King Rama X
The schedule for the new Thai King has been in progress for over a year. Just recently though, the Royal Coronation Ceremony was unveiled.
King Vajiralongkorn [Rama X] inherited his throne from his father King Bhumibol [Rama IX] who died in October 2016 – or 2556 by the Thai Buddhist Calendar. The ceremony will officially start the beginning of his reign.
Sacred waters and auspicious occasions happening all this month [April 2019] and throughout the country will highlight the ceremonies preceding and following the King Vajiralongkorn’s crowning on May 4.
Coronation Programme
April 6 – Holy water drawing ritual. Hindu Brahmins will make offerings in Bangkok and 76 provinces to spirits at water sources. Water will be collected for later use at the crowning.
April 8 – Monks ritually consecrate the water. They then light auspicious candles to honor the king at provincial Royal Temples.
April 9 – The auspicious candles are extinguished and Buddhist processions are conducted around the temples.
April 18 – Holy Water collected nationwide will be sanctified in the capital at Wat Suthat Thepphawararam.
April 19 – The Holy Water is moved to Wat Phra Kaew.
April 22-23 – At Wat Phra Kaew – An engraving of the king’s name into a golden tablet, known as the Phra Suphanabat. A reading of the royal fortune. Creation of the royal seal. Designation of high ranking officials.
May 2 – The king will pay respect to previous kings and spirits at the Royal Plaza and the Memorial Bridge.
May 3 – The Phra Suphanabat, the royal fortune and royal seal are moved to to the throne hall while the king pays respect to the Emerald Buddha and royal remains. This marks the start of the coronation.
May 4 – Coronation rites. Purification bath and anointment. The crowning and investiture. – According to books about the coronations of Thai monarchs, once the king is presented with the anointment water, he takes a sip then dips his fingers into the vessel and uses the water to wipe his face.
May 5 – The inauguration of the kings official name. Re-establishment of royal family members’ ranks. A Royal Parade in the capital.
May 6 – The king grants an audience to the public and foreign diplomats. The date is declared a public holiday in commemoration of the coronation.
This explains why I decided to get back to Thailand. I may never have the opportunity to see such a spectacle again.
For more information on the intricate details of the coronation ceremony: https://www.bangkokpost.com/specials/royal-coronation/purification_bath.php
So interesting Gary! I excited to read about your journey! xoxo
Hi Gary,
Hope all is well with you!
Best wishes for Thailand and everything!
With chance, will see you in Tucson some day soon.
Look forward to read your next post.
Be well,
Dominique