Phra Pidta Thai Amulets

The Phra Pidta style amulet is a true gem in the world of Buddhism, beloved not only by Thai Buddhists but by followers worldwide. This particular style features a monk sitting in either a full or half-lotus position with his hands covering his eyes and face. 

This enigmatic and intriguing representation of a revered monk from more than 2,550 years ago has garnered significant popularity for its unique style and deep symbolism.

In Thai, Phra Pidta means "closes" or "covers" its eyes, which is precisely what this Buddha amulet portrays. There are different types of Phra Pidta in Thailand, including those with four or six arms, and those fully covered in mantras. However, the closed eyes Buddha remains a favorite among Thai citizens.

The hands covering the eyes on this amulet symbolize a blocking out of the outside world during intense Sammabat meditation, which is a type of jhana level meditation. Such meditation can even cross-over into Abhinna, or supernatural experiences that meditators in the fourth Jhana sometimes attain.

Many people buy these amulets to increase their wealth and business prosperity, but they are also believed to bring good luck and protection from harm of all sorts. In particular, Phra Pidta's closed eyes function to prevent villains and avoid harm from weasels and devils. Wearing this amulet is said to bring unexpected money and success in business.

According to legend, Phra Pidta was an apprentice of Buddha and had accumulated many blessings and virtues in his past lifetimes as a human. He has had many different past lives, including one where he saved other monks from drowning during a flood and another where he built a simple shed for a meditating monk to shield him from the sun.

Phra Pidta's handsome appearance and good karma made him the subject of many rumors and misunderstandings, including a supposed affair with a female worshiper. To avoid such rumors and focus on his practice, he used his supernatural power to change his appearance, but his followers' enthusiasm remained.

Ultimately, he closed his eyes for a long time, ignoring people's words and attitude and focusing entirely on his practice. This resulted in the facial image we see today, with his eyes covered to signify the need to cover up the six roots of sensations and the six gunas, which can keep one in mind the teachings of Buddha.

Wearing a Phra Pidta Buddha amulet can help one's mind to stay focused, whether practicing Buddhism or simply thinking. 

In the mortal world, the posture of Phra Pidta is publicly known for avoiding disasters and dangers, keeping one safe from harm, and preventing villains. Notable monks across Thailand have created powerful Phra Pidta style amulets, making it a widely popular and cherished representation of Buddhist practice and belief.