rows of seats or benches in the back and a roof covering. It usually operates as a share taxi, i.e. somewhere between a private taxi and a conventional bus, on a fixed or semi-fixed route and for a set fare, but without a fixed time schedule and able to stop anywhere to pick up or drop off passengers. It may also be hired individually like a regular private taxi. They come in different sizes and are more common outside Bangkok. At the end of the line and at popular stops the driver may wait for enough customers before setting off again. When all seats are taken passengers often hang from the back or sit on the roof. See also POSTAGE STAMPS. 回

Song Tham (ทรงธรรม)

King of Ayutthaya, from 1610 to 1628. 回

soob lom (สูบลม)

Thai name for a bellows, i.e. a device designed to deliver a strong blast of air, which in Thailand is typically cylindrical in shape and made from wood or bamboo. READ ON. 回

soom kai (สุ่มไก่)

Thai. A convex shaped, backyard chicken coop, woven from thin bamboo strips and used for keeping poultry. It is placed over the fowl to entrap it and often a heavy object is placed on the top, to prevent the animal from overturning the cage. At the top it has a round opening to allow one to grab or feed the animal. When it is in the open some keepers place a piece of plastic or cloth on the top for shade or against the rain. In Phitsanulok, a giant chicken coop is erected at the Indochina Intersection (map - fig.). See also takra sai kai and TRAVEL PICTURE and WATCH VIDEO. 回

soom pla (สุ่มปลา)

Thai. A bell shaped coop-like tool woven with spacious intervals from thin bamboo strips and used to catch fish, frogs and other aquatic animals in shallow water, most commonly in rice paddies (fig.). The coop has a tapering shape and an opening at the top. It is placed over the fish to entrap it and is then caught by hand through the opening at the top. It is used in combination with a takong to store the fish already caught. They are sometimes used as lampshades or lanterns (fig.) in local restaurants and are sold in miniature as a souvenir. See also THEMATIC STREET LIGHT. 回

Soon Oo Pon Nya Shin (ဆွမ်းဦးပုညရှင်)

Burmese. Name of a Buddhist hilltop temple in Sagaing. READ ON. 回

Soon Phumipanyah Manut (ศูนย์ภูมิปัญญามนุษย์)

Thai. ‘Human Wisdom Center’. Name of a building at Wat Pathum Wongsawaht (fig.), a Buddhist temple in Nakhon Nayok, that houses a local Thai Phuan textile museum, as well as an atelier with treadle operated looms traditionally used for hand weaving of fabrics, such as silk. It also displays the utensils of the Thai Phuan people, as well as woven fabrics in various patterns of these Laotian immigrants who settled in this area over 200 years ago. WATCH VIDEO and VIDEO (E). 回

Soon Rian Roo Phalang Ngaan Thot Thaen Bangchak (ศูนย์เรียนรู้พลังงานทดแทนบางจาก)

See Sunny Bangchak. 回

Sooty-headed Bulbul

Designation for a species of songbird with the binomial name Pycnonotus aurigaster and native to Southeast Asia, from Myanmar and South China to Java. It has a black cap, and a white rump. There are several subspecies, including Pycnonotus aurigaster klossi, with a red vent (fig.) and somewhat reminiscent of the Red-whiskered Bulbul (fig.), and Pycnonotus aurigaster thais, which has a yellow vent (fig.) and is the variety most commonly found in Thailand. In Thai it is known as nok parod hua sih kamao. See also WILDLIFE PICTURES. 回

sop (สบ)

Thai. ‘Junction’. The word is derived from Khmer and refers to an area at the confluence of two rivers. It is used in certain place names in the north of Thailand, e.g. Sop Mey (Sop Moei) in Mae Hong Son where the Mey (Moei) river unites with the Salawin river, and Sop Ruak which is located at the Golden Triangle where the Ruak River (fig.), named after a species of small bamboo and the natural border line between Burma and Thailand, flows into the Mekhong river, etc. Sometimes transcribed sob. 回

so sahm saai (ซอสามสาย)

Thai. ‘Three-stringed so’. A traditional fiddle-like instrument with three strings and played with a bow (fig.). Its body is usually made from a large polished coconut shell cut in half, and covered with animal skin. To reduce the skin's resonance, the player typically glues a jewel onto the skin before playing (fig.). It is the hardest to play among the different types of traditional fiddle-like, bowed string instruments, such as the so and so, and is hence frequently used in pictures to show off ones knowledge or high social status. Well-off musicians would have their instrument custom-made from superior materials. The so sahm saai is comparable to the saloh (fig.). See also mahori. In 1970, the so sahm saai was depicted on one of a set of four Thai postage stamps featuring Thai musical instruments (fig.). 回

Sotapanna (โสดาบัน)

Pali-Sanskrit-Thai. ‘Stream-enterer’. Name of the first of the four stages of Enlightenment in Theravada Buddhism, i.e. the stage before Sakadagami, in which someone has entered the stream leading to nirvana, the state of liberation. In reaching this stage, one has successfully cut off the first three of the ten chains that bind beings to samsara, i.e. the the perpetual cycles of birth, death, and rebirth. The three chains that are cut in this stage are: 1. the eradication of the belief in a permanent, unchanging self; 2. the elimination of all doubt regarding the Trairat, Rattanatrai or Triple Gem, i.e. the Buddha, his teachings known as the Dhamma, and the order of monks called the Sangha; 3. the dismissal of the misconception that mere external observances or rituals could lead to liberation. By overcoming these initial three fetters, a Sotapanna has entered the stream of Enlightenment and is assured of eventual liberation, as they have gained an unshakable confidence in the path to nirvana. 回

Sothon (โสธร)

See Phra Phutta Sothon. 回

sot sri racha (ซอสศรีราชา)

Thai. ‘Sri Racha sauce’. Name of a thick hot sauce, made from a paste of sweet chili peppers, rice vinegar, garlic, sugar and salt. READ ON. 回

so uh (ซออู้)

Thai. ‘Whining so’. Name of a two-stringed fiddle-like, bowed string instrument, with a sound box that consists of a polished coconut shell of which the front is covered with buffalo skin (fig.), whilst it is open in the back, to allow amplification of the sound resonance. The sound hole is at times decorated with elegantly carved figures (fig.). It is played whilst seated (fig.), with a bow which is attached in between the two strings, making it different from its northern counterpart, the saloh (fig.). See also so duang. 回

sour sack

Common name for a small tree in the family Annonaceae, with the botanical designation Annona muricata, and also commonly known as prickly custard apple, soursop and soursapi (fig.). Its edible fruit, which is referred to by the same names, is egg-shaped, dark green, and with a prickly skin. It can weigh up to 10 kilograms and grow up to 30 centimeters in length. The juicy flesh of fruit is acidic and whitish in colour, and its aromatic pulp is used to prepare juices. It has black seeds and in cross-section, it is reminiscent of its cousin, the sugar apple (fig.). The petals of its flowers are thick and creamy-yellowish in colour (fig.). Its glossy, dark green leaves are oblong and measure up to 16 centimeters long and are about 7 centimeters wide (fig.). They are somewhat paler below than above. This plant is originally from the Caribbean, but is now found in many tropical regions around the world, including in Southeast Asia, where it arrived via the Philippines. In Filipno it is called guyabano; in Vietnam mang cau gai; in Indonesia sirsak; and in Thai thurian thet (ทุเรียนเทศ), i.e. ‘outlandish durian’. 回

South China Sea

Name of a significant maritime domain that borders the shores of China, the Philippines, Borneo, a northern section of Indonesia, and mainland Southeast Asia. READ ON. 回

Southeast Asian Box Turtle

Name of a semi-aquatic turtle with a blackish brown to olive brown coloured carapace and a blackish olive head with yellow stripes on the side, and a pale, yellowish pink chin and throat. Its scientific name is Cuora amboinensis, referring to the island of Ambon in Indonesia. It is found from northeastern India and Bangladesh to the Philippines and, with the exception of New Guinea, the whole of Indonesia. Southeast Asian Box Turtles live mainly in lowland swamps, though they may sporadically occur in forests and other places well away from water. They are omnivores feeding on soft vegetation and fruit, as well as earthworms, fish, mollusks and crustaceans. It is alternatively known as Amboina Box Turtle (fig.) or Asian Box Turtle, and in Thai as tao hab, meaning ‘shut turtle’ or ‘closed turtle’, referring to fact that the plastron, the flat to slightly concave part of the shell structure on the turtle's underside, fits tightly in the openings of the dome-shaped carapace. Full-grown adults are about 25 centimeters long. 回

Southeast Asian House Mouse

A subspecies of the common House Mouse (Mus musculus), with the scientific name Mus castaneus, which is endemic to Southeast Asia. It has brownish-beige upperparts, with a greyish shine, a white belly, and a long dark tail. It typically dwells near rice granaries in rice producing townships. 回

Southeast Asian Spiny Turtle

Name of a semi-terrestrial turtle, with the scientific name Heosemys spinosa, and with a strongly-serrated carapace edge and spiny keel, features that fade away with age, making older individuals much smoother than juveniles. It is found in the Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar, and Thailand. It inhabits wet evergreen forests, usually in the vicinity of small streams, both in lowland and hill areas. Its colouration, i.e. a brownish carapace and a blackish head and legs, help camouflage this species amongst the leaf litter of the forest floor which it habitats. Apparently, mating behaviour is stimulated by rainfall, and males in captivity purportedly become excited when sprayed with water, chasing females in an attempt to mount. This unique turtle is portrayed on one of a set of four Thai postage stamps issued in 2004, in order to publicize turtles and to promote their conservation (fig.). In Thai, it is known as tao chak (เต่าจักร), i.e. ‘Cog-wheel Turtle’. 回

Southeast Asia Treaty Organization

See SEATO. 回

Southern Forest Crested Lizard

See king kah kaew tai. 回

Southern Pig-tail Macaque

See ling hang san. 回

Southern White-cheeked Gibbon

Common designation for a species of gibbon endemic to Laos and Vietnam, and with the scientific name Nomascus siki. READ ON. 回

soybean

High-protein bean of the soy, a plant species originally from China and Japan. It has the botanical name Glycine max and grows between 50 and 125 centimeters tall. Soybeans are used to make soy sauce and tofu, among other things. Fresh they are used as an important ingredient in phad thai and in spring rolls. Also called soya bean and in Thai thua leuang. Its pods are somewhat similar to those of the pigeon pea, a shrub known in Thai as thua rae and thua ma hae. 回

Soybean Pod Bug

Name of an insect in the family Coreidae, with the scientific name Riptortus linearis. It has a brownish body, with pale yellowish underparts and protruding eyes. The legs are light brown and the hind legs are large with spikes. Both the larvae and adults of this species feed on the juice of soybeans, hence its common name. In Thai, it is known as muan thua leuang (มวนถั่วเหลือง). 回

soy sauce

Name of a fermented sauce invented in China and which is widely used as a seasoning condiment in East and Southeast Asian cooking. It is made from soybeans, roasted grain, water and salt. There are two types, i.e. light soy sauce and dark soy sauce. In Thai it is called nahm sih eew (น้ำซีอี๊ว) and in Chinese jiangyou (酱油) which literally means ‘thick oily sauce’ or chiyou (豉油) which translates as ‘fermented beans oil’. Also soya sauce. 回

spa (สปา)

Term initially used for a therapeutic water treatment, though in a modern and commercial sense the term has internationally expanded to cover a much wider field of treatments, often including also herbal therapies, as well as reflexology and massage, and it over time has also become the name given to establishments that offer such treatments. The name derives from the Belgian town of Spa, which dates back to Roman times when it was called Aquae Spadanae and which up to the present-day is famous for its natural mineral springs, though in a commercial context it is often unjustly claimed to be an acronym for sanitas per aquam, i.e. Latin for ‘health through water’. Most decent hotels in Thailand nowadays offer a spa, usually with a variety of treatments, and in many places spas can also be found in and around commercial areas, such as markets and shopping malls. 回

Spade-leaf Sword

Common name for an aquatic plant with the botanical designation Echinodorus cordifolius and which in Thai is known as bua amason (fig.). 回

Spanish Flag

See phakah krong. 回

Spanish Moss

Common name for an angiosperm in the family Bromeliaceae, with the botanical name Tillandsia usneoides, that grows hanging from tree branches. Despite its common name (moss) and it specific name (usneoides), which means ‘resembling Usnea’, i.e. the generic and botanical name of a plant commonly known as Tree Moss or Beard Lichen, it is in fact related neither to mosses nor to lichen, and though listed as a flowering plant, its flowers are tiny and inconspicuous. In Thailand, its is cultivated as an ornamental plant, which is typically found in parks and gardens. In Thai, it is commonly known by the names nuad reusi and krao reusi (เคราฤาษี), which both mean ‘hermit's beard’ or ‘reusi's beard’ (fig.). Spanish Moss is related to the Silver Star (fig.), a small epiphyte, with the botanical name Tillandsia stricta. See also reusi. 回

spathe

Large bract or bracts enveloping a flower-cluster, from the Greek word spathe (σπάθη), meaning ‘sword’ or ‘broad blade’. Although usually translated as ‘sword’, it actually refers to any broad blade, either of wood or metal. In Thai called kaab. 回

spean (ស្ពាន)

Cambodian for ‘bridge’, comparable to the Thai word saphaan. Also transliterated s'bpee-un. The Khmer term is mostly used when referring to antique Cambodian architecture, e.g. the Naga-bridge at the South gate of Angkor Thom (map - fig.), but also as the name of a ‘bridge head’, a natural sandstone rock bridge over a river in the jungle near Angkor. 回

Spean Neak (ស្ពាននាគ)

Khmer. ‘Naga-bridge’. Name for any bridge in Cambodia decorated with nagas, but especially the bridges of stone at the gates of Angkor Thom near Siem Reap (map - fig.), which are adorned with devas on the one and asuras on the other side, holding the serpent Vasuki, a scene from the Churning of the Ocean of Milk. In Thai, the term is Saphaan Naak, and is also used for stone staircases lined with naga banisters that lead to the main sanctuaries of ancient Khmer temples in Thailand, such as Prasat Hin Phimai (fig.). Since the naga is the guardian of the Buddha, as well as the protector of the earthly waters, bridges at Buddhist temples are usually adorned with nagas (fig.), allowing for a safe passage over the water. See also spean, neak, TRAVEL PICTURES (1) and (2), and MAP. 回

Spectacled Leaf Monkey

See Dusky Leaf Monkey. 回

Spectacled Spiderhunter

Common name for a species of passerine bird with the scientific designation Arachnothera flavigaster. READ ON. 回

spider

See maengmoom. 回

Spider Flower

See phak siang farang. 回

Spider Lily

1. A common name for the Crinum (Crinum asiaticum - fig.), besides Giant Crinum Lily, Grand Crinum Lily, and Poison Bulb. 回

2. Tropical plant with the Latin name Hymenocallis caribaea, and officially fully named Caribbean Spider Lily or Variegated Spider Lily. It carries white flowers with a diameter of up to 15 centimeters and resembling a white spider, hence its name. In Thai, it is called phlab phleung teen pet, which translates as ‘duck feet lily’, and refers to its resemblance of webbed duck's feet. See also Spider Flower (fig.). 回

Spider Tree

Another name for the Sacred Garlic Pear. 回

Spider Wasp

Generic common name for wasps that belongs to the family Pompilidae, a genus which contains some 5,000 species. READ ON. 回

spinning top

See look khaang. 回

Spiny-backed Spider

See maengmoom lang naam. 回

Spiny Balloonfish

Common name for a marine fish, with the scientific-Latin designation Diodon holocanthus. READ ON. 回

Spiny Bitter Gourd

Another name for the gac or Gac fruit, known in Thai as fak khao. 回

Spiny Bottom Tree Frog

Common name for an arboreal frog in the family Rhacophoridae, with the scientific designation Rhacophorus exchopygus. READ ON. 回

Spiny-tailed House Gecko

See jingjok. 回

Spiny Turtle

See Southeast Asian Spiny Turtle. 回

Spirama helicina

Latin. Scientific designation for the Contrasting Catocalin Moth, i.e. a species of Owlet Moth of the genus Spirama, of which there are several species. READ ON. 回

spirit house

Shrine where the guardian spirit of the land resides. When a new home is built scale models with a likeness of a puppet house or a miniature temple on a platform are placed in an auspicious spot, usually in front of the building or on the roof, so that the phra phum chao tih, the spirits that formerly lived on the land, can move into it. There are different guardian spirits for different spheres of influence, including Phra Chai Kassapa for barns and silos, Phra Chai Mongkhon for houses, Phra Chai Mongkut for farmyards and compounds, Phra Khan Thoraphon for cattle pens and corrals, Phra Khonthan for honeymoon homes, Phra Nakhonrat for gates and portals, Phra Thamahora for fields, Phra Than Thirat for gardens and orchards, and Phra That Tara for temples, monasteries and shrines. The location for the spirit house is often chosen after consultation with a brahmin priest. Commonly two spirit houses are erected next to each other (fig.). The larger one of the two has just one leg and is known as sahn phra phum, whilst the smaller one has four and sometimes six legs (fig.), and is referred to as sahn chao tih (fig.). Often a jawed (fig.), the image of a guardian spirit, is placed in the larger spirit house. Offerings are left at the spirit house to appease the spirits as most believe that otherwise those could cause problems. When a new spirit house is purchased, the old one cannot just be tossed aside or thrown out together with the household trash, but needs be neatly disposed of against the base of a sacred banyan tree or in the corner of a caring temple compound, where benevolent spirits will guard it (fig.). Some banyan trees host so many abandoned spirit houses that they look like reel spirit house graveyards and people will not pass by without making a respectful wai in its direction or honking their horn if driving a car. There are similar practices in many other countries of Southeast Asia (fig.), South Asia and the Far East. 回

Spot-billed Duck

Common name of  species of duck, with the scientific name Anas poecilorhyncha. It also commonly known as Spotbill and Indian Spot-billed Duck (fig.), and breeds in South, East and Southeastern Asia (fig.). Adults are 55-66 centimeters tall and typically have a yellow-tipped black bill, a pale head with a blackish crown and eyestripe. They have a brown-spotted breast and flanks, and their wings are brown, with white-edged, dark green speculum feathers (fig.), whilst the underwings are mostly white. Their legs are orange. There are several subspecies and some have a red loral spot (fig.), whilst the Chinese Spot-billed Duck has a blue speculum. 回

Spot-billed Pelican

See Grey Pelican. 回

Spotted Black Crow

Common designation for a butterfly, with the binomial name Euploea crameri bremeri. It is found in Asia and belongs to the Danaid group of butterflies, which includes both Crows and Tigers. Its wings, with a span of 88-94 mm, are very dark brown to almost black on the upperside and are almost unmarked, except for a marginal and submarginal series of white spots, of which the submarginal spots increase in size towards the front of the fore wings. The head, thorax and abdomen are very dark brown to greyish black and the head, as well as the underside of the thorax and abdomen, is spotted with white. The antennae are black. The male of this species extrudes a pair of yellow hair pencils from its abdomen when alarmed, presumably to startle or frighten would-be attackers. In Thai, it is known as phi seua jon kah laai jud. 回

Spotted Deer

Common name for a species of deer, with the scientific designation Axis axis and also commonly referred to as Chital or Cheetal. It is the most common deer species in the Indian subcontinent, besides India including also Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal (fig.), and to a lesser extend also Pakistan, and is easily recognized by its pinkish-fawn to ruddy-brown coat marked with white spots, and its white throat and underparts. Males grow up to 75 centimeter long antlers, which are usually three-pronged and curved. Though at first sight somewhat similar to the Siamese Brow-antlered Deer in summer coat (fig.), the species is actually a close relative of the Hog Deer (fig.). 回

Spotted Dove

Name for a long-tailed, slim pigeon which is a resident breeding bird in tropical southern Asia, from India and Sri Lanka, to south China and Southeast Asia. Its back, wings and tail are pale brown, with a black neck patch which is heavily spotted with white dots. The head and underparts are pinkish, shading to pale grey on the face and lower belly. The legs are pinkish red (fig.). Spotted Doves eat grass seeds, grains and other vegetation and, being rather terrestrial, forage on the ground, either alone or in pairs. It is also known as the Spotted-necked Dove and Spotted Turtle Dove, and either of these names sometimes with an additional adjective prefix that refers to its geographical habitat, i.e. Malayan, Indian or Chinese. In Malaysia it is popularly known as Terkukur, a name that sounds very much like its call, a gentle coo-coo-croo. Its scientific Latin name is Streptopelia chinensis and in Thai it is called nok khao yai, meaning ‘large turtle dove’. See also Oriental Turtle Dove. See also WILDLIFE PICTURES (1) and (2). 回

Spotted Flower Mantis

Common name for a species of praying mantis, with the scientific name Creobroter gemmatus. Males are about 4 centimeters in length, whilst females -that are known to be cannibalistic- grow up to 6 centimeters large. Both sexes are mainly green in colour, with a dark-edged, fawn spot on the wings, located approximately near the centre. Their legs are banded with a lighter, often green-yellowish colour. In Thai, it is called takkataen tam khao pihk taem (ตั๊กแตนตำข้าวปีกแต้ม), i.e. ‘spotted wing mantis’. Also commonly known as Jeweled Flower Mantis and Indian Flower Mantis. 回

Spotted Owlet

A small owl with the binomial name Athene brama, which is found in tropical and subtropical Asia, from India and Nepal (fig.) to Southeast Asia. This small species is about 21 centimeters tall, has no ear-tufts, grayish brown upperparts, heavily spotted with white, and lighter underparts streaked with brown. The facial disc is pale (fig.) with a white superciliary. Its eyes are black with a yellow iris. There are several subspecies and some forms are lighter than the nominate form. They like staying in cavities of old trees (fig.) and holes in walls (fig.) and temple ruins. It is mainly nocturnal, but is sometimes seen in the day, poking out its head from the shelter of its hole or perching in trees, where it is mobbed by other birds. It eats a variety of insects, worms and small vertebrates, including rodents, lizards and small birds. Like other nocturnal birds of prey, non-undigested food is pressed into a pellet and regurgitated. In Thai it is named nok khao jud. See also Zee Kwet. See also WILDLIFE PICTURES (1) and (2). 回

Spotted Palmfly

Common name for a species of butterfly, with the binomial name Elymnias malelas. It belongs to the Nymphalidae family and occurs in South and Southeast Asia. It has a wingspan between 7.5 and 9 centimeters, and its underwings are blackish-brown, with a whitish wash and a series of whitish spots, especially at the upper edge of the hindwings and to a lesser extend also near the apex of the forewings. In addition, there are two indistinct pale smudgy patches near the centre of the forewings. The upperwings are also overall blackish-brown, with a pale spot near the centre and a silvery-white wash and markings in the forewings of females, and a purplish-blue wash and markings in the forewings of males. The body is mostly black with white spots. In Thai, this butterfly is named phi seua non maprao laai jud (ผีเสื้อหนอนมะพร้าวลายจุด), which translates as ‘spotted coconut butterfly caterpillar’, a name that thus in part refers to its larvae, that feed on the leaves of coconut palms. 回

Spotted Wood-owl

An owl with the binomial name Strix seloputo, which belongs to the genus Strix, that consists of owls without ear-tufts. Its common name derives from the white spotting on its upperparts. In addition, it has heavy dark barring on the underparts and its facial disc is plain, pale rufous, whilst its eyes are black. It grows to a height of about 48 centimeters. The Spotted Wood-owl is found in Southeast Asia, including southern Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, southern Vietnam, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, though it is an uncommon resident in the two last places, and in Thailand most likely to be found on the southern peninsula. It occurs in lowland forest, secondary forests, mangroves and also near human settlements and cultivated areas, such as oil palm and rubber plantations. It is a nocturnal bird of prey and gets active early in the evening, though it is more often heard than seen, when they call to each other with a cry similar to a distant dog's bark. It prefers to perch high up in trees and if disturbed, it compresses its plumage to mimic a dead piece of wood, while watching with half-closed eyes. It feeds on small rodents, such as mice and rats, but also on insects, such as beetles. In Thai it is called nok khao pah lang jud. 回

Spring Festival

Another name for Chinese New Year. 回

Spung Tree

Common name of a large deciduous trees, with the botanical designation Tetrameles nudiflora, and known in Thai by the names ton somphong (ต้นสมพง) and ton ngun (ต้นงุ้น). It is found across southern Asia from the Indian subcontinent through southeast Asia and into northern Australia. It can grow to over 45 meters tall, its trunk is buttressed, and the bark is shiny grey. In Cambodia, it is famous for growing on top of some of the ancient  Khmer ruins at Angkor Wat (fig.), especially in Ta Prohm (fig.), where Red-breasted Parakeets (fig.) and Siamese Alexandrine Parakeets (fig.) have regularly been observed perching  and nesting high-up in large hollows in the trunk and branches of these trees. 回

spring roll

See popiya. 回

squirrel

See kra-rohk. 回

sra (สระ)

Thai for ‘pool’ or ‘pond’. Also transcribed sa, as the r is not pronounced. It is the Thai equivalent for the Khmer word srah and is especially used to refer to the water basins in ancient temples. Those usually consist of rectangular or occasionally L-shaped reservoirs, which are made with large laterite or stone blocks, and often with a staircase that descends into the water. They are thought to have been used for ritual bathing. The name sra regularly occurs in names of temples, as well as in place names, e.g. Sa Kaeo. See also ghat (fig.), baray (fig.) and baoli. 回

srah (ស្រះ)

Khmer word for ‘pool’ or ‘pond’. Also transcribed sra or sa, and the Cambodian equivalent for the Thai word sra or sa. It is especially used to refer to the water basins in ancient temples. See also baray (fig.). 回

Sra Pathum (สระปทุม)

Thai for ‘Lotus Pond’, a name often used for Buddhist temples, as well as for the very first airport in Thailand, usually referred to as Sanam Bin Sra Pathum (fig.), i.e. ‘Lotus Pond Airfield’, and for a royal palace in Bangkok's Pathumwan District, located along Khlong Maha Naak (fig.) and commonly referred to as Wang Sra Pathum, i.e.  ‘Lotus Pond Palace’. The palace is the former residence of Queen Sawang Watthana and is currently used as the residence of Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. 回

Sravasti (श्रावस्ती)

Hindi. A ancient city in North India where the Buddha meditated and performed a number of miracles. As a reaction to those who doubted his teachings the Buddha performed the Great Miracle in which he levitated whilst water and fire gushed from his body, and his appearance multiplied. 回

srei (ស្រី)

Cambodian or Khmer for ‘woman’, as in Banteay Srei. It is also transcribed srey and a synonym of sadarih, reminiscent of the Thai word satri (สตรี), i.e. ‘lady’, ‘woman’ or ‘girl’. MORE ON THIS. 回

Sri (ศรี)

1. Pali. Goddess of fortune and wealth, and consort of the Hindu god Vishnu. Also known as Lakshmi and in Sanskrit transcribed as Shri. See also abhisheka of Sri. 回

2. Thai. Prefix meaning ‘majestic’ and ‘glorious’ and is often placed before proper names and place names, as in Phra Nakhon Sri Ayutthaya, the full name of Ayutthaya. Sometimes transcribed as Sih or Si and so pronounced. 回

3. Thai-Kham Meuang. In the northern Lan Na dialect Sri (ศรี) may be pronounced Sari (สะ-หรี) and then means ‘bodhi tree’. See also mai kham sarih (fig.). 回

Sri Aria Metrai (ศรีอริยเมตไตรย)

See Maitreya. 回

Sri Intaratit (ศรีอินทราทิตย์)

Warlord who at the beginning of the 13th century AD conquered an area in the North of Thailand ruled by the Khmer. In 1238, the Thai consequently founded their first independent kingdom of Sukhothai. Also transliterated Sri Intharathit (fig.) and Sri Intaratitya. See also list of Thai kings. 回

Sri Mariamman (ศรีมาเรียมมัน)

1. Another name for the Hindu goddess Lakshmi, who in South India is known as Mariamman or Maha Mariamman. 回

2. Name of each of the many temples around the world, dedicated to the Hindu deity Sri Mariamman, most of them of Tamil origin, such as the one in Singapore. Sometimes, as in Kuala Lumpur, Sri Maha Mariamman. WATCH VIDEO and READ VIDEO DESCRIPTION. 回

Sri Nagarindra (ศรีนครินทรา)

Official name of the Princess Mother, i.e. the mother of both King Bhumipon Adunyadet (fig.) and his older brother King Ananda Mahidol, who was born on Sunday 21 October 1900 as just Sangwaan (สังวาลย์), initially without a family name, as the use of those only started in 1913, after which the surname Talaphat (ตะละภัฏ) was added. The initials of this name Sangwaan, i.e. a strongly stylized white S (ส) and W (ว) appear in her Royal Cypher, which is otherwise shaped as a lotus bud. Her personal flag has this cypher in white on a red field (fig.), the colour that corresponds to her day of birth, i.e. Sunday in the sih prajam wan system. She bears the royal title Somdet Phra Boromma Raja Channanie, referred to in short as Channanie (fig.). The Princess Mother passed away on 18 July 1995, at the age of 94. She lived part of her life at Doi Tung Royal Villa (fig.) in Chiang Rai province and was a special patron for the various hill tribe people, to whom she is known as Mae Fah Luang, i.e. ‘Royal Mother from the Sky’, a nickname given to her by the hill tribe people due to the fact that she often arrived from the sky in a helicopter. She is remembered for her love of flowers and gardening, and as a result a multitude of public parks and gardens nationwide are named after her. Today, there is a Princess Mother Memorial Park (map - fig.) in Thonburi, near Wat Anongkaram (วัดอนงคาราม), where the princess spent her childhood years; the Princess Mother's 95 Public Park (map - fig.) in Trang; and the Sri Nagarindra Dam (map - fig.) in Kanchanaburi is named after her, as are many parks nationwide. Also spelled and pronounced Sri Nagarin or Sri Nakarin (ศรีนครินทร์). See also Sangwaan Talaphat, and WATCH VIDEO (1), (2) and (3). 回

Sri Phang Nga (ศรีพังงา)

Thai. Name of a Thai National Park, located in Thailand's southern Phang Nga Province, and covering an area of about 246 km². WATCH VIDEO and VIDEO (EN). 回

Sri Phatcharinthra (ศรีพัชรินทรา)

Thai. Another name for Queen Saowapha Phongsri, the Queen Mother of Thailand. 回

Sri Praht (ศรีปราชญ์)

Renowned Thai poet from the 17th century AD. 回

Sri Preukthetsuan (ศรีพฤกเทศวร)

Thai. Name of an annual kind of worship dance from Prasat Hin Wat Sra Kamphaeng Yai in Sri Saket province, performed each year at the end of January. 回

Sri Saket (ศรีสะเกษ)

Thai. Name of a province (map) and its capital city in Isaan, 571 kms northeast of Bangkok. READ ON. 回

Sri Satchanalai (ศรีสัชนาลัย)

1. A present-day amphur in Sukhothai, which bears the old name of Sawankhalok and is home to a Historical Park. This old princely city was a former satellite city from Sukhothai and is located along the Yom River. It was founded in 1250 and in the 13th and 14th centuries served as a residence for the crown prince. The park, which is depicted on a set of four Thai postage stamps issued in 1993 to mark the annual Thai Heritage Conservation Day (fig.), includes the ancient ruins of Wat Naang Phaya (วัดนางพญา - fig.), Wat Chang Lom (fig.), Wat Chedi Jed Thaew (fig.), and the hilltop temple Wat Khao Phanom Phleung (วัดเขาพนมเพลิง - map), which lies at the end of a steep laterite staircase. WATCH VIDEO. 回

2. A national park in Sukhothai, covering an area of about 213 km². See also MAP OF NATIONAL PARKS. 回

Sri Savarindira (ศรีสวรินทิรา)

Thai. Royal title of Queen Sawang Watthana, the Queen Grandmother of Thailand (fig.). 回

Sri Sunthon (ศรีสุนทร)

1. Thai heroin and thao who in 1785, together with her sister Thep Krasatri, prevented a Burmese invasion of Phuket Island. Also known as Muk. See also heroines of Phuket. 回

2. Thai. Name of a district or tambon in Phuket. 回

3. Thai. Name of a DC-6B aircraft, which made its maiden flight on 1 May 1960, to Hong Kong and then on to Taipei and Tokyo. It was the very first airplane ever used in the service of Thai Airways International and as such it appears on the first of a set of four Thai postage stamps issued in 2010 for the occasion of the airline's 50th birthday anniversary (fig.). The name was given by King Bhumiphon. 回

Sri Suriyawongse (ศรีสุริยวงศ์)

Name of a prominent 19th century member of the Bunnag family, who served as Regent upon King Chulalongkorn's ascension to the throne, who at that time was still underage. He was knowledgeable in military affairs and served as chief of the armed forces department under King Mongkut, when he held the position of Samuha Phra Kalahome, one of the two High Chancellor of the Interior Command of old Siam, in charge of Defence (see Krasuang Kalaahome). He was pro-West and pioneered ship building by being the first Siamese to have freight built in the Western style. He was also dedicated in suppressing corruption and those who meant harm to the country. His overall competence made him a powerful man, both public and behind the scene, where he was influential even in decisions that concerned the succession of the throne. He was born as Chuang Bunnag (ช่วง บุนนาค) on Friday 23 December 1808, at the end of the reign of King Rama I. On 23 December 1808, a commemorative stamp with his portrait was issued to mark the bicentennial anniversary of his birthday (fig.). He was Regent from 1868 until 1873 and died ten years later in Ratchaburi. His name is pronounced Si Suriyawong. 回

Sri Suwan (ศรีสุวรรณ)

Thai. The brother of Phra Aphaimanih. He is depicted on the first in a series of eight Thai postage stamps issued in 2009 to publicize the story of Phra Aphaimanih as a major literary work of the Rattanakosin Era (fig.). 回

Sri Thanonchai (ศรีธนญชัย)

Thai.  Name of a Thai-Laotian folk tale of the Lan Chang era which is also known as Chiang Miang. The folk tale is about a trickster called Sri Thanonchai, who can talk his way out of any situation, and who is good at twisting words and making people believe him. He persistently claims to be innocent and to do exactly what people tell him to do. The story is set during the Ayutthaya Period and describes the intellectual rivalry between this antihero and others, especially Jessada, i.e. the King of Ayutthaya. In that time, peasants struggled under draconian laws and authoritarian government, which Sri Thanonchai time and again subverted using his tricks, which were occasionally sinister or sadistic in nature, and most often through word play or interpreting orders too literally, e.g. when told to tie up his master's cattle, he hangs them from a tree. Eventually, Sri Thanonchai schemes his way into the royal court, where he frequently offends the monarch, yet remains there until his demise. The king several times ordered his execution, but Sri Thanonchai always escapes, either by deceiving his executioners or proving his innocence in court by demonstrating that he never told an untruth, yet was merely following orders. Despite many outrages, the king always pardons Sri Thanonchai, in part in acknowledgment, because no one could outsmart him, and partly in recognition of his service, as many of Sri Thanonchai's tricks also humiliated the enemies of Ayutthaya by turning their pride or greed against them, e.g. when a Burmese bull tamer challenged the inhabitants of Ayutthaya to a bullfight with his unbeatable bovine, Sri Thanonchai accepted the challenge and came to the fight with a calf, which the bull refused to fight, thus forfeiting the match when the bull left the ring. 回

Srivijaya

A Mahayana Buddhist empire that from the 7th to 13th centuries AD stretched from Sumatra to the Indonesian archipelago and the Malaysian peninsula, with parts of the South of present-day Thailand, including Chaiya (fig.) which, as a seaport, played an important role in the trade between the Thai-Malaysian peninsula, India and China. The scale of this empire as well as its capital are still disputed, though it is generally believed that this was Palembang in Sumatra. Also a form of art and sometimes spelled Shrivijaya, and in Thai Sri Wichai. 回

Sri Wichai (ศรีวิชัย)

1. Thai. Name of a Kruh Bah, i.e. a venerated monk, who lived in the first half of the 20th century AD, i.e. born on 11 June 1877 and passed away on 10 February 1938. He was the former abbot (fig.) of Wat Bahn Pahng (วัดบ้านปาง) in Lamphun, who in 1935 led his followers to pave a walkway up to Wat Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai, which later became the first motor road. He revised the Lan Na-Thai version of the Tripitaka, and built many temples in his lifetime. Hence, he is recognized as Lan Na's Great Teacher or Kruh Bah, and his monument now stands at the entrance to Wat Doi Suthep (fig.). A monument, consisting of a 21 metre tall statue of Kruh Bah Sri Wichai, is located at the gateway to Lamphun, along the Lamphun-Chiang Mai Highway, adjacent to Wat Doi Ti (วัดดอยติ - map - fig.). See POSTAGE STAMP (1) and (2), as well as TRAVEL PICTURES (1) and (2). 回

2. Thai name for Srivijaya. 回

3. Thai. Former name of the amphur Nakhon Chai Sri (นครชัยศรี), a district in Nakhon Pathom. It is usually referred to in full as Nakhon Sri Wichai and is related to the history of Saam Phraan (fig.). 回

staghorn

Popular name of a parasitic plant that grows on trees in the rainforest and which shape resembles a stag's antler or horn. Some of the species of fern may grow to up to 1.8 meters tall and may then collapse under its own weight. Also used in gardens where it grows to no more than half its natural size. There are several species worldwide, and the botanical names of those endemic to Thailand include Platycerium holtthumii, Platycerium wallichii, and Platycerium coronarium, of which the latter is one of the two species of staghorn native to the Philippines, the other genus being Platycerium grande, while Platycerium superbum and Platycerium bifurcatum are commonly cultivated as ornamental plants. 回

stambha (स्तम्भ)

Term from Sanskrit to indicate a free standing column. 回

standing Buddha

One of the four iryapatha (fig.), the different positions of the body, e.g. walking (fig.), standing, seated (fig.), and reclining (fig.), in which the Buddha can be portrayed according to recognized iconography. 回

St. Andrew's Cross Spider

See Saint Andrew's Cross Spider. 回

star anis

See pooy kak. 回

starfish

See pla dao. 回

Starfish Sansevieria

See Starfish Snakeplant. 回

Starfish Snakeplant

Common name for a drought-tolerant succulent with thick, cylindrical, slightly curving, spike-like leaves. READ ON. 回

Star Flower Tree

Common name of a medium-sized for an ornamental evergreen tree, with a height of up to 25 meters. READ ON. 回

star fruit

Greenish yellow, edible fruit of the Averrhoa carambola, a tree with a height of up to twelve meters. The tree is native to Indonesia, India and Sri Lanka, as well as the Philippines, where it is known as either balimbing or saranate, depending on the sourness of the fruits. The tree and its fruit are popular throughout Southeast Asia, the South Pacific and parts of East Asia. The tree produces fruit almost the whole year round (fig.). Its attractive flowers are pinkish with white edges and a purple centre (fig.). The fruit, as well as the tree, are in English also called Carambola. In Thai ma feuang. 回

star gooseberry

See mayom. 回

Star Pine

Common name for a pine tree referred to in Thai as ton son chat. 回

State Railway of Thailand

Name of the state-owned rail operator in Thailand, which was founded in 1890 as the Royal State Railways of Siam. READ ON. 回

stele

Upright, usually flat stone panel with an inscription (fig.), the earliest method used to record historical events. In China, important and glorious events were usually recorded on jade tablets. Sometimes steles are used as a tomb slab. Also written stèle. In Thai sila jahreuk. 回

Steppe Eagle

Common name for a bird of prey, with the scientific designation Aquila nipalensis. READ ON. 回

Sthaviravada

Pali for Theravada. 回

stick insect

See malaeng phi. 回

sticky rice

See khao niauw. 回

sticky rice basket

See aeb, kratib or kong khao. 回

Stilt-legged Fly

Common name for a family of flies with long legs and the scientific name Micropezidae. They belong to the order of Diptera, which has many genera and subfamilies, most of them distributed in tropical and subtropical habitats. Their bodies are long and their fore legs are markedly smaller than the other pairs. They usually have darkened wings, though some species have reduced wings, whilst others are entirely wingless and resemble ants, both in behaviour and form, raising their frontlegs up so that they resemble ant antennae. Yet some species mimic wasps and are especially similar in appearance to some ichneumonid wasps, which due to the extreme lengthening and curving of the abdomen are also known as scorpion wasps. In Thai Stilt-legged Flies are called malaeng wan klaay mot, meaning ‘ant-like fly’. 回

Stingless Bee

See channarohng. 回

Stink Bug

See Asian Stink Bug. 回

St. Joseph Church

Name of a more than 300 year old Roman Catholic church in Ayutthaya, the very first Catholic establishment ever in the Kingdom of Siam. READ ON. 回

Stonechat

Common designation for an extended species of flycatcher, with the broad scientific name Saxicola torquata. However, the subspecies that occurs in southern Asia and Southeast Asia particularly, is known as Saxicola maura, which is commonly referred to as Siberian Stonechat or Asian Stonechat. The male in breeding plumage has a black head and upperparts, a noticeable white semi-collar, a white scapular patch and rump, and a bright rufous breast. The male in breeding plumage is strikingly similar to the slightly larger White-bellied Minivet. The female has a pale brown to rufous head and upperparts, also a white semi-collar, and a pale, unstreaked pinkish-yellow rump. Females also have a pale supercilium. Males in non-breeding plumage are similar to females, but have a black face and more black on the lower mantle (fig.). The Asian Stonechat is also known as Common Stonechat, Collared Stonechat, Collared Bushchat or Collared Bush Chat, Collared Indian Bush Chat, and Black-headed Chat. In Thailand, where this bird is known as nok yod yah hua dam (นกยอดหญ้าหัวดำ) or ‘black-headed grass-top bird’, it appears as a resident or apparent resident, as well as a non-breeding visitor or winter visitor. See also WILDLIFE PICTURES (1) and (2). 回

Stone Forest

English designation for Shi Lin (石林), a 12 kilometer² large limestone rock garden near Kunming, in China's Yunnan province. It allegedly dates back to the time when the Himalayas (fig.) were formed, and is said to have the same age as Suan Hin Pha Ngam (map - fig.) in Thailand's Loei province. See also Chinese rockery (fig.). See MAP. 回

Stone of Ramkhamhaeng

Name of an ancient sila jahreuk, a stone block with an epigraph, allegedly written by King Ramkhamhaeng (fig.) and discovered in Sukhothai in the first half of the 19th century. Although its origin has been disputed, it has been held as a primary source for information on the history of Sukhothai.  A famous section from the inscription reads: ‘This land of Sukhothai is thriving. There is fish in the waters and rice in the fields. The king does not collect taxes from his subjects; whoever wants to trade (...), let him trade. This Sukhothai is good, the faces of the people are shining bright. The king has hung a bell in the opening of the gate; if any commoner has a grievance which sickens his belly and grips his heart, he goes and strike the bell: King Ramkhamhaeng will question the man, examine the case and decide justly for him...’. This led to the believe that the early Siamese rulers were goodhearted and just by nature. See also Bell of Ramkhamhaeng (fig.), as well as POSTAGE STAMP and THEMATIC STREET LIGHT, and WATCH VIDEO. 回

Stork-billed Kingfisher

Common name for a very large kingfisher, that can grow up to 41 centimeter in length, depending on the species, and with the scientific names Halcyon capensis and Pelargopsis capensis. It is a tree kingfisher, i.e. a short-tailed, large-headed compact bird with a long pointed bill, and is a widespread −yet sparsely distributed− resident throughout tropical South and Southeast Asia. In Thailand, it is known as nok kra-ten yai thammada, meaning ‘large common kingfisher’. It has a large, bright-red bill with a dark tip, a grey head and head-sides, a buff neck and underparts, a turquoise-greenish back, and a blue tail and wings. Apart from the primaries, which are whitish to pale-buff, the underside of the wings, i.e. the anterior part is buff, and the legs and feet are bright-red. 回

Straight-line Mapwing

Common name for a species of butterfly in the family Nymphalidae and with the scientific designation Cyrestis nivea, which is found in Southeast Asia, and of which there are several subspecies. It has a white to off-white upperside, with black veins that form an intricate pattern of map-like markings, that are somewhat reminiscent of stained glass, similar to the Common Map (fig.), yet —unlike in the latter— these lines are straight. See also Little Mapwing (fig.). Sometimes spelled Straight Line Mapwing. 回

strangler fig

Casual name for a vine that sends its roots down the trunk of its host tree. Once the roots reach the ground and are able to take advantage of added nutrients they will increase in number and begin to fuse together, eventually enclosing its host completely and spreading a large crown above it. The host tree will finally die from lack of light and rot away, leaving the fig standing as a bogus tree with a hollow centre (fig.). The tiny seeds of the fig are spread by animals that eat its fruit and deposit their feces together with the indigestible sticky seeds on the branches of trees. Fig seeds that end up on a tree branch with sufficient light and moisture have the right conditions to take root. Occurs mainly in tropical and subtropical rainforests. Its name often refers specifically to the species Ficus citrifolia and Ficus bengalensis, though the term generally includes all figs that share this unique life cycle. See also banyan tree. 回

Strawberry Finch

See Red Avadavat. 回

Straw Mushroom

See hed faang. 回

Streak-eared Bulbul

Common name of a 17.5 to 19.5 centimeter tall songbird (fig.), with the scientific name Pycnonotus conradi, though previously named Pycnonotus blanfordi, a name now reserved for the Irrawaddy Bulbul (fig.), a similar bird which was previously considered to belong to the same species and referred to as subspecies with the scientific names Pycnonotus blanfordi blanfordi and Pycnonotus blanfordi conradi. The Streak-eared Bulbul belongs to the Pycnonotidae family and is found in mainland Southeast Asia. It is nondescript, has a yellowish vent (fig.), pale eyes and whitish ear-covert streaks (fig.), and differs from the Irrawaddy Bulbul by the olive and yellow colouring. Juveniles are paler, have fainter ear-covert streaks and brown eyes (fig.). In Thai, it is known by the name nok parod suan. See also WILDLIFE PICTURES (1), (2) and (3). 回

Streaked Fantail Warbler

Common name for a small passerine bird, with the scientific designation Cisticola juncidis and also commonly known as Zitting Cisticola. It is brown above, heavily streaked with black markings, and a broad white-tipped tail, while the underparts are whitish. Overall the sexes, as well as the geographical races are very similar, yet adult males have more markings on the back and less streaking on the crown than adult females. Their habitat consists of rice paddies, marshes and −mainly wet− grasslands. The subspecies found in Indochina is Cisticola juncidis tinnabulans. 回

Stream Glory

Common name for a species of damselfly, with the scientific designation Neurobasis chinensis. READ ON. 回

String of Nickels

Common name for an epiphytic climbing plant with the botanical name Dischidia nummularia and also commonly referred to as String of Coins. This succulent plant has small, somewhat rounded and bulbous, opposite leaves. In the wild, it usually grows on the trunks of trees, and occurs in South Asia, southern East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australasia. It is also a popular, easy-to-grow houseplant. In Thai, it is known as kled mangkon (เกล็ดมังกร), a designation reminiscent of the Dragon Scales Fern, a tropical epiphytic fern with the botanical name Pyrrosia piloselloides (fig.) and known in Thai as kled nagaraat (เกล็ดนาคราช), i.e. ‘Scales of the Naga-king’. 回

Striped Albatross

Common name for a species of butterfly in the family Pieridae and with the scientific designation Appias libythea olferna. READ ON. 回

Striped Blue Crow

Common name for a species of butterfly in the family Nymphalidae and with the scientific designation Euploea mulciber. READ ON. 回

Striped Jumper

Common name for a species of Jumping Spider, with the scientific designation Epocilla calcarata. READ ON. 回

Striped Narrow-headed Soft-shell Turtle

See taphaab. 回

Striped Red Mullet

Common name for a species of goatfish in the family Mullidae, with the scientific terms Mullus surmuletus and Mullus fuscatus. READ ON. 回

Striped Water Snake

See Rainbow Water Snake. 回

Stripe-nosed Halfbeak

Common name for a species of fish with the scientific name Zenarchopterus buffonis, and that belongs to the family Hemiramphidae. It grows up to 23 cm in length and inhabits the surface levels of brackish water, such as river estuaries and mangrove, as well as coastal waters throughout much of Southeast Asia and the western Pacific. It lives in shoals and is usually found swimming just below the water's surface, where it feeds on terrestrial insects. Its elongate needle-like body may be used as a compass to determine the current, as the majority of fish in a shoal generally point in the direction of the prevailing current. The name halfbeak derives from the fact that the lower jaw is long and spear-like, and the upper jaw somewhat shorter, an arrangement that allows these fish to easily feed on floating debris, especially fallen insects. There is a distinctive black line running along the centre of the upper jaw, and a pale spot on the tip of the lower jaw that seems to glow in the water, reminiscent of a fluorescent, yellowish-green, felt-tipped marker. This spot may be effective in attracting insects, its main source of food. Its flanks are silvery with a dark horizontal stripe, and the dorsal surface olive-brown. This fish is not a commercially fished. Also known as Buffon's River-garfish and in Thai called pla krathung hew haang tat (ปลากระทุงเหวหางตัด), which translates as ‘cut-tail garfish’ and refers to its truncated tail. 回

Stripe-throated Bulbul

Common name of a songbird, with the scientific name Pycnonotus finlaysoni. It belongs to the Pycnonotidae family and is found in mainland Southeast Asia (fig.), as well as southern China. It has greyish-olive upperparts, with a yellowish shine on the wings, whilst its underparts are grey, apart from the belly, which is whitish, and the vent which is yellow. It has yellow stripes on its throat and fore-crown, black lores, and its bill and legs are dark grey (fig.). In Thai, it is known as nok parod kho laai. 回

stucco

A kind of plaster used in architectural decorations, sculpture, and as mortar between building blocks. Building 2 of the College of Engineering at the Chulalongkorn University has several stuccos by Silpa Bhirasri, reflecting the working and engineering equipment (fig.), while the General Post Office in Bangkok (fig.) has several stuccos of Thai postage stamps, including the First Issue (fig.); a stucco stamp depicting Rama I issued to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the  Chakri  Dynasty  the Chakri Dynasty (fig.); a Thai postage stamp of Rama V, with a face value of 1 At (fig.), of 2 At (fig.), and one with a face value of 1 Baht or 1 Tical (fig.); as well as a stamp of Rama VI, with a face value of 3 Baht (fig.). 回

Stump-tailed Macaque

See ling sen. 回

stupa (स्तूप)

Sanskrit. ‘Mound’ or ‘burial hill’. Term used in India to indicate a mound structure housing relics of the historical Buddha or revered monks. Sometimes it may be used to contain sacred images or other objects. In Thai named chedi. 回

suan (สวน)

Thai for ‘park’ or ‘garden’. WATCH VIDEO. 回

Suan Chalong Sirirat Sombat (สวนฉลองสิริราชสมบัติ)

Thai. Name of a public park, located on a stretch between Maruphong (มรุพงษ์) Road and the west bank of the Pakong River, in the northeastern part of the city of Chachengsao. Among its attractions is a Buddhist monument, that consists of a dhammachakka with two deer (fig.), enclosed by four small obelisks with bas-reliefs of fish and lotuses. The park is named after the anniversary celebrations of the enthronement of King Rama IX. Also pronounced Suan Chalong Siriratchasombat. See MAP. 回

Suan Hin Pha Ngam (สวนหินผางาม)

Thai. ‘Beautiful Cliff Rock Garden’. A limestone garden in the amphur Nong Hin, in Loei province (fig.), of which the hills and cliffs were formed by the erosion of sedimentary rock, and the movement and crumpling of the earth's crust as continental plates came together. This natural attraction covers an area of about 3,600 acres and was once covered by sea. It allegedly dates back to the time when the Himalayas (fig.) were formed, and is said to have the same age as the Stone Forest (map - fig.) in Kunming, China. See MAP and WATCH VIDEO (1), (2) and (3). 回

suan kuat kaew (สวนขวดแก้ว)

Thai for ‘terrarium’, a miniature, self-contained ecosystem created within a transparent container, typically made of glass or plastic. It typically contains soil, plants, and other natural elements like moss, small stones, or wood pieces. Terrariums can be open or closed. Open terrariums allow air circulation and are suited for succulents and cacti, which prefer drier conditions. Closed or sealed terrariums, which are sealed with a lid, maintain a humid environment and are ideal for moisture-loving plants such as ferns and mosses. Terrariums are popular for their aesthetic appeal and low-maintenance requirements, making them great decorative pieces for homes or  offices. They offer a unique way to bring a touch of nature indoors and can serve as a small-scale representation of a forest or jungle environment. With proper care, terrariums can thrive for long periods, requiring minimal watering and maintenance. Sealed terrariums with miniature moss gardens are today increasingly found for sale on markets and in shopping malls throughout Thailand. WATCH VIDEO. 回

Suan Kulaab (สวนกุหลาบ)

Thai. ‘Rose Garden’. Name of a male-only college in Bangkok's Phra Nakhon district, which was founded in 1882 by King Rama V and named after its predecessor, i.e. a private school for the offspring of this monarch who fathered 97 children, and which was located in the area of a rose garden in the Grand Palace. Today, it is the oldest public secondary school in Thailand but it was initially established as a peer's school to educate the children of the royal household and other nobility. It is built in neo-classical European style and with a length of 198.35 meters, it has the longest school building in the nation. Many prominent politicians, attorneys, judges, scholars, and businessmen have formerly attended Suan Kulaab as a mathayom student, including several of the country's prime ministers. In 1999, the long building was elected Outstanding Preservation Building by the Association of Siamese Architects, an organization under the Royal Patronage, and in 2011 it featured on a Thai postage stamp, issued to commemorate the centenary of its construction in 1911 (fig.). In full, the school is named Suan Kulaab Withayahlay, which may also be transcribed Suankularb Wittayalai (สวนกุหลาบวิทยาลัย). Compare the length of its facade with that of the Thawornwatthu Building at 180 meter (fig.) and of the Bang Seu Grand Station (fig.) with a stunning 596.6 meter length. See MAP. 回

Suan Loi Fah Chao Phraya (สวนลอยฟ้าเจ้าพระยา)

Thai.  ‘Chao Phraya Sky Floating Park’. Name of the Chao Phraya Sky Park, an elevated garden on an abandoned rail bridge over the Chao Phraya River (fig.), which is popularly referred to as the Garden Bridge (fig.). 回

Suan Luang Phra Ram Kao (สวนหลวงพระรามเก้า)

Thai.  ‘King Rama IX Royal Park’. Name of a 500 rai public park situated off Sri Nakharin Road in eastern Bangkok. It was built in 1987 to commemorate the 60th birthday of king Bhumipon Adunyadet and is by locals usually referred to by its abbreviation Suan Luang Roh Kao (สวนหลวง ร. ๙). It has a well-maintained garden and a lake with a chai pattana aerator (fig.), as well as a sculpture of it (map - fig.), which represents an invention ascribed to King Bhumipon and which is used to transfer oxygen to bodies of still water. Landmark of the park is a round building with a golden spire, that serves as a gallery in commemoration of the life of the king and includes photos, paintings, and information about royal projects. The rather dated building also appears on one side of a rare one baht golden coin issued in 1992 (fig.) and of which only 1,000 were minted. There is also a Chinese Garden, in Thai called Suan Jihn (map - fig.), and a Thai pavilion called Phlabphlah Yot (map - fig.), built in a pond with water lilies. See MAP. 回

Suan Lumphini (สวนลุมพินี)

Thai. City park in Bangkok named after Lumbini, the birthplace of the historical Buddha. READ ON. 回

Suan Mai Thai Ban Pho Liang Meun (สวนไม้ไทยบ้านพ่อเลี้ยงหมื่น)

Thai. ‘Thai Wood Garden [at] Stepfather Meun's House’. Name of a circa 150 rai woodland in Lamphun that features rare plants and trees, flowers from Thai literature, and a large collection of terracotta art. It consists mostly of edifices and sculptures related to Thai and Hindu religion and mythology, as well as of didactic statuettes depicting yogi (fig.) in various yoga poses. In English, the attraction is known as The Terracotta Garden at Lamphun and besides some large lotus ponds, there is also a small waterfall  that flows from a statue of Umamahesvara, i.e. the Hindu god Shiva together with his consort Uma (fig.). At the base of it, in the water, is a statue of Shiva's mount, the bull Nandi, similar to those placed in the Nandi mandapa (fig.). WATCH VIDEO (1) and (2). 回

Suan Mokkha Phalarahm (สวนโมกขพลาราม)

Thai. ‘Garden of Release and Delightful Strength’. Name for a meditation centre, established in 1932 by Buddhadasa Bhikku and located in a forest in Chaiya district of Surat Thani province. The name is a compound name composed of mokkha, which derives of the term moksha and translates as ‘liberation’ or ‘release’; phala (พละ), which means ‘strength’ or ‘power’, and araam, which can be translated as ‘delight’ or ‘pleasure’. The forest temple has its main shrine at the top of Suan Rukkhachaht Khao Phutthong. See also POSTAGE STAMPS. 回

Suan Nok Thai Seuksah (สวนนกไทยศึกษา)

Thai. ‘Thai Bird Teaching Garden’. A bird conservation centre in the city centre of Phitsanulok, consisting of a garden with large bird cages, complete with displays of Thai and scientific names and characteristics of many kinds of bird, especially those that occur in Thailand, and which display both commonly found, as well as rare or endangered bird species. In English, it calls itself Garden Birds of Thailand, a rather misleading name, as the conservation centre in fact holds many species other than garden birds. Perhaps the name Garden with Birds of Thailand, would be more appropriate. See MAP. 回

Suan Nong Nooch Pattaya (สวนนงนุชพัทยา)

Thai. ‘Pattaya Nong Nooch Garden’. The official name in Thai for a 500 acres tropical garden near Pattaya, which in English is usually referred to as Nong Nooch Botanical Garden, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, or simply Nong Nooch Garden. 回

suan ok (ဆွမ်းအုပ်)

Burmese pronunciation for hsun ok, i.e. the conical, usually cone-shaped, tray-like food containers with a stand, which used for offering food, especially to Buddhist monks. In Thailand, similar food containers are referred to as tiab. 回

Suan Pah Chana Sakon (สวนป่าชนะสกล)

Thai. ‘Total Victory Forest Garden’. A hillside garden with large statues of figures from Buddhism and Hinduism, especially Hindu deities, but also from Thai mythology. The garden is situated near the Isaan village Ban Somboon, in the tambon Sahmtom of the amphur Phu Reua, in Loei province. Among the images is a large statue of a multi-headed Ganesha; the goddess Lakshmi or Padma; a multi-headed naga; the monkey-warrior Hanuman; Mahamayuri, i.e. the Great Peacock, trampling on a cobra; the sacred swan Hamsa, etc. In English it is also referred to as Chana Sakol Forest Park. See MAP. 回

Suan Pakkad Palace

Former residence of Chumphotphong Boriphat (จุมภฏพงษ์บริพัตร), Prince of Nakhon Sawan, son of Field Marshal Boriphat Sukhumphan (fig.) and a grandson to King Rama V, and who was one of Thailand's leading art collectors. Suan Pakkad means ‘cabbage garden’ and refers to what the land was before it became the royal residence. The palace consists of five traditional Thai houses with a beautifully kept garden. Today it is a museum and houses a large collection of Asian art and antiques, and exhibits -amongst others- a collection of sea shells, mineral crystals and pottery from Ban Chiang. In Thai it is known as Wang Suan Pakkad (วังสวนผักกาด). See MAP. 回

Suan Palm Farm Nok (สวนปาล์มฟาร์มน)

Thai name for the Parrot and Palm Garden (fig.) in Chachengsao. 回

suanpan (算盘)

Chinese for abacus. See also Chinese abacus. 回

Suan Phan Phai (สวนพันธุ์ไผ่)

Thai. ‘Bamboo reproduction garden’. Name of a  300 rai area with a wide collection of bamboo species for research and breeding. It is located in the tambon Noen Hom (เนินหอม) of Prachinburi province and supervised by the Department of Corrections which has allocated an area as a training centre to educate inmates on how to grow and cut bamboo, and manufacture bamboo furniture. In English usually referred to as Bamboo Garden. 回

Suan Phuphan Rat (สวนผู้พันรัตน์)

Thai. ‘Colonel Rat Garden’. Name of an orchard in Lopburi that specializes in the growing of unusual fruits and which allegedly has around a hundred different varieties of rare fruits in it, including agricultural curiosities such as manao fak thong, gluay thep phanom, etc. The rare fruit garden project is an initiative of the local hobby farmer Lt. Colonel Phairat Pahlawat (พันโท ไพรัตน์ ปาลวัฒน์). Whereas the word phuphan (ผู้พัน) in the name of the garden refers to his military rank, Rat (short for Phairat), is his nickname and means ‘gem’ or ‘jewel’. 回

Suan Romanih Naht (สวนรมณีนาถ)

Thai. Literally the name could be translated as ‘garden of the joyful woman who is dependable’. The name, however, was coined by Queen Sirikit and the term naht (นาถ) at the end was taken from the end of a title used to refer to the Queen, i.e. Phra Boromma Rajanih Naht (พระบรมราชินีนาถ), and the park's name is hence understood to mean the ‘Garden that pleased the Queen’. It is the name of a public park in Bangkok, located on Mahachai Road, on the grounds of a former maximum security prison. In 1991, the government decided to demolish the old prison and turn the area into a 29 rai, 3 ngan and 72 square wah large park, to commemorate the occasion of Queen Sirikit's 60th Birthday Anniversary in 1992. The park was officially opened on 17 August 1999, in the presence of Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn. One of its attractions today is the Corrections Museum (fig.), which is partly built in what remains of the former prison. Besides a fitness area, the park also features a basketball court, a jogging lane, and a skateboard area. Also transcribed Romannih Naht or Romanee Naat Park. See MAP and WATCH VIDEO. 回

suan rukkhachaht (สวนรุกขชาติ)

Thai name for ‘arboretum’. 回

Suan Sat Chiang Mai (สวนสัตว์เชียงใหม่)

Thai. ‘Chiang Mai animal garden’. Name for the Chiang Mai Zoo. 回

Suan Sat Dusit (สวนสัตว์ดุสิต)

Thai. ‘Dusit animal garden’. Official name for Bangkok's Dusit Zoo. 回

Suan Sat Peut Khao Khiao (สวนสัตว์เปิดเขาเขียว)

Thai. ‘Khao Khiao open animal garden’. Thai name for the Khao Khiao Open Zoo (fig.) in Chonburi province. 回

Suan Sat Phatah (สวนสัตว์พาต้า)

Thai. ‘Pata animal garden’. Name for the Pata Zoo. 回

Suan Suay Samakhom Tae Chew (สวนสวยสมาคมแต้จิ๋ว)

Thai. ‘Beautiful Park of the Tae Chew Community’. See Susahn Tae Chew. 回

Suan Khaeb Thih Soot Khong Prathet Thai (ส่วนแคบที่สุดของประเทศไทย)

Thai name for the ‘Narrowest Part of Thailand’. 回

suay (สวย)

1. Thai. ‘Beautiful’, ‘pretty’, ‘nice’, ‘lovely’, ‘nifty’, ‘fair’, ‘legible’, ‘picturesque’, ‘pleasant’, ‘goodly’, and ‘winsome’. Term used to express ones appreciation for beauty, with regards, to girls, women, and objects or places pleasing to the eye in general; for boys and men the term loh (ลออ) or hloh (หล่อ), i.e. ‘handsome’, is used instead. READ ON. 回

2. ‘Not wet’. Thai term used for well-cooked rice, that is not wet, nor raw, nor overcooked. READ ON. 回

suay (ส่วย)

1. Thai. ‘Levy’. A synonym for ratchupakaan (รัชชูปการ), i.e. ‘capitation’ or ‘poll tax’, and refers to a tax that started in the reign of King Rama VI and is levied as a fixed sum on every male citizen collected from able-bodied men aged between 18 and 60 years, who have not served in the military or who have received an individual exemption, and without reference to personal income or resources. 回

2. Thai. ‘Tribute’. Items collected from the native population and that were sent to the royal family according to the ancient method of collecting taxes, i.e. the goods the state levied from the cities under its rule, as well as a tribute from a vassal. 回

3. Thai. ‘Bribe’. In colloquial speech, the term used for so-called tea money, i.e. money given to government officials in exchange for certain benefits in a corrupt way. 回

4. Thai. Name of an ethnic minority group of people that lives in Isaan, i.e. the northeastern region of Thailand, whose members speak a language that belongs to the Mon-Khmer family. 回

suay (ส้วย)

1. Thai. ‘Sharp-angled’. Term for objects or things that have the appearance of a sharp angle. 回

2. Thai term for ‘to cut’, ‘to slice’, ‘to dissect’. 回

suban (สุบรรณ)

Thai-Sanskrit. A designation for the Garuda which is derived from the composed words su (สุ) and pron (ปรณ), which means ‘person with beautiful wings’. 回

Subankhiri (สุบรรณคีรี)

Thai.  Literally ‘Mountain Suban’, which translates as ‘Mountain Garuda’. However, he is usually referred to as Thao Subankhiri and as such also called ‘Lord of the Mountains’. Name of a yak character who is depicted with a green complexion and bulging tah phlohng, i.e. ‘wide open eyes’. He wears a chadah-style crown with several faces, similar to that of Totsakan (fig.), making the two hard to distinct. His weapon is a gada, i.e. a club or mace. Like many other giant characters, he has upright tusk-like fangs in the corners of his mouth. At Wat Thipsukhontharam (fig.) in Kanchanaburi, he is erected in pair with Waiyawet (fig.), guarding Phra Phutta Mettaprachathai (fig.). See MAP. 回

Subhadra (सुभद्रा)

Sanskrit. One of the princesses to which Arjuna married, the sister of Krishna and mother of Abhimanyu. 回

Subhuti

Name of a prominent figure in Buddhism, who was one of the principal disciples of the Gautama Buddha. Known for his profound understanding and mastery of the concept of Sunyata, i.e. ‘emptiness’ or ‘voidness’. He was born into a wealthy family as a the son of the merchant Sumana and thus the younger brother of Anathapindika, who is known in Thai as Anathabinthika Setthi and would later become the Buddha's chief male patron (fig.). Subhuti is prominently featured in several Mahayana Buddhist sutras, where he engages in dialogues with the Buddha and other disciples. His teachings emphasize the importance of transcending conventional understanding and embracing the profound wisdom of emptiness to attain liberation. However, in Mahayana Buddhism, Subhuti is described as a nephew of Anathapindika, rather than his brother, and he is either affiliated with, or the same person as, the arahat Pindola Bharadvaja, who is also known as Ajita, of whom some claim he is the same person as the future Maitreya Buddha. 回

Subinda (สุปิณฑะ)

Pali-Thai. Name of one of the eighteen arahats, who according to legend, was the last disciple to meet the Buddha before his death. Afterwards, he always carried a specially made, small pagoda, to remind him of the Buddha's earthly presence, as in Buddhism the pagoda is a container to house relics of the Buddha. He is also known by the Sanskrit name Nandimitra which may be translated as ‘Friend of Joy’ or ‘Friend of Nandi’, Nonthimit (นนทีมิตร) in Thai, but is in some texts translated as the ‘Sweet One’. By this name he is the narrator of a record of the perpetuity of the dhamma, called the Nandimitravadana (नन्दिमित्रावदान), literally the ‘Sayings of Nandimitra’, but usually referred to as ‘A Record of the Perpetuity of the Dhamma’. However, the name Nandimitra is found also used for the Dragon Subduing Arhat (fig.), who is also referred to as Nantimitolo. He is sometimes depicted as a venerable sage holding a scroll or a sacred book in one hand, whilst snapping the fingers of the other. It is believed that this gesture symbolizes sudden Enlightenment, indicating the rapidity with which he attained spiritual insight, though some think it may also signify his understanding of the impermanence of things. In paintings he is occasionally portrayed next to an alms bowl and an incense burner or seated in meditation. In Chinese he is known as the luohan Tuo Ta (托塔), literally ‘To Hold A Pagoda Up With The Palm’, which in English is referred to as the Raised Pagoda Lohan or the Pagoda Holding Arhat. In Vietnam, he is known as Thac Thap La Han (Thác Tháp La Hán) and may be depicted seated on a Water Buffalo (fig.). In Thai, his name is pronounced Supinta, but he is also known by Thais as Suphathoh (สุพะโท). 回

subinnimit (สุบินนิมิต)

Thai. ‘Visionary dream’. Term that refers to Maha Maya's dream about a white elephant from the Himaphan woods that touched her and announced the future birth of the Buddha. 回

Subramaniam (सुब्रमनियम)

Another name for Phra Kanthakuman or Kanthakumara, son of Devi. 回

Subramanya (सुब्रह्मण्य)

Sanskrit. Another name for Skanda and Kanthakumara, the Hindu god of war and the son of Shiva and Parvati, who is also known as Karttikeya (fig.). Also spelled Subrahmanya. 回

Suchada (सुजात)

Name of a devoted, young, rich and beautiful milkmaid, who offered Siddhartha the last meal before his Enlightenment. The meal, some sweet milk-rice with honey, was offered in a golden bowl when the Buddha-to-be was meditating under a banyan tree. After finishing the meal Siddhartha took the golden bowl and threw it in a river, asking that if he was destined to become a Buddha, to let the bowl float upstream, rather than downstream. The golden bowl astonishingly went upstream, all the while keeping in the middle of the river (fig.), an event known in Pali as patisotagami, which means ‘to go against the current’. After his Enlightenment, Siddhartha began a period of fasting that lasted for seven weeks. During the seventh week, the Buddha meditated under the Rajayatana Tree. On the fiftieth morning, after seven weeks of fasting, two merchants came into his presence. They were called Tapussa and Bhallika. They offered the Buddha rice cakes and honey to break his fast and the Buddha told them some of what he had found in his Enlightenment. These two merchants became the Buddha's first lay followers. Sometimes the bowl of milk-rice offered by Suchada is said to have been the meal that ended Siddharrtha's six years of asceticism. Also transliterated Sujata. 回

Suddhodana (सुद्धोदन, สุทโธทนะ)

1. Pali-Thai. Father (fig.) of the historical Buddha and ruler of the kingdom of the Sakyas, named Kapilavastu, in present-day Nepal. Also known by the names Totsarot and Dasharatha. 回

2. Pali-Thai. Another name for the father of Rama, the main character in the Ramakien, whom is also known as Totsarot and is described as a mythological king of Ayutthaya. 回

Sudhana

1. Pali-Sanskrit name of Shan Cai, a youth from India who was an acolyte of Kuan Yin seeking Enlightenment (fig.). 回

2. Pali name for Suthon or Phra Suthon, a character from the the story Manohra. 回

Sudra (शूद्र)

See Shudra. 回

Sud Sakhon (สุดสาคร)

Another spelling for Sut Saakhon. 回

Sufi (صُوفِيّ)

Arabic. A practitioner of Islamic mysticism; a Muslim mystic. 回

sugar apple

Name for a fruit with the scientific name Annona squamosa, also known as custard apple and in Thai called noi nah. 回

sugarcane

A perennial plant that belongs to the family of grasses and which has the botanical name Saccharum officinarum. Its stem is either green or reddish-brown, and is made up of jointed segments (fig.), called growth rings and root bands. The segments are made up of vascular bundles, that contain an edible sweet sap from which sugar is gained, as well as molasses (a viscous by-product of the refining of sugarcane) and rum, and nowadays also ethanol. The root bands that lie along the stem have buds on them and sugarcane is propagated by planting a section of the stem in soil, after which new cane will grow from the buds. It requires lots of sun and water and hence thrives well in the hot and wet climate of Southeast Asia, where it is commercially produced in many places (fig.). In Thailand (fig.), it is especially cultivated in Kanchanaburi Province, which has some sugar mill factories that press the sweet juice from the plants. It is typically sold on markets and food stalls as a refreshing snack or pressed into a drink. Old wooden sugarcane presses are often found in gardens as a decoration and occasionally they may be seen still in use (fig.). In Hinduism, sugarcane represents refreshing sweetness and thriving growth, and being a popular food for elephants it may also be offered to Ganesha. ‘Sugarcane in the mouth of an elephant’, is a popular Thai proverb meaning ‘a fait accompli’. In Thai ton ohy, and also spelled sugar cane. See also POSTAGE STAMP and WATCH VIDEO. 回

Sugarcane White Grub

See malaeng noon luang. 回

Sugar Palm

Name of an attractive, single-stemmed palm tree, with the scientific name Borassus flabellifer and also known by the common names Asian palmyra palm, Toddy palm (after the sugary sap which is harvested of its inflorescence and fruits - fig.) and Cambodian palm. It has a bare, coconut tree-like trunk and may grow to a height of about 25 to 30 meters. The leaves, which are used for thatching, fans, mats, hats, baskets, umbrellas and as writing material, are circular and fan-like, ribbed and bluish green in colour. These grow on stalks of around 1.5 to 2 meters in length, which develop a canopy of several dozen fronds which may spread 3 meters across. The fruits, called look taan (fig.) in Thai, each measure about 10 to 18 centimeters in diameter, grow in clusters and have an attractive dark chestnut husk, often with a sunburst effect, gradually changing to a yellow-golden colour towards the top. Inside sit three pale-white, translucent, jelly seed sockets, covered with a thin, creamy white skin (fig.). The fruits can be made into sugar, i.e. palm sugar, as well as be eaten fresh. The endocarp is used to make chao taan cheuam. Sugar Palms are long-lived and can become well over a 100 years old. In Thai this tree is called ton taan or ton taan tanoht. 回

Sugriva (सुग्रीव)

Name of a monkey warrior, half-brother of Vali (fig.), the king of the monkeys, as well as an uncle of Hanuman (fig.). After he wrongly assumed that his brother had been killed by a demon, Sugriva usurped Vali's throne. When Vali upon his return found his brother on the throne, he concluded that he had betrayed him, not prepared to listen to any attempts by Sugriva to explain himself. Hence, the brothers became bitter enemies and Sugriva was exiled. After this, Sugriva met Rama and they became allies, and when Sugriva challenged Vali to a fight, Rama emerged from behind a tree and with his bow shot and killed Vali with an arrow. After Vali's death, Sugriva recaptured his kingdom and made Angada, Vali's son, crown prince and second in command. In Thai, he is called Sukrihp. 回

Suicide Tree

Common name for a small to medium-sized tree, with the botanical name Cerbera odollam. READ ON. 回

Sui Ren (燧人)

Chinese. ‘Fire Man’. Name of one of the Si Shi, a group of semi-mythological rulers and culture heroes from the period preceding the Xia Dynasty in ancient China. He is often described as the third of the Three Sovereigns during the Three Sovereigns and the Five Emperors Period. He is also said to be as the discoverer or inventor of fire and in iconography he is regularly depicted with a third eye. As one of the Four Shi, he is known as Sui Ren-shi. Besides meaning ‘fire’, the word sui can also be understood as to ‘create fire’, i.e. to obtain fire by drilling wood, striking flints, from the sun's rays, etc. 回

Sujata (सुजात)

See Suchada. 回

sukh, sukha (सुख, สุข)

Sanskrit-Thai term that can be translated as ‘delight’, ‘comfort’, or ‘happiness’. It is often used in compound names, such as Sukhothai, i.e. ‘Dawn of happiness’, and the word sukha (สุขา), meaning ‘toilet’, derives from it and is as such sometimes jokingly translated ‘happy room’. 回

Sukhavati (सुखावती)

Sanskrit. ‘Place of Great Bliss’, sometimes translated as ‘Paradise’. The term refers to the western heaven of Mahayana Buddhism guarded by Amitabha, one of the five transcendental or dhyani buddhas. In Thai, it is known as Sukhawadih (สุขาวดี) and in Hokkien, a southern Chinese language, as Kek Lok (極樂). As such, it occurs in the names of Daen Sukhawadih, a religious park in Thailand's Phetchaburi province, and in Kek Lok Si (極樂寺), a Buddhist temple in the Malaysian state of Penang. 回

Sukhothai (สุโขทัย)

Thai. ‘Dawn of happiness’. Name of a province (map) and its capital city in North Thailand, 427 kms north of Bangkok. READ ON. 回

Sukhumahn Marasih (สุขุมาล มารศรี)

Thai. Name of the 52nd child of King Mongkut, who besides his daughter was also his concubine, until he died when she was only ten years old. Consequently, she became the wife of the succeeding monarch King Chulalongkorn, her half-brother, with whom she married at the age of 17, and with whom she had a son and a daughter, i.e. Prince Boriphat Sukhumphan (fig.) and Princess Suttha Thipayarat. The Queen's name is sometimes transliterated Sukhumala Marasri. 回

sukiyaki (鋤焼, สุกี้ยากี้)

Japanese-Thai. ‘To roast on a plough’. Name for a soup-like dish with mainly wun sen glass noodles. Originally from Japan, Thailand has developed its own modified version which consists of thinly sliced meat or chicken, fish, seafood or tofu mixed with leafy vegetables, spices and sometimes mushrooms, and bring to a slow boil and let simmer in a shallow iron pot, known as a steamboat. The dish was originally cooked over a suki, that is a plough, hence its name. In modern Japanese, non-Kanji script, it is written スキヤキ. In Thai, it is transcribed in a number of different ways, e.g. สุกียากี, สุกี้ยากี and so forth, and is also called suki nahm, or just suki. 回

Suk Kesaroh (ศุข เกสโร)

Name of a venerated Buddhist monk with the ecclesial title Luang Poo, who was born in 1847 AD, in the reign of King Rama IV. He ordained as a monk in 1869 at Wat Pahk Khlong Makhaam Tao (วัดปากคลองมะขามเฒ่า) in Chainat, where he later in life became the abbot. Luang Poo Suk was revered as having great spiritual power and was the royal teacher of Admiral Krommaluang Chumphon Khet Udomsak, i.e. Aphakon Kiatiwong (fig.). Suk Kesaroh is also known as Phra Kruh Wimonkunahkon (พระครูวิมลคุณากร). He passed away in 1923 AD, aged 76. His name is also spelled Suk Kesaro and Sook Gesaroh. See also POSTAGE STAMP. 回

sukon (สุกร)

Thai for ‘pig’, ‘swine’, or ‘hog’ and a term typically used in relation to the twelfth and last animal sign of the Chinese zodiac. Also transliterated sukorn, sugon or sugorn. 回

Sukrihp (สุครีพ)

Name of a monkey warrior of Rama and the regent of Meuang Kheedkhin in the epos Ramakien. He was the son of the Sun (Phra Ahtit) and Kahn Atchana (กาลอัจนา). He is the half-brother of Bali (Phali, and in Sanskrit called Vali - fig.), whose throne he usurped, and an uncle of Hanuman (fig.). He is depicted as a monkey with red fur and usually wearing a chadah-style headdress with a conical peak (fig.) of which the tip folds backwards. He is also represented on one of the Royal Barges, which is consequently named after him, i.e. Reua Sukrihp Khrong Meuang, and is also depicted holding a sword on the logo of the Directorate of Air Inspection. Besides this, he is also often portrayed while breaking a chattra, a reference to the scene where he was ordered by king Rama to destroy Totsakan's huge royal umbrella, which the latter used to block out the sun in order to put the city of Longka in the dark. Also transcribed Sukhreep and Sukhrip, and in Sanskrit known as Sugriva. In addition, he may also be referred to as Anuchakakat (อนุชากากาศ), which translates to younger brother or anucha (อนุชา) of Kakat/Kaakaat (กากาศ), which is the former name of Bali. See also LIST OF RAMAKIEN CHARACTERS & NAMES. 回

Suktantha (สุกทันต)

Thai. ‘Ripe teeth’. Name of a former Buddhist monk turned reusi, i.e. hermit, who lived in the middle of the 13th century AD, at the beginning of the Siamese kingdom. At that time, he was a great teacher and the top guru of the city of Lavo, i.e. present day Lopburi. As a hermit, he resided in a cave on a mountain called Thammik Banphot (ธรรมิกบรรพต). Among his disciples and students were several later rulers, most notably of the three kings of Lan Na, i.e. Ngam Meuang, Mengrai and Ramkhamhaeng, who met as co-students of this hermit and became lifelong friends (fig.). In literature often referred to as Suktantha-reusi (สุกทันตฤาษี), i.e. the ‘hermit Suktantha’. 回

Suktantha-reusi (สุกทันตฤาษี)

See Suktantha. 回

Sulalihwan (สุลาลีวัน)

Thai. Name of a female character from the story Phra Aphaimanih (fig.). She is the stepdaughter of Nang Laweng, the daughter of the King of Langka (fig.). Also referred to as Nang Sulalihwan and in English also transliterated Sulaleewan. 回

Sulamani (စူဠာမဏိ)

Burmese. ‘Crowning Jewel’ or ‘Small Ruby’. Name of a shrine erected by the Hindu god Indra in his celestial domain Tavatimsa and used as a reliquary, in full referred to as Sulamuni Cetiya, where Sakka enshrined the Buddha's hair. In Thai known as Chulamanie. 回

Sulamani Phaya (စူဠာမဏိဘုရား)

Burmese. Name of a Buddhist pagoda in Bagan, named after Sulamani. READ ON. 回

Sule (ဆူးလေ)

Burmese. Name of an ancient pagoda, which today is located on a roundabout in the centre of downtown Yangon. READ ON. 回

sultan (سلطان)

Arabic. ‘Power’, ‘strength’ or ‘authority’. Title for a Muslim sovereign. 回

Sultan Tit

Common name for a species of songbird, with the scientific name Melanochlora sultanea and known in Thai by the name nok tit sultaan (นกติ๊ดสุลต่าน). It is about 17 centimeters tall and mostly black with a metallic greenish shine, apart from a large yellow crest and a yellow belly. Sexes are similar, but adult females are more brownish and have duller yellow parts, while the chin and throat are a dark glossy olive-green. This bird is depicted on a Thai postage stamp issued in 1975 as part of a set on Thai birds (fig.). 回

Sumana

Name of a wealthy merchant in Savatti during the era of the Gautama Buddha. His son, Anathabinthika Setthi (fig.), was acknowledged as the wealthiest trader in the region and earned recognition as the primary male supporter of the Buddha. His other son, Subhuti, was one of the principal disciples of the Buddha, known for his profound understanding and mastery of the concept of Sunyata, i.e. ‘emptiness’ or ‘voidness’. 回

Sumatran Rhinoceros

Common name of a species of rhinoceros, with the scientific name Dicerorhinus sumatrensis. It is the only still existing species of the genus Dicerorhinus, as well as the the smallest rhinoceros, growing to a shoulder height of up to 145 centimeters, a body length of about two and a half meters, and weight of around 650 kilograms. It has two horns, i.e. a larger nasal horn of up to 25 centimeters, and a smaller horn, which is typically a stub. Its body is usually covered with reddish-brown hair. Sumatran Rhinoceroses inhabit rainforests, swamps and cloud forests, and were once found in India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and China, though they are now critically endangered, with only six substantial populations found in the wild, to be precise: four on the Indonesian island Sumatra, and two in Malaysia, i.e. one on Borneo and one on the Peninsula. In 1973, Thailand issued a series of postage stamps with endangered wild animals, including one with the depiction of Sumatran Rhinoceroses (fig.). In Thai, it is called krasoo. 回

Sumbha (शुम्भ)

Sanskrit. Name of an asura, who first appears in the 5th chapter of the Devi Mahatmyam, together with his brother Nisumbha. The duo sought to conquer the triloka by subjecting themselves to severe penance and purification rituals, in order that no man nor demon could destroy them. They traveled to Pushkar (fig.), where they remained in prayer for ten thousand years, and when the god Brahma saw their penitence, he was pleased and granted them their request. When Chanda and Munda, two lesser asuras in the brothers' service, had encountered the goddess Devi, they were overwhelmed by her beauty and reported this back to Sumbha and Nisumbha. Hence, they were sent out to abduct her, yet were destroyed by Devi. Consequently, the brothers confronted the goddess Devi themselves, but despite their boon, both were slain by her, as the boon had no protection against gods nor goddesses. Sumbha and Nisumbha are sometimes explained to be symbols of arrogance and pride, which is ultimately overcome by the Devi's humility and wisdom. Also transliterated Shumbha and Zumbha. 回

Sum Chaleum Phra Kian (ซุ้มเฉลิมพระเกียรติ)

Thai-rajasap name for an altar-like honorary monument erected for royalty or high-ranking monks (fig.), usually with a large portrait of the person to whom it is dedicated, generally in a decorative golden frame. For royalty, the monument is in the main adorned with a silver and a golden phum dokmai, and sometimes with the Thai national flag and the personal royal flag of the intended member of the royal family. It is typically erected either on the side of the road, as well as at palaces and temples, or near public places of interest. Additionally, it is also erected as an arched gate-like structure over the road (fig.), typically over the main road into and out of a city and then specifically called Sum Chaleum Phra Kian Pratu Meuang (ซุ้มเฉลิมพระเกียรติประตูเมือง), or alternatively on the sides of a pedestrian bridge. The framed portrait is also referred to as krop roop phra boromma chahyahlak (กรอบรูปพระบรมฉายาลักษณ์). See also TRAVEL PICTURES (1), (2) and (3). 回

Sum Chaleum Phra Kian Kanchana Phisek (ซุ้มเฉลิมพระเกียรติกาญจนาภิเษก)

Thai-rajasap name for a monument erected in 1996 AD, in the honour of King Rama IX, to commemorate the Golden Jubilee (Kanchana Phisek) of his reign, i.e. 50 years on the throne. The statue consists of the heads and front legs of four White Elephants, standing back to back and carved from white marble. These are placed on an octagonal base, which is surrounded by marble phum dokmai. The memorial is located at the intersection of Saphaan Phaan Phiphek Leelah (สะพานผ่านพิภพลีลา), i.e. the ‘Bridge which Phiphek Gracefully Crossed’, and Phra Pinklao Road, near the northeastern corner of Sanam Luang. In English, the memorial is referred to as Rama IX Golden Jubilee Monument. See MAP. 回

Sumedha (सुमेध, သုမေဓာ)

Sanskrit-Burmese. A former incarnation of Siddhartha Gautama, at the time of the first of his 27 buddha predecessors, Dipankhara. When Sumedha, who lived the life of a brahman ascetic, met Dipankhara (fig.), he vowed that one day he would be a buddha too. This was consequently confirmed by the omniscient buddha Dipankhara and all his 26 descendants, and thus Sumedha became the 11th of the 27 buddhas who preceded the historical Sakyamuni Buddha. According to legend, he became an ascetic at the age of 9,000 years and attained Enlightenment after having practiced austerities for 8 months. He is said to have lived for 90,000 years. The canonical story of Sumedha is widely celebrated in Myanmar, where he is usually depicted as a Burmese hermit or tapathi (fig.), laying flat on his belly in worship of Dipankhara, often while presenting him with an offering. According to legend, Yashodhara, the later wife of Siddhartha, appears as a girl named Sumidha and meets her future husband for the first time. As the story goes, Sumedha spotted Sumidha holding 8 lotuses (fig.) and offered to buy one of her flowers, to give it as offering to Dipankhara (fig.). However, recognizing him as a future buddha, the girl pledged to give him 5 of her lotuses if he would promise that they would become husband and wife in all their future existences, i.e. chaht. 回

Sumeru (สุเมรุ)

Thai. Another word for Meru. 回

Sumet (สุเมธ)

Thai-rajasap. ‘Wise man’, i.e. anyone who possesses wisdom, a philosopher. The term is often used for the Buddha and may appear in the name of certain Buddha images, such as in Somdet Phra Sakayamuni Sri Sumet Bophit, Thailand's largest reclining Buddha image. See also Saadsada, Phra Samasam, Mahamuni and Mahalabamuni. 回

Sumidha (सुमिध)

Sanskrit. Name of Yashodhara, the wife of Siddhartha Gautama, in a previous incarnation, when she met Siddhartha, i.e. her future husband, for the first time in his earlier incarnation of Sumedha (fig.), a brahman ascetic, when the latter was about to meet the buddha Dipankhara (fig.), i.e. the first of 24 buddha predecessors, and offer him some flowers. Yet, as he tried to buy flowers as an offering, he found out that the king had already bought all the flowers for his own offering. Spotting Sumidha holding 8 lotuses, he offered to buy one of her flowers. However, recognizing him as a future buddha, she pledged to give him 5 of her lotuses if he would promise her that they would become husband and wife in all their future existences or chaht (fig.). She is also known as Bhadra. 回

Sum Pratu Watthanatham Thai-Jihn (ซุ้มประตูวัฒนธรรมไทย-จีน)

See Chinatown Gate. 回

sumwimaan (ซุ้มวิมาน)

Thai compound term that consists of the word sum (ซุ้ม), i.e. a slightly convex or arched shaped facade, often with multiple arches and pinnacles, and typically erected as an altar-like honorary monument for royalty, and the word wimaan (วิมาน), i.e. the abode of a god or the dwelling place of a deity. It is frequently used in iconography as an emblem, e.g. in the royal seal of Phra Phutta Leut La, i.e. King Rama II (fig.); as part of the provincial coat of arms of Ayutthaya (fig.); on the emblem for the bicentenary of Rattanakosin (fig.); etc. 回

sunak (สุนัข)

Thai. The official word for ‘dog’ and ‘puppy’, derived from the Sanskrit term shunaka (शुनक), meaning ‘dog’. Although dogs are generally loved by most Thais (fig.), there are also many homeless dogs and people are occasionally attacked by dogs that turn wild, with some reports of small children having succumbed to their injuries, usually from multiple bites. Thailand has an estimated 10 million stray dogs, of which around 500,000 roam the streets of Bangkok. Stray dogs often live in packs and many have skin diseases (fig.) and open wounds from fighting, while some may also be rabid. Some temples and good-hearted people look after stray dogs (fig.) and also the king is a major supporter by urging  his subjects to treat stray dogs well. King Bhumipon's favourite pet is his dog called Thongdaeng (fig.), which means Copper in English. People in Bangkok usually keep to small dog breeds for pets, as these are more easy to keep indoors, which is ideal for those living in flats, and many will have a pedigree. Thailand also has its own breed known as the Siamese Dog or Thai Ridgeback Dog (fig.), of which exist several varieties (fig.). Another breed unique to Thailand is the Bang Kaew dog (บางแก้ว), named after the village from which it originated, i.e. Ban Bang Kaew, in the Amphur Bang Rakam in Phitsanulok, where the abbot of the local temple kept a number of dogs, that allegedly mated with a wolf. Although fierce, this breed is famed for its calmness and loyalty. Some people in Thailand eat dog meat (fig.), such as the Akha in Northern Thailand and the Soh in Sakon Nakhon, which has a dog market selling cooked dog, though the practice is more common in China (fig.), especially in the south (fig.), and in northern Vietnam (fig.). In popular speech dogs are called mah and occasionally suwaan (สุวาน), a word derived from Pali is used. The dog (gou) is the eleventh animal in the Chinese zodiac (fig.) and those born in the Year of the Dog are said to love travel, to be eloquent and to possess good speaking abilities. They belong to the element tu (土), that represents earth and correspondents to the colour yellow and the celestial stems wu (戊) and ji (己). The dog features on many a Thai postage stamp, including the Zodiac Year of the Dog Postage Stamp issued in 2006 (fig.) and the Songkraan Day Postage Stamp issued in 1994 (fig.). See more POSTAGE STAMPS, TRAVEL PICTURES (1) and (2), and WATCH VIDEO (1) and (2). 回

Sunandha Kumariratana (สุนันทากุมารีรัตน์)

Thai. A daughter of King Mongkut and Princess Consort Piam, and later became one of four queens of King Chulalongkorn, of whom she was a half-sister. Besides this, she was also was a full sister to two of the other queen consorts of Rama V, i.e. Queen Sawang Watthana and Queen Saowapha Phongsri. She was born on 10 November 1860 in Bangkok and died at the untimely age of 19, on 31 May 1880, when her boat (fig.) capsized while on the way to the Royal Summer Palace in Bang Pa-in, an accident that killed also her daughter Princess Kannaphon Phetcharat (fig.) and an unborn son. Despite the presence of many onlookers, no one dare come to her rescue, as the law forbade commoners to touch any royal, even in order to save their lives. She is portrayed on one of a rare set of unmarked postage stamps of the Royal Family issued in circa 1893 (fig.). The royal compound at Bang Pa-in has an obelisk-shaped memorial commemorating Queen Sunandha Kumariratana and her daughter (map - fig.). 回

Sun and Moon fans

Name for a kind of Chinese-Taoist fans, typically carried along with statues of deities in processions or placed at their altars in pairs (fig.) and adorned with intricate Chinese symbols. Characteristically, one fan displays the Chinese character for ‘Sun’, while the other bears the character for ‘Moon’. In Buddhist iconography, the combination of these two characters, ri (日) for ‘sun’ and yue (月) for ‘moon’, forms the character ming (明), which means ‘bright’, ‘clear’, or ‘to understand’, a symbol for Enlightenment. Additionally, some fans depict images with deeper meanings, such as a dragon representing male power, and a phoenix symbolizing the female counterpart—both embodying the principles of yin-yang. In Thai, these fans are known as pad suriya-chandra (พัดสุริยัน จันทรา), and in Chinese as ri yue shan (日月扇). 回

Sun Bin (孙膑)

Chinese. ‘Peach Blossom’, a military strategist, who lived during the Warring States Period and after his death was deified. READ ON. 回

sundial

See naligah daed. 回

sunflower

See thaan tawan. 回

Sunih Sawanprathihp (สุณี สุวรรณประทีป)

See Luang Sakdi Sanyawut. 回

Sunlaka Sathaan (ศุลกสถาน)

Thai. Literally ‘sanctuary’, as in harbour, but also ‘customs facilities’. Thai name used for the old Customs House located along the lower eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, near the former offices of the East Asiatic Company (fig.), and which were once considered the symbolic gateway into Siam. The historic Customs House was built in 1888 and used by the Customs Office until it in 1949 moved to Khlong Toei Port. The building later came to be used as staff residences for the Bang Rak Fire Department until early 2016, when those tenants were relocated due to the progressive deterioration and crumbling of the building, which now awaits renovation. See also POSTAGE STAMP and MAP. 回

Sunny Bangchak

Officially known as the Bangjaak/Bangchak Renewable Energy Learning Center, Sunny Bangchak is a multifaceted facility dedicated to renewable energy education and innovation. Beyond being a large solar farm, it features diverse renewable energy sources such as solar, water, wind, and geothermal energy. The center includes an algae research dome for biodiesel production, a 4D movie theater on renewable energy, and an exhibition room showcasing the importance of energy in modern life. Outdoor exhibits at Sunny Bangchak demonstrate practical applications of renewable energy, including palm plantations, a green refinery, a sufficiency economy model, a community gas station, and a used vegetable oil project. These exhibits illustrate how sustainable practices can be integrated into daily life. Sunny Bangchak's comprehensive educational programs and interactive exhibits aim to raise awareness about the value of renewable energy and its role in a sustainable future, making it a vital resource for anyone interested in sustainable energy solutions. In Thai, known as Soon Rian Roo Phalang Ngaan Thot Thaen Bangchak. Also transliterated Bangjaak. 回

Sunthorn Phu (สุนทรภู่)

The most celebrated Thai poet who lived from 1786 to 1855. It was first assumed that he was born in Klaeng, in the province of Rayong, but scholars nowadays believe that he actually came from Thonburi. As a writer he was highly praised by king Rama II, with whom he adapted a version of the Ramakien, and he is the author of the romantic epos Phra Aphaimanih, his most famous work. During the reign of king Rama III he fell into disgrace, but was later reinstated by king Rama IV. Today his statue stands in Klaeng and another one was erected in June 2005 in Thonburi, now thought to be his birthplace. Klaeng today has a memorial park with a monument of this poet, as well as with statues of the main characters from Phra Aphaimanih, Sunthorn Phu's most celebrated work. See also POSTAGE STAMP and LIST OF RAMAKIEN CHARACTERS & PLACE NAMES. 回

Sunthorn Ratchawongsa (สุนทรราชวงศาฯ)

Thai. Name of the first ruler of Yasothon, with the title of Phra and who ruled from 1814 to 1823 AD. READ ON. 回

Sunthorn Wohaan (สุนทรโวหาร)

Thai. Name of a Phraya and important poet from Chachengsao, who was the author of the first ever textbook of Thailand, called Baep Riang Luang (แบบเรียนหลวง), and which was used to teach in Suan Kulaab, the rose garden school inside the Grand Palace. He is regarded as the highest authority on Thai language during the reign of King Rama V and for the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Rattanakosin in 1882, he was appointed chief examiner of the Ramakien murals in Wat Phra Kaew, i.e. the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. He lived from 1822 to 1891, is nicknamed Noi Ajaan Yahng Koon (น้อย อาจาร ยางกูร)), and is fully known as Phraya Sri Sunthorn Wohaan, also transcribed Phya Si Sunthon Wohan. See also LIST OF RAMAKIEN CHARACTERS & NAMES. 回

Sun Tzu (孫子)

Chinese. Name of a general and military strategist of the Qi Kingdom (though later fled to the Wu Kingdom) during the Eastern Zhou Period of China, who lived between 544 and 496 BC. He was also a philosopher and writer, and is credited as the author of The Art of War, an influential work of military tactics that throughout time has inspired military and political leaders worldwide, and in Chinese is known as  Sun Tzu Bing Fah (孫子兵法), literally ‘Master Sun's Military Methods’. He describes a war strategy that defies convention and with principles based on Taoism, such as Wu Wei and to go with the flow. Tactics described are those used by what is referred to as the True General, who hides his intentions and relies on deception, e.g. when strong, look weak; when weak, look strong; when far away, give the impression you are close; when close, give the impression you are far away; etc. Another tactic is to use the least amount of effort and the fewest resources, i.e. the best war is won without fighting, according to the Taoist concept of ‘soft overcomes hard’, and uses soft war, such as manipulative diplomacy, bluffing, spies, etc. in order to convince the other party they are defeated and to give up without even fighting. To fight and conquer in all battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting. In modern Pinyin, Tzu is transliterated as Zi, and his full name thus is spelled Sunzi. 回

Sun Wukong (孙悟空)

Chinese. Name of a mythical monkey, with acrobatic skills and a child-like playfulness, but also with a cunning mind. READ ON. 回

Sunyata (शून्यता, สุญญตา)

Sanskrit-Thai term for the Pali expression anatta, used in Buddhism to describe ‘non-ego’ and ‘non-soul’, and usually translated as ‘nothingness’ or ‘emptiness’. See also POSTAGE STAMP. 回

Sun Yat Sen (孙逸仙)

Chinese. Name of the founder (fig.) and in 1912 for less than a year the provisional President of the Republic of China. Afterward he became the leader of the Kuomintang until his death in 1925. He was succeeded by Chiang Kai Shek (fig.). Usually referred to as Dr. Sun Yat Sen and his name is also transliterated Sun Yat-sen. He is nicknamed Sun Zhongshan (孫中山), i.e. ‘Sun [of/from the] Central Mountains’. See also Wuchang Uprising. See LIST OF CHINESE RULERS and TRAVEL PICTURE. 回

suo yi (蓑衣)

Chinese. Term for a kind of raincoat woven from straw, rush or fan palm leaves, and typically used by farmers in southern China, as well as by cormorant fishermen (fig.). Whereas the character suo (蓑) refers to any rain coat made of straw, rush, fan-palm leaves, and so forth, the word yi (衣) is used as a classifier for clothes. 回

Suphan (สุพรรณ)

1. Thai. A regional name for the Tha Chin River used near Suphanburi, roughly between Chainat, where it is known by the local name Makhaam Thao River, and Nakhon Pathom, where it is referred to as the Nakhon Chai Sri River. 回

2. Pali-Thai. ‘Gold’ or ‘golden’. As a prefix in compound names and words it is sometimes pronounced suphana, as in Suphanahongse. 回

Suphanahongse (สุพรรณหงส์)

Pali-Thai. ‘Golden Swan’. Name of one of the most prominent Royal Barges, as well as another name for the mythical swan hongse. Its figurehead is part of the logo of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (fig.). In Thai pronounced Suphanahong, also known as hong thong and as a barge in full called Reua Phra Thihnang Suphanahong (fig.). Sometimes transcribed Suphannahongse. See also Reua Ekachai Heun Haaw and Reua Ekachai Laaw Thong (fig.). See also THEMATIC STREET LIGHT (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7), (8), (9), (10), (11), (12), (13), (14), (15), (16), (17) and (18). 回

Suphanamatcha (สุพรรณมัจฉา)

Pali-Thai. ‘Golden fish’. A mermaid and daughter of Totsakan in the Thai Ramakien, with whom the monkey-general Hanuman (fig.) begot his son Madchanu, who was born with the body of a monkey and the tail of a fish (fig.). The story does not appear in the original Sanskrit text of the Ramayana, but does occur also in the Khmer version, known as Reamker, where Suphanamatcha is called Sovanna Maccha. See also Suwan, Suphan and Matsya. See also LIST OF RAMAKIEN CHARACTERS & NAMES. 回

Suphanburi (สุพรรณบุรี)

Pali-Thai. ‘City of gold’. An ancient city and the capital of a province (map) with the same name. READ ON. 回

Suphankanlaya (สุพรรณกัลยา)

Pali-Thai. ‘Golden Lady’. Name of a 16th century Princess of Ayutthaya who was a Queen Consort of King Bayinnaung (fig.) of Burma. READ ON. 回

Supreme Patriarch

See Phrasangkaraat. 回

Sura (सुरा, สุรา)

1. Sanskrit. Goddess of wine who surfaced during the churning of the Ocean of Milk, as well as the name of a beverage distilled from rice meal which was popular among the Kshatriya warriors and people from the lower castes alike. 回

2. Thai for ‘alcohol’. 回

Surakaan (สุรกานต์)

1. Thai. ‘Precious Crystal’. Name of a magical crystal ring, that occurs in the Ramakien. Phra Phrom (fig.) gave it as a weapon to Saeng Ahtit, and it has the power to emit a deadly ray that can instantly age anyone into death. When Phra Ram (fig.) was informed that Saeng Ahtit had deposited it with Phra Phrom at the time that Totsakan (fig.) send him into battle, the latter tricked Phra Phrom into giving the crystal ring to Ongkhot (fig.), who had disguised himself as Jitraphairi/Wichitphai (จิตรไพรี/วิจิตรไพรี), the half-brother of Saeng Ahtit. See also LIST OF RAMAKIEN CHARACTERS & NAMES. 回

2. Thai. ‘Precious Crystal’. Name of a monkey-warrior from the city of Meuang Kheedkhin, that appears in the Ramakien as an ally of Phra Ram (fig.). He has a yellowish-red to vermilion fur and wears a kabang-style crown. He is one of the eighteen Wahnon Sip-paet Mongkut, and an avatar of Phra Mahachai. See also LIST OF RAMAKIEN CHARACTERS. 回

Suranari (สุรนารี)

Born as Mo (fig.) in Korat in 1771 AD during the rule of King Taksin the Great. She was the daughter of Nai Kim (กิ่ม) and Nang Boonma (บุญมา) and married to Chao Phraya Mahisarathibodi, acting governor of Korat. In 1826 the troops of King Anuwong of Vientiane rebelled against Thai supremacy and conquered several cities in northeastern Thailand. When they besieged Korat with an army of 3,000 men, Mo led a successful counterattack with the women of Korat, forcing the Laotian troops to retreat. Afterwards she led her troops back into Korat where she added an army of men to her group and joined up with the troops of the capital in order to drive the army of King Anuwong further from Thai territory (fig.). For her courage and for liberating Korat King Rama III conferred her with the title of Lady Suranari. Her statue now stands in the city of Nakhon Ratchasima (fig.). See also POSTAGE STAMPS and TRAVEL PICTURE. 回

Somdet Phra Sakayamuni Sri Sumet Bophit (สมเด็จพระศากยมุณีศรีสุเมธบพิตร)

Thai. Name of the largest reclining Buddha in Thailand, located in the Maha Wihaan Phra Non Yai at Wat Bang Phli Yai Klang, in Samut Prakan. READ ON. 回

Surang (สุหรั่ง)

See Jone Surang. 回

Suraphon Sombatcharoen (สุรพล สมบัติเจริญ)

Thai. Name of an iconic look thung singer-songwriter from Suphanburi and a pioneer in the genre. READ ON. 回

Surasinghanat (สุรสิงหนาท)

Thai. The first uparacha or viceroy of the Rattanakosin period with the title Somdet Phra Bowon Racha Chao which is followed by his name and the prefix Maha. Born in 1743 as Boonma (map - fig.), he was the younger and only brother of Thong Duang, also known as Chao Phraya Chakri, the later King Rama I. He was a descendant of a noble family from the Ayutthaya Period, the son of a middle-level official in the Mahatthai (มหาดไทย), the Ministry of the Interior which at that time was responsible for the provinces North and East of the capital, and a Chinese mother who herself was born into a rich family. Through Thong Duan's principal wife this family was also closely related to the Bunnag family. He was a great warrior who often fought at the side of his elder brother, when he was commander of the troops campaigning in the northern regions and later in the East. After the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767 he joined the service of Phra Chao Taksin and brought his elder brother to the king's attention, who after some successes in battle, in 1769 raised Thong Duan to the position of Yommaraat and in 1770 to that of Chakri, the same year in which Surasinghanat himself was made a Yommaraat. In 1778 Surasinghanat, joined his brother when he conquered the Laotian Kingdoms of Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Champasak, that all fell in the same year and were made vassals of Siam. As a consequence the Emerald Buddha, which was moved from Chiang Mai to Vientiane by King Setthathirat  in 1564, was brought back to Thonburi, where the armies arrived back in April 1779. In 1781, both brothers were again on campaign, this time in Cambodia. Their mission was to put a pro-Siamese monarch on the throne, after a rebellion had led to the death of the previous Khmer king.  But in the meantime rebels at home marched on Thonburi and seized King Taksin, who by then had become mentally ill and stood accused of megalomania. Chao Phraya Chakri hastily went back and the rebels invited him on the throne, an offer which he accepted on 6 April 1782 and Surasinghanat was made viceroy. In 1785, when the Burmese king Bodawhpaya launched a major attack on Siam, the viceroy took up position in Kanchanaburi and successfully blocked the Three Pagoda Pass, the key Burmese invasion route. Boonma was married to princess Sri Anocha, a sister of Chao Kawila, and died in 1803. He is also known by the title Krom Phra Rachawang Bowon Maha Surasinghanat and is accredited for ordering the construction of Phra Thihnang Phutthaisawan (fig.) and for sending back the Phra Phutta Sihing Buddha image from Chiang Mai (fig.). See MAP and TRAVEL PICTURE. 回

Surasvati (สุรัสวดิ)

Short name for Surasvati Devi, who is otherwise known as Sarasvati. 回

Surasvati Devi (สุรัสวดิเทวี)

Thai name for Sarasvati. In short, also called just Surasvati. 回

Surat Thani (สุราษฎร์ธานี)

Thai. Name of a province (map) and its capital city in South Thailand, situated on the east coast of the Thai peninsula 644 kms from Bangkok. READ ON. 回

Surin (สุรินทร์)

Sanskrit-Thai. ‘God Indra’. Name of a province (map) in Isaan, 457 kilometers northeast of Bangkok and bordering Cambodia. READ ON. 回

Surin Chokhong (สุรินทร์จอข่อง)

Thai-Burmese name for the Burmese general who in 1767 invaded Singburi, where he met fierce resistance from the heroes of Bang Rajan. READ ON. 回

Suriyaphong Pharitdet

Thai. Name of the ruler of Nan in the reign of King Rama V, who had the title of Phra Chao. READ ON. 回

Suriyapop (สุริยาภพ)

Name of a giant or yak character in the Ramakien. He has a red complexion and wears a chadah-like crown, that has a rather straight and thick peak with three crenate notches at the base and a tip with an obliquely forward sloping surface, and which is generally described as a bamboo shoot crown. At first glance, he is confusingly similar to Totsakiriton (fig.), but he has no elephant trunk-like nose. He is one of the 12 giants, set up in 6 pairs, that guard the entrances in the enclosure of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, i.e. Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, where he is erected in pair with Indrachit (fig.), who in turn is similar to Totsakiriwan (fig.), but also lacks the elephant trunk-like nose. Pronounced Suriyaa-phop, but also known as Suryapop (สุรยะภพ), which is pronounced Surya-phop. His brothers are Nonyuphak and Banlaichak. See also LIST OF RAMAKIEN CHARACTERS & NAMES. 回

Suriyothai (สุริโยทัย)

Thai-Sanskrit. ‘Sunrise’. Queen and royal consort of King Chakraphad, the 16th King (17th reign) of Ayutthaya. She was killed in a war with the Burmese on 3 February 1549 AD, thus sacrificing her life to protect her husband and her country from foreign aggression. Seated on a war elephant (fig.) and disguised as a male warrior in battle dress, she interrupted the fighting between the king and Phra Chao Prae (พระเจ้าแปร) of Burma, when her husband's chang seuk collapsed from wounds and the king was in danger of being killed. Both parties were fighting with a ho ngao (fig.), a scythe-like weapon used particularly in hand-to-hand combat on elephants’ backs, a type of warfare known as yutthahadtie, but since the queen's elephant was much smaller than that of the king and that of her opponent, she had a great disadvantage. She was eventually slashed to death, though her interference saved the king from further attacks. A pagoda or chedi (map - fig.) and a memorial shrine (map - fig.) in the former rear palace of Ayutthaya commemorates her heroic deed, as well as a memorial park, featuring a large statue of the Queen riding her war elephant (fig.). A historical movie about the life of Queen Suriyothai was co-sponsored by Queen Sirikit Kitthiyagon. 回

Surya, Suriya (सूर्य, สุริยะ)

Sanskrit-Thai. The Vedic sun god. He is regarded as a symbol of radiance, knowledge, Enlightenment, and also stands for time, space and universal order. He is often portrayed with a halo (fig.) and a lotus in each hand. He drives a chariot pulled by seven horses and is the lokapala of the Southwest. In Thailand, his name is pronounced Suriya, but he is also known by the name Nairitti (fig.). He, together with the moon god Chandra, discovered the deceit of the demon Rahu when the amrita was distributed. They informed Vishnu who immediately cut the demon in two with his discus. However, the amrita swallowed by Rahu already had its effect and both parts lived on separately. Because Rahu has never forgotten the betrayal by the sun and the moon he chases them alternately with open mouth thus causing the eclipses of the sun and moon each time he swallows them. Because he was cut in two he has no lower body causing them to keep on slipping through. At the so-called kama-sutra temples in Khajuraho (fig.), Surya is depicted with two women, one on either side of him, representing morning and evening. He is the father of Yama, the god of death (fig.), and is otherwise known as Vivasvat. In Chinese, he is referred to as the Sun Star King and known as Tai Yang Xing Jun (太陽星君 - fig.). See also LIST OF RAMAKIEN CHARACTERS & NAMES. 回

Suryavarman (សូរ្យវរ្ម័ន)

Khmer. Ruler of the Angkor Kingdom from 1006 to 1050 AD. He ascended the throne after he usurped King Udayadityavarman in circa 1002 AD. Major constructions built by King Suryavarman include the temple Khao Phra Wihaan (fig.) in the Dangrek mountain range (fig.) and the West Baray, i.e. the second Angkorian reservoir, as well as the completion of Phimeanakas and Ta Keo, of which construction for the former began at the end of the 10th century, during the reign of Rajendravarman II (944-968 AD), and for the latter in the late 10th to early 11th century AD, under the auspices of Jayavarman V. Suryavarman is also referred to as Suryavarman I. Angkor Wat, the largest of the Khmer temples, was built in the early 12th century by Suryavarman's namesake Suryavarman II. The name Suryavarman could be translated as ‘Protected by Surya’. See also varman. 回

Susahn Hoi 75 Lahn Pih (สุสานหอย 75 ล้านปี)

Thai. ‘75-Million-year-old Shell Cemetery’. Name of a beach in Krabi province that has some of oldest shellfish fossils on Earth. It is part of Hahd Nopharat Tara-Moo Koh Phi Phi National Park (fig.), that also includes the Phi Phi Islands (fig.). The 40 to 75 million year built-up of shellfish fossils has created this beach that looks like it consists of concrete slabs. These slabs are made up of shells from shellfish that were compressed into a gigantic plate that over time broke into pieces. In the past, this area initially had fresh water and was a natural habitat for shellfish, but a shift in tectonic plates caused salt water to come into the area. The salt caused the shells to fuse together creating this limestone beach with shelly slabs that have a thickness of about 40 centimeters. When the tectonic plates shifted again it raised the land and exposed the fossils found here today. Besides a visitors and information center, the park also has has a number of displays on shells and fossils. WATCH VIDEO. 回

Susahn Tae Chew (สุสานแต้จิ๋ว)

Thai. ‘Tae Chew Graveyard’. Name of a former Chinese cemetery in Bangkok's Sathorn district, used for more than 80 years as a burial place for deceased immigrants from the ethnical subgroup of Han Chinese people, who settled in Thailand from the coastal region of southeastern China. With over 4,750,000 the Tae Chew make up for more than half of the ethnic Chinese population in Thailand and this burial ground covers an area of 150 rai. Today, the area has been renovated into a recreational park, where people go to exercise or relax, some even in hammocks between the graves (fig.), and it has been renamed the Beautiful Garden in the Cemetery or Suan Suay Samakhom Tae Chew in Thai, literally the ‘Beautiful Park of the Tae Chew Community’. Besides the many ancient graves there are old Chinese buildings, a religious shrine, an open-air gym, a sports field, etc. This Chinese or Mahayana cemetery is one of the few Buddhist graveyards in Bangkok, as Thai or Theravada Buddhists usually cremate their departed. Also transcribed Susan Teochew. See MAP. 回

sushi (寿司)

Japanese. A Japanese dish of balls of cold rice topped with raw fish (sashimi) or other ingredients, including various meats and vegetables. The dish has derived from the practice of fermenting fish with salt and rice, i.e. fish being put into fermenting rice, causing the fish to break down into amino acids, due to the vinegar produced from the fermenting rice. In the past, the fermented fish was taken out of the rice for consumption whilst the fermented rice was disposed of, as it was only used as an agent to ferment the fish. Nowadays the rice used is special sushi rice, a Japanese short-grained white rice mixed with rice vinegar, sugar and salt, and occasionally Japanese rice wine (sake) and an edible kelp. The rice is cooled to room temperature before being used as sushi filling. There are several types of sushi, all with their own names, depending on the different fillings and toppings, condiments and the way they are put together, e.g. maki sushi, a type of sushi wrapped in sheets of dried seaweed using a sushi rolling mat called makisu (fig.). Sushi is served in small bite-size chunks and usually served with soy sauce and sometimes with wasabi. In Japanese, non-Kanji script, sushi is written すし. In kanji script the word sushi could literally be translated as ‘long life’ and ‘control’, neither of which have anything to do with the food, unless it perhaps refers to the preservation of the fish after the fermentation process. The kanji script here is used for its phonetic value rather than for its semantics, as the word sushi is generally understood to mean ‘it is sour’. The phonetic usage of kanji script to represent words like this is known as ateji (あてじ) in Japanese. See also tsukemono and gari. 回

sut (สูตร)

Thai for sutra, ‘thread’. It stands for the teachings or tracts of the Buddha that form the second part of the Buddhist Tripitaka and are symbolized by the sai sin. The word is also used as verb to express the use of the sai sin and could be translated as ‘to wind with a thread’. 回

Sutaungpyay Nagah Yohn (ဆု​တောင်ပြည့်နဂါးရုံ)

Burmese. ‘Wish-granting Dragon Prayer Hall’. Name of a Buddhist temple in Mandalay, located on the southwestern corner of the Mahamuni Buddha (fig.) temple complex, to the south of— and adjacent to— its western entrance corridor. It features only a few building and a garden with a collection of ancient stupas. The word nagah in the temple's name refers to Burmese-style dragons, i.e. mythological, naga-like creatures, yet different from naga (fig.) in that nagah have legs (fig.). See EXPLORER'S MAP and TRAVEL PICTURE. 回

Sutaungpyay Phaya (ဆုတောင်းပြည့်ဘုရား)

Burmese. ‘Pagoda of the Fulfilled Wish’. Name of a Buddhist temple on top of Mandalay Hill (fig.). READ ON. 回

Su Taung Pyi Paya (ဆုတောင်းပြည့်ဘုရား)

Another transliteration for Sutaungpyay Phaya. 回

Suthida (สุทิดา)

Thai. Queen consort of Thailand and fourth wife of King Vajiralongkorn. She was born on 3 June 1978 as Suthida Tidjai (สุทิดา ติดใจ) and was made the queen consort on 1 May 2019, just days before King Rama X's official coronation. Her royal name is Suthida Phatchara Suthaphimon Laksana (สุทิดา พัชรสุธาพิมลลักษณ). Born on a Saturday, her personal flag consist of a purple field (fig.), i.e. the colour of her birthday according to the sih prajam wan-system, with her royal cypher, i.e. a monogram consisting of the Thai letters s and th (สท) stylized in purple and yellow, underneath a chadah-style crown, which represents the Great Crown of Victory (fig.). 回

Suthon (สุธน)

See Phra Suthon. 回

sutra (सूत्र)

Sanskrit. ‘Thread’, ‘string’, ‘formula’ or ‘discourse’. The teachings or tracts of the Buddha that form the second part of the Buddhist Tripitaka, and which contains a nikaya, i.e. a ‘collection’ of five discourses, i.e. the deegha or ‘long’ discourses; the majjhima or ‘middle-length’ discourses; the samyutta or ‘thematically linked’ discourses; the anguttara or  ‘gradual collection’ discourses; and the khuddaka or ‘minor’ discourses. The term is however also used for some Hindu texts, as in Kamasutra, i.e. a discourse on kama or ‘love’. In Thai, pronounced sut and symbolized by a white string known as sai sin. See also Buddhist precepts. 回

Sut Saakhon (สุดสาคร)

Thai. Name of a character from the Phra Aphaimanih story by Sunthorn Phu. He is the son of Prince Phra Aphaimanih with a mermaid named Nang Ngeuak (fig.). She had met the prince when he and his son Sin Samut were held captive by an ogress in an undersea cave. The mermaid helped them escape, and the two produced a son of their own. Sut Saakhon was later sent on a quest to search his father and rides a dragon-horse, that in Thai is called mah nin mangkon (fig.). He is depicted on the fifth of a series of eight Thai postage stamps issued in 2009 to publicize the story of Phra Aphaimanih as a major literary work of the Rattanakosin Era (fig.). Also spelled Sutsakon and Sud Sakhon. 回

sutta

Pali for sutra. 回

Suttha Thipayarat (สุทธา ทิพยรัตน์)

Thai. Name of the 19th child of King Chulalongkorn, and first daughter with Queen Sukhumahn Marasih. She was born on 14 September 1877 and was bestowed with the royal title Princess of Rattanakosin. She is the elder full sister of Prince Boriphat Sukhumphan (fig.). 回

suvarna (सुवर्ण)

Sanskrit-Pali word meaning ‘gold’ or ‘golden’. The Thai word Suwan derives from it. 回

Suvarnabhumi (सुवर्णभूमि)

Sanskrit-Pali. ‘Land of gold’. In ancient literature it refers to a territory in Southeast Asia, probably Thailand. The name likely refers to the many paddies, e.g. Lan Na that when ready for harvest turn yellowish gold. See also the Thai term Suwannaphum. 回

Suvarnavabhasa (सुवर्णवभासा)

Sanskrit. ‘Golden One’. Name of a golden peacock (mayura) king, who lived near the Himalayas and who used to recite the Mahamayuri dharani daily with great devotion. One day the peacock king travelled with his family to the mountains, forgetting to recite the dharani. He was caught by hunters and thinking of his forgetfulness of the dharani he immediately began to recite it and was able to free himself. The Buddha told Ananda that the peacock king was none other than the Buddha himself. Consequently, the dharani became known as the Golden Peacock Charm and is believed to be efficient in all cases of dangers, on top of a protection from snake bites. 回

Suwaan (สุวาลย์)

Thai. Name of one of the two scribes of Phra Yom (fig.), the god who presides over the dead. He is depicted with a pen and book in which he records the bad deeds of mankind (fig.), whereas his counterpart Suwan keeps record of the good deeds. Compare with the Vedic scribe Citragupta. In Chinese mythology, there are four scribes, i.e. one who keeps record of the good deeds of humankind, one who records their bad deeds, and each of them with a personal controller, who checks that not mistakes are made. They are collectively referred to as the Magistrates of the Netherworld (fig.). 回

Suwan (สุวรรณ)

1. Thai word meaning ‘gold’ or ‘golden’. In compound names and words, it is usually pronounced suwanna, as in Suwannaphum, Suwanna Chedi (fig.), and Nang Suwanna Malih (fig.). Compare with Sawan (สวรรค์), i.e. ‘Heaven’. 回

2. Thai. Name of one of the two scribes of Phra Yom (fig.), the god who presides over the dead. He is depicted with a pen and book in which he records the good deeds of mankind (fig.), whereas his counterpart Suwaan keeps record of the bad deeds. Compare with the Vedic scribe Citragupta. In Chinese mythology, there are four scribes, i.e. one who keeps record of the good deeds of humankind, one who records their bad deeds, and each of them with a personal controller, who checks that not mistakes are made. They are collectively referred to as the Magistrates of the Netherworld (fig.). 回

Suwannaa (สุวรรณา)

Thai. Name for a species of water lily, with the botanical name Nymphaea suwanna and commonly as the Suwanna Water Lily. This free-blooming hardy water lily originates from Thailand and blooms all year round. It is a hybrid of the the Khao Thammanune and the Blue Capense. This kind of water lily has petals with two alternating colours and it is depicted on a Thai postage stamp issued in 2008 (fig.). 回

suwannaphreuk (สุวรรณพฤกษ์)

1. Thai. ‘Golden flora’. Nickname for a kind of cassia tree with the scientific Latin name Senna spectabilis or Cassia spectabilis, commonly known as Golden Wonder Tree. It is officially known by the Thai name khi lehk american and the botanical name Cassia floribunda and refers to a tree of which the young leaves and flowers are used to make a curry called kaeng khi lehk. It has yellow, upward growing flowers and is sometimes confused with the rachaphreuk, another cassia tree with similar, yet drooping flowers (fig.). Its fruit consist of long, flattened pods. Confusingly, the name suwannaphreuk is in Thai literature also used for the cordia dentata (see below). In addition, it is sometimes also commonly referred to as Golden Shower Tree, a name also used for and better befitting the Cassia fistula, since it has drooping flowers. 回

2. Thai. ‘Golden flora’. Name for a small flowering and ornamental tree or shrub with edible fruit. It has pendant clusters of crinkly, papery, pale yellow flowers and sand-paper-like leaves. It is commonly known as yellow cordia and its scientific Latin name is Cordia dentata. It belongs to the family Boraginaceae. However, the name suwannaphreuk is in Thailand also used for the Cassia floribunda and the senna or cassia spectabilis (see above). 回

Suwannaphum (สุวรรณภูมิ)

1. Thai. ‘Golden land’. The name of a land mentioned in many ancient sources, such as the Mahavamsa and some stories of the Jataka. The name refers to the Indochina peninsula, practically equal to Southeast Asia, though it is nowadays claimed by many of the member states as if it refers exclusively to their particular nation. See also Suvarnabhumi. 回

2. Thai. Name of a district (amphur) in the province Roi Et. 回

3. Thai. Name of Thailand's largest airport (fig.), that officially opened for all domestic and international commercial flights on 28 September 2006 (fig.). It is located in the amphur Bang Phli of Samut Prakan province (map), about 25 km East of Bangkok. The main departure hall features a large statue (fig.) of a Thai-style interpretation of the Churning of the Ocean of Milk (fig.), and lining the main road from and into the airport are bronze statues of Kinnaris, i.e. mythical half-bird half-woman creatures, in a phranommeua gesture (fig.), i.e. making a respectful wai (fig.), the traditional Thai greeting with the hands brought together in front of the chest, in order to welcome and bid farewell all travelers arriving and leaving from Thailand's prime airport (fig.). See MAP, POSTAGE STAMPS (1), (2) and (3), PANORAMA PICTURE, and TRAVEL PICTURES (1), (2), (3), (4) and (5). 回

Suwannasahm (สุวรรณสาม)

Pali-Thai. Name of one of the ten jataka, i.e. life stories of the previous incarnations of the Buddha. READ ON. 回

Suwanphingkhaan (สุวรรณภิงคาร)

Pali-Thai. ‘Golden pot’. Name for a type of royal food accessory. It is a compound of the words Suwan meaning ‘gold’ and phingkhaan meaning ‘pot’, and is a kind of water pot, pitcher, flask or jar, used to supply cold water to the King. Some sources claim that it is used for pouring water ritually, in order to declare the abolishment of someone's rights, as at the time when King Naresuan (fig.) poured water from the Suwanphingkhaan onto the ground, as a declaration of Ayutthaya's independence from Hongsawadih. Sometimes transliterated Suwanbingkarn. See also Treasure Vase, kundika, kalasa, and puranakata. 回

Suwaphan Sanithawong (สุวพรรณ สนิทวงศ์)

Thai. Name of a Momratchawong, who was the eldest son of Saai Sanithawong. READ ON. 回

swa (စွာ)

Burmese. ‘To be impudent’ or ‘to be aggressive’. Sometimes transliterated hcwar. See also Suphankanlaya. 回

swallow's nest

Bird's nest made from the saliva of a certain species of swallow, known as cave swift. READ ON. 回

Swan Goose

Common name for a rare species of goose, with the scientific designation Anser cygnoides. It is found in China and Mongolia, and may sometimes winter in Laos and Thailand, as well as in northern Vietnam (fig.). It has greyish-brown upperparts and is white to pale buff below, with a whitish throat and neck-sides, whilst the back of its long neck is seal brown. Its legs and feet are orange, whilst its bill is black, with a thin white stripe that surrounds the bill base, and a basal knob on the upper side of the bill in males. There is also a domesticated breed, which is generally referred to as Chinese Goose. The latter is somewhat larger, its males have a more prominent basal knob, and the breed also has a white variety with a completely orange bill (fig.). With the brown variety of the Chinese Goose, the black bill sometimes has an orange wash towards the base and on the basal knob. 回

swastika (स्वस्तिक)

Sanskrit. ‘Well-being’. A hooked cross, in either clockwise or counterclockwise direction. As a religious symbol it occurs in Buddhism and Hinduism, and even more frequently in Jainism, where it represents the Tirthankara Suparsva, the seventh jina. In Buddhism it is interpreted as a symbol of the dhammachakka, the Wheel of Law, and stands for universal harmony and the balance of opposites. In Buddhism, especially Mahayana Buddhism (fig.), it often appears on the chest or soles, and sometimes in the palm of the hand, of certain Buddha images, especially those from China or in Chinese style (fig.). In Hinduism, when in clockwise direction, it represents the cosmic dance around a fixed centre, i.e. the evolution of the universe and as such guards against evil, but in counterclockwise direction, it represents the involution thereof and is thus considered evil. It is also seen as a symbol of the four points of the compass and of the sun, thus signifying stability and representing the sun god Surya. The sign is considered auspicious by all Hindus and is therefore often found as a decorative symbol or as a mark to convey good luck (fig.). The word swastika first appeared in the epic of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. In Chinese, it is known by the name wan, which means ‘all’ or ‘eternality’. Also transcribed svastika. 回

sweet chili sauce

Name of a savory sauce typically used as a dip sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, etc. READ ON. 回

swordfish

See pla bai. 回