PRABOT INSCRIPTIONS BY DHAMMAJAYA BHIKKHU

Abstract

A very interesting Prabot inscription was discovered at Wat Natau, Nanoi District, Nan Province. It is inscribed with Dhamma Lanna scripts, translated into seven lines of Thai and Pali writing at the bottom and reverse side of the Prabot, dated 1815 (A.D.). The essence of the drawings on the Prabot, drawn by Dhammajaya Bhikkhu and his father, is to signify the boons to be gained from attaining Arahathood in the time of the Buddha to be. Additionally, portraying prays to be born as divine and human beings; to be good at Pra Mettaiya. Even though they may be born into any birth, they wish to attain the three wisdoms. The last benefit is regarding them taking the opportunity to practice Dhamma and following influences of Nibbana.

A unique feature of the inscriptions on this Prabot is that they are only found in Nan Province. A distinctive aspect is the dedication of donors with the high Dhamma which is written in four lines of Pali; different from general Lanna inscriptions. It shows Dhammajaya Bhikkhu’s (the writer) ability in Pali composition as well as his knowledge of Buddhist Dhamma.