Research & Article

In Thailand there is an ancient belief that in every person resides a khwan–-an insubstantial entity whose presence ensures good health and happiness, while its departure will cause undesirable effects such as illness. This article aims to explain the origin of the khawn and its contemporary ceremonies, beginning with an attempt to define the khwan and a discussion of its etymology. Through a comparison to other Thai words often associated with it, a better understanding of the khwan is communicated. This comprehensive conceptualization is furthered by an exploration of similar terms originating in other parts of the world, such as China, Laos, and Malaysia. The understanding of the khwan consequently established is then put into the context of the Tham Khwan Ceremony through a detailed explanation of procedure and its related objects. Additionally, the procedural differences of the Royal Tham Khwan Ceremony are discussed, as well as the particularities found in north and north-east Thailand. Furthermore, also explored are various informal “Tham Khwan” ceremonies performed in response to child illness, however these particular accounts are confined to Bangkok and derived from personal experience of the author.