Sunday, August 16, 2009

Mythical Serpent Personified In Palm Tree


Photo Courtesy of Thairath

SUKHOTHAI – Villagers were astounded by a batch of coconut palms resembling the Great Naga: a mythical serpent believed to probe the depths of the Mekong River. The tree had grown in odd serpent-like strands; the undulations not typical of an average coconut palm.

The discovery was made on a coconut farm in Sukhothai, where villagers lit candles and incenses and prayed for good fortune.

A reporter went to Sukhothai today to see the Naga tree for himself. At 48 Bann Yom Yai Area 2, he came to a single storey hut raised on stilts at the heart of a coconut farm. The Naga tree was placed on a table for inspection: the feather-leaved palms appeared to be around one meter in length, and freshly green.

Mr. Pradit Boontharaksa 35-years-old, and owner of the farm allegedly discovered the tree on one side of the river near the house; it stood at 20 meters tall and sprouting from the crown were long Naga-like leaves.

Pradit hadn’t paid much attention to the tree at first. But one night, a Naga came to him in his dreams and had a long talk with him about its arrival; there were also other things that Pradit cannot remember clearly. After discussing the dream with his neighbor, he decided to cut down the crown of the palm and bring it home.

The whole village heard about the story and hurried to Pradit’s house where ceremonious praying took place.

Pradit said he will keep the Naga tree at his house as a symbol of fortune. He is expecting a lot of good luck.

Courtesy of Thairath

Writer: Adrian Tse & Chet Chetchotisak

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