Rishis in Southeast Asia

In Southeast Asia — particularly in Thailand — the Indian concept of the ṛṣi (a seer or enlightened sage) evolved into the figure of the Ruesi (Thai: ฤๅษี), a forest-dwelling ascetic associated with supernatural wisdom, healing, meditation, and traditional spiritual practices.[1] These figures are often depicted with topknots, tiger-skin robes, and long beards, and are commonly found in amulets, murals, and rituals across Thai Buddhist and animist traditions.

Role and significance in Thai culture

Ruesis are respected as spiritual mentors and healers. They are believed to reside in remote forests, mountains, or caves, living ascetically and engaging in deep meditation and esoteric practices. Their spiritual authority stems from both Buddhist and pre-Buddhist traditions.[2] The Thai royal court, traditional healers, and even performing arts lineages historically honored Ruesis for their perceived connection to divine wisdom and protective magic.

In Buddhist temples like Wat Pho in Bangkok, statues of Ruesi performing stretching and breathing poses illustrate their contribution to the Thai healing art of Ruesi Dat Ton ("Hermit’s Self-Stretching"), which combines yoga-like postures with breath control and meditation.[3]

The 108 Ruesi

The "108 Ruesi" are mythologized ascetics who symbolize the vast esoteric knowledge of the ancient world. The number 108 is significant in many Eastern religions, including Buddhism, and is not necessarily literal. Devotees often honor them collectively in rituals and temple murals.[4] In some traditions, each of the 108 Ruesi represents a different domain of knowledge or healing practice, such as herbal medicine, astrology, or protective chanting.

Ritual use and influence

Ruesi worship is central to the Khrop khru ceremony, a teacher-honoring ritual performed in Thai traditional arts and spiritual practices. During this ritual, spiritual mediums may enter trances believed to be possessions by the spirits of Ruesis. Devotees chant Kata Bucha (devotional incantations) to pay respect to the Ruesi, often seeking blessings for protection, health, fortune, and guidance.[5]

Amulets, masks, and statues representing Ruesis are worn or kept in homes and businesses for spiritual protection. These objects are particularly popular among traditional healers, martial artists, and performers.[6]

Legendary figures

One of the most revered Ruesis in Northern Thailand (formerly Lanna) is Ruesi Vasuthep, who is believed to have established the ancient city of Hariphunchai (modern Lamphun) and whose name is associated with Doi Suthep mountain in Chiang Mai. Ruesi Sukantasu is another legendary figure said to have collaborated with Vasuthep in spreading Buddhism and esoteric wisdom across the region.

Rishis and Ruesis: cultural transmission

The transformation of the Indian ṛṣi into the Southeast Asian ruesi illustrates the syncretic spiritual landscape of the region. While rooted in Vedic and Buddhist ideals, the Thai Ruesi embodies local animist beliefs, warrior-ascetic symbolism, and healing traditions.[2]

References

  1. ^ The Reusi Hermits from Thailand, Rishis and Lersis – TraditionalBodywork.com
  2. ^ a b Holy Hermit Healers – Asian Geographic
  3. ^ History of the Rue-Si Dat Ton Hermit Statues – TraditionalBodywork.com
  4. ^ The 108 Ruesi – Naresuan Thai Amulet Blog
  5. ^ Katas for Ruesi – ThailandAmulet.net
  6. ^ Ruesi Amulets – ThailandAmulet.net
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