Visions and Representations in Testimonies of People of Ayutthaya

Abstract

This article aims to examine the patterns of visions and their representations in the Testimonies of the People of Ayutthaya, using a conceptual framework based on the patterns of visions and their representations in Thai literature. The findings reveal that a good vision is an omen predicting a fortunate event in the future, whereas a bad vision is an omen foretelling misfortune. In terms of the patterns of visions, two types are identified: (1) the real pattern, which can be perceived through two sensory channels—visual perception (seeing) and auditory perception (hearing), and (2) the dream pattern, where visions occur in dreams. Regarding representations, three types of representations are associated with good visions: auspicious natural phenomena, unharmed humans, and deities or sacred objects. In contrast, bad visions are represented by inauspicious animals, inauspicious natural phenomena, and damaged auspicious objects. Notably, the representation of a good vision may involve multiple symbolic images within a single event to reinforce the certainty of an auspicious future occurrence.