Wat Si Muang

Vientiane · Laos · Church

When Vientiane's city pillar was raised, pregnant Nang Si is said to have leapt into the pit – now she is revered as the city's guardian spirit.

The temple of Wat Si Muang was built in 1563 around Vientiane's city pillar, and the city's most famous sacrifice legend clings to it. As the foundation pit was dug, a Brahmin called for a volunteer to give their life for the city – and the heavily pregnant Nang Si is said to have leapt into the shaft just as the pillar was lowered. In Southeast Asian folk belief the spirit of a pregnant woman is among the most powerful of all, but because Nang Si chose her sacrifice she became a benevolent protector. As Chao Mae Si Muang she is worshipped to this day at a shrine in the temple, where Vientiane residents come to ask for protection and luck.

FAQ

Hvor ligger Wat Si Muang?

Wat Si Muang ligger i Vientiane, Laos.

Oplysningerne bygger på lokal folketro og vidneberetninger.

Image: Mx. Granger / CC0 — Wikimedia Commons