5883. Erawan Shrine

 THAILAND - 27 FEB 2026: 6.26am. Erawan Shrine, Bangkok is a Hindu shrine constructed in 1956. It houses a golden statue of Phra Phrom, the Thai representation of the Hindu god Brahma. Visitors worship and seek blessings for prosperity, good luck and success in their careers. Worshippers offer marigold and jasmine garlands, burn incense sticks and pray in a clockwise direction to cover different aspects of life like health and wealth. Despite facing tragedies in the past, the shrine remains a significant spiritual icon and a symbol of hope for many. 

 

Smartphone Galaxy S23 Ultra photo by Madeline Poon

 

 

The Erawan Shrine in Bangkok features Lord Brahma (not a Buddha), with four faces symbolizing kindness, mercy, sympathy, and impartiality. Each face represents a different aspect of life, helping believers pray for specific goals: career/success, relationships, wealth, and health. Visitors typically pray clockwise. 

Meaning of the Four Faces (Clockwise starting from front):

• 1st Face (Front): Career, ambition, studies, and professional success.
• 2nd Face (Right/Side): Relationships, family, love, and marriage.
• 3rd Face (Back): Wealth, fortune, and financial flow.
• 4th Face (Left/Side): Health, peace, and personal well-being. 

Key Aspects of the Shrine:

• Purpose: Built in 1956 to ensure the successful completion of the Erawan Hotel project, according to, the Erawan Shrine of the Tourism Authority of Thailand tells the story.
• Worship Ritual: Worshippers usually buy incense and garlands to place at each face. Proper etiquette involves starting from the front and moving clockwise.
• Significance: It is a major pilgrimage site for locals and tourists seeking blessings for success, according to, Erawan Shrine the Matador Network describes the site's history and KKday offers a Vow Guide for prayers.
• Appearance: The statue has eight arms and hands, holding items symbolizing protection, wisdom, and charity.