Spirit Houses

It is said that to be Thai is to be Buddhist, and Buddhism is certainly major cultural force here in Thailand. But Thais rarely practice pure Buddhism; most blend it with animism. One of the more obvious external signs of animism are the spirit houses found in most residences and places of business. This is where Thais beg, bribe, and barter for their daily needs with the spirits that inhabit their part of the world. The little houses are usually on a pedestal in one corner of the yard, and the homeowners offer food, drink, incense, and various trinkets. Here are some pictures of spirit houses in our neighborhood: