Ram Phi Rong Tradition of Nakhon Nayok Province The Mon community of Nakhon Nayok has a rich history and culture intertwined with Thai communities in the Central Region. Their beliefs reflect a blend of spiritual reverence for sacred entities or "spirit worship" and Buddhism. However, the Mon of Nakhon Nayok exhibit distinct characteristics different from the "New Mon," who migrated to Thailand during the early Rattanakosin period. The New Mon have been able to preserve aspects of their traditional culture, such as speaking the Mon language, consuming Mon cuisine, and wearing traditional Mon attire, to some extent. In contrast, the Mon of Nakhon Nayok have culturally assimilated with other Thai groups, making it difficult to differentiate them.

 

What continues to signify the unique identity of the Mon in Nakhon Nayok is their ancestral spirit worship, known as "Phi Mon" (Mon spirits), which has been passed down and remains a vital part of their community rituals, such as the Ram Phi Rong ceremony.

 

Significance of Ram Phi Rong The Ram Phi Rong ceremony plays a significant role in preserving and developing the cultural heritage of the Mon in Nakhon Nayok, bridging traditional beliefs and daily life. The ceremony serves multiple purposes, including: Worshiping the spirits protecting the household or village. Honoring ancestral spirits or family guardians. Expressing gratitude for fulfilled vows or blessings.

 

This ritual showcases the community's beliefs and faith through unique artistic expressions. The performance consists of 15 different dance routines, such as sword dances, dagger dances, and spirit representations of elephants, horses, and buffaloes. Each spirit wears a costume that aligns with its role, typically featuring traditional Mon attire, such as a "jong kraben" (wraparound pants) and a shawl draped around the neck.

 

When a spirit is about to possess a medium, the medium clings to a "pha khao ma" (a traditional checked cloth) to allow the spirit entry and then dances in rhythm with the accompanying music. During the performance, the medium drinks liquor and consumes ritual offerings (mainly liquor and minimal food) while conversing with the community members. The possession can occur one spirit at a time or involve multiple spirits simultaneously. The dance continues until the medium collapses to the ground, signaling that the spirit has departed the body.

 

The Ram Phi Rong ceremony is a central ritual for the Mon community in Ban Na Subdistrict, Nakhon Nayok Province. It is typically held after the harvest season and before the Buddhist Lent period, excluding Buddhist holy days.

 

The Ram Phi Rong tradition embodies the profound beliefs and cultural heritage of the Mon in Nakhon Nayok. It harmonizes ancestral spirit worship with Buddhist faith, ensuring the preservation of the community's identity. Beyond cultural conservation, the ritual fosters unity and strengthens relationships among community members.