How to Pray at Erawan Shrine (Phra Phrom) Guide
Located in the heart of Bangkok, the Erawan Shrine, or Phra Phrom, is dedicated to Brahma, the Hindu god of creation. It was built in 1956 to bring good luck during the construction of Erawan Hotel and has since then turned into a significant Bangkok landmark. Countless visitors come every day seeking blessings, peace, and good luck. Let me show you step by step how to pray at Erawan Shrine.
Getting There
- Address: 494 Ratchadamri Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- BTS: Take the BTS Skytrain to Chit Lom Station, then walk about 5 minutes from Exit 2.
- Taxi: Simply tell the driver to go to Erawan Shrine (Phra Phrom); most drivers in Bangkok know this location.
How to Pray at Erawan Shrine: Step-by-Step
1. Understand Each Face’s Blessings
Each of the four faces of Phra Phrom (the deity at Erawan Shrine) represents a different area of blessings. Before you start, understand the type of blessings each face is associated with, so you know which “office” you are visiting for your wishes.
2. Pray in a Clockwise Direction
This is essential! Be sure to pray in a clockwise order, starting from the front face.
3.No Burning or Meat Offerings
Do not burn any offerings, and avoid offering meat. Instead, you can offer sweets, rice, fresh flowers, or fruits.
4. Pray at Every Face
Make sure to pray at each of the four faces. You can either make a different wish at each face or repeat the same wish each time.
5. Dress Modestly
Wear respectful clothing, avoiding revealing outfits to show respect in the shrine.
The Most Important Step
When making a wish, be very specific about who you are, where you are from, and what exactly you wish for. Mention how you hope it will come true by when, and how you plan to fulfill your promise if your wish is granted.
Example: “I am Who from Where. I wish to be promoted to department manager within three months through an internal competition. If my wish comes true, I will return to the shrine and fulfill my vow.”
Guidelines for Fulfilling Your Vow at Erawan Shrine
Once your wish at Erawan Shrine comes true, it’s essential to fulfill your promise by fulfilling your vow. Here’s how to do it respectfully:
Ways to Fulfill Your Vow
1. Stay True to Your Promise: Fulfill your vow exactly as you pledged when making your wish. Keep your word—this sincerity is key.
2. Separate Fulfillment for Different Wishes: If you made separate wishes at each face, fulfill each vow individually to honor each aspect of your prayer.
3. Make a New Wish After Fulfillment: Once you’ve completed your vow, you may make a new wish.
4. Delegating Your Vow: Someone else can fulfill your vow on your behalf if needed. Additionally, you can fulfill it at any other shrine with a four-faced deity, as long as it represents Phra Phrom.
