THAI LERSI a.k.a HERMIT
Thai Lersi
What is Lersi?
In Thailand, there is a legend of a Highly Developed Beings that has been told in different Mythologies and Cultures around the world. It is called the “Pu Wised”, or Lersi, Ruesi, Arahants or Yogis, it also has various legends.
a.k.a thai Hermit / Ruesi ...
Thai Lersi
The Buddha is described in some ancient texts as a Lersi and has received some teachings from a Lersi master. Therefore, it is said that the tradition of Lersi is linked to the Buddhist traditions.
linked.
Thai Lersi
different classifications.
But still same?
What are the differentiating qualities of Thai Lersi and are they all the same?
Thai Lersi have many different types and classifications and are believed to exist at different levels or worlds. The most Lersi headed animals are classified as "Lersi Chan Taep," meaning "Angelic" or "Divine" Lersi level hermit. They believed to have mastered numerous spiritual mind powers.
There are 4 major Lersi groups, in which each of the four forms has different qualities. The 4 major groups are, Racha, Prohm, Taep and Maha. Racha is the first and lowest class who do not possess any special abilities, they only attempt to open one’s mind. Prohm may go through a rebirth as a Prahma who are angelic beings of higher heavenly realms. Taep lersi have practiced their vows diligently in order to obtain enough merit to receive supernatural powers and become inhumanly strong. Maha lersi also have powers however they also have incredible knowledge & intelligence and are also familiar with powerful magical spells.
Thai Lersi
Said to have possessed various powers, such as Knowledge of Herbal medicines, minerals, magical invocations, and supernatural abilities such as Levitation, Teleportation, Alchemy, and Mind Reading. They used secret methods which are passed down from masters & practiced meditative skills & mental development in a cave, forest, or mountain.
ability.
Thai Lersi
different terms.
What are the different terms of lersi in Thai culture?
“Hermit” is associated with the thought of a secretive, mysterious hermit-like person who lives a solitary existence and dwells in a cave, forest or in mountains.
“Ruesi” is “Seer”, meaning is able to see things that normal humans cannot perceive, such as vision of the three times (Past, Present & Future)
“Yogis”, a person who is proficient in yoga.
Thai Lersi
What is the significance of Lersi?
It seems the lersi have become an integral part of Thai Hindu-Buddhist beliefs today, and as such they play an indispensable role in ritual performance. Traditionally, lersis were recluses that also were spiritual mediums and important meditatos in the royal court of Thailand whereas now they are heavily involved in social matters.
significance.
Thai Lersi
influence.
What is their influence on Thai medicine & yoga?
Unknown to many, Thailand has its own version of yoga-like stretches known as ruesri dat ton or "the stretching of the hermit." These exercises are similar to Hatha Yoga, and there is an obvious link between the two. A number of schools in the country are still teaching this little-known gem of Traditional Thai Medicine although many locals are unfamiliar with it themselves. Traditionally a Thai Yoga master, called a ruesri or rishi, was the same as an ascetic, hermit, seer, etc. who practiced meditation and developed occult powers along the path to spiritual realization. A ruesri is portrayed as an hermit wearing the fur of a tiger, symbolizing his success and his dominance. Some have suggested that Thai massage originated in individual yoga practice such as Ruesri Dat Ton and Hatha Yoga. Some massage positions do resemble yoga poses.
Thai Lersi
comparison.
How do modern Lersi hermits today compare to ancient Lersi hermits?
From communing with forest spirits to whipping up love potions, Thailand’s cave-dwelling hermits once conducted their supernatural endeavours with just ancient magic and ritual as their guide. But today’s sorcerers are more connected than ever. Armed with smart phones, Facebook profiles and business-savvy, the new crop of mystics are harnessing tech to cultivate followings across Asia. While the kingdom is overwhelmingly Buddhist, there is still widespread belief in animistic spirits and ghosts. Using Facebook and LINE to advertise the services, they have tapped a deep well of overseas intrigue, especially among ethnic Chinese, for rituals and charms aimed at boosting business prospects and mending relationship woes. One of the sorcerers now has hundreds of followers in places such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, Malaysia and Singapore, and travels far and wide to offer spiritual solace.