Phra Bpit Thawaan

[camerata]

Anyone know the origin of this image, and whether it is considered Buddhist or Hindu? I found it at a temple in Cha-am. All the other images at the temple were of the Buddha or monks.

[sabaijai]

I've seen this sculpture in Cha-am, too, and wondered about it. I think I've also seen amulets of a similar nature.

Thais I've asked about it come up with an explanation that to me sounds related to the yoga concept of pratyahara, that is removal or closing off of the senses (presumably in order to meditate without distraction). There are six senses in this case, the five physical ones and then the mind door. The statue has six hands.

Tempting to say it's a Buddha because of the robe furl down the chest and the hair curls (can't tell if there's an ushnisha or 'head-bulb' on top - looks like no). Lotus pedestal again suggests Buddha ... stumped. In Mahayana Buddhism Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of compassion and world protector, has six arms so perhaps it's a very unique sculpture of Avalokitesvara?

[Abandon]

Can we include your good self in the next photo you post up Cam ?

[camerata]

Can we include your good self in the next photo you post up Cam ?

That might not be such a good idea, considering I look like a decrepit version of my avatar.

[sabaijai]

Can we include your good self in the next photo you post up Cam ?

That might not be such a good idea, considering I look like a decrepit version of my avatar.

That face looks familiar, from a film?

[camerata]

That face looks familiar, from a film?

Computer game. Seems like they modeled the hero after me in my younger days.