Lighting Tummaka Thai Tradition

Lighting Tummaka Thai Tradition The Tradition of Lighting Tummaka Lanterns During the End of Buddhist Lent in Yasothon: A Beacon of Faith and Cultural Heritage The tradition of lighting Tummaka lanterns during the end of the Buddhist Lent in Yasothon is deeply rooted in Buddhist beliefs. According to Buddhist history, in the seventh Lent following his enlightenment, the Lord Buddha ascended to the Tavatimsa Heaven to spend the retreat and preach to his mother. After completing the Lent, he descended back to the human realm. This event is revered by Buddhists and has inspired the tradition of lighting Tummaka lanterns on the end of Buddhist Lent every year. The villagers of Thung Tae, Yasothon Province, prepare offerings to pay homage to the Buddha, and one of the unique symbols here is the Tummaka lantern, which is regarded as a sacred and precious offering in Buddhism.

 

Tummaka Lanterns: Symbols of Local Wisdom and Art The Tummaka lantern is a special lamp with a meticulous creation process. It starts with using the fruit of the Tummaka tree, a round wild fruit about the size of a fist, with a long stem and a thin, translucent rind. The villagers scrape off the green rind, scoop out the flesh and seeds, and then use a sharp knife to carve intricate patterns according to their preference. A candle is placed inside, and when lit, the light shining through the carved patterns creates a beautiful and serene atmosphere, filled with faith. It is often said, "The enchanting light of the Tummaka lantern, shining through the carved patterns, is mesmerizing and deeply captivating."

 

In addition to using candles, nowadays, the villagers have adapted to using electric bulbs for convenience and safety. The intricate and beautiful carvings on the Tummaka fruit reflect the local wisdom and craftsmanship passed down through generations.

 

Originally a local tradition practiced in Thung Tae village, the Tummaka lantern lighting ceremony during the end of Buddhist Lent in Yasothon was elevated to a provincial tradition in 2017. The event during the end of the Buddhist Lent has attracted increasing interest from both locals and tourists each year. The main venue for the event is in front of the Yasothon District Office. The event features various activities connected to local culture and lifestyle, such as the Tummaka Lantern Tree Contest from all 19 sub-districts, demonstrations of Tummaka lantern making, Tummaka lantern invention contests, and the Tummaka lantern dance, which is a cultural performance that highlights the Tummaka lantern as a creative medium.

 

The Tummaka Lantern Dance: The Dance of Light (Isan Traditions) The Tummaka lantern dance is a standout part of the tradition. Villagers perform a graceful dance while holding the brightly lit Tummaka lanterns as props. The light shining through the carved patterns adds a mysterious and impressive charm to the nighttime performance. This dance not only represents artistic expression but also showcases the community's cooperation and unity as they come together to create and preserve this valuable cultural heritage.

 

Aside from its beauty and spiritual significance, the Tummaka lantern and related products also play a role in the local economy. Villagers have developed various products from the Tummaka fruit, such as flashlights, necklaces, earrings, and other souvenirs, which are popular among tourists. These products are not just valuable keepsakes but also symbols of local culture and wisdom that have been preserved and developed over time. The sale of these products during the tradition helps increase income for local businesses and promotes cultural tourism in the area.

 

Thung Tae village has become a learning and preservation center for the Tummaka lantern lighting tradition. Students, educators, and the general public have the opportunity to learn and practice making Tummaka lanterns at Wat Burapha, a key site for passing on this tradition. Continuous training in the Tummaka lantern dance and making ensures that the youth and the public understand and appreciate the long-standing cultural values. Additionally, Thung Tae village has become a cultural tourist attraction that draws visitors who seek to experience unique cultural traditions.

 

In 2023, the Tummaka lantern lighting tradition during the end of Buddhist Lent in Yasothon was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage of Thailand, affirming its importance and value. This national recognition helps promote the preservation and transmission of the tradition to future generations. The Thung Tae community continues to play a crucial role in maintaining and developing this tradition, ensuring that it remains not only a local treasure but also a significant cultural heritage for Thailand as a whole.

 

The Tummaka lantern lighting tradition during the end of Buddhist Lent in Yasothon is not only a symbol of Buddhist faith but also a representation of the community's unity and cooperation in preserving a cultural identity that endures through every era.