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Thepphanom

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Thepphanom or thephanom (Thai: เทพนม, pronounced [tʰêppʰa.nōm]) is a Thai term referring to the depiction in paintings or traditional Thai patterns of a devata performing the Añjali Mudrā hand gesture. The term is also the name of moves in muay Thai and traditional Thai dance.[1]

Thephanom also refers to an angel or deity who is a temple protector and guardian.[citation needed] They are often represented as a pair, a brother and a sister, kneeling on both knees with hands at the wai position, praying or offering respect.[citation needed] The Thepanom first came to earth when Buddha reached enlightenment. They became Buddha's protector, then guardian of religious temples and artifacts such as scrolls.[citation needed] The definition of Thepanom was arrived at by reading descriptions of Thepanom statues and communicating with Thai people.[citation needed]

References

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  1. ^ Royal Institute of Thailand. พจนานุกรมฉบับราชบัณฑิตยสถาน พ.ศ. 2554 [Royal Institute Dictionary, B.E. 2554] (in Thai).