The power of the traditional Thai garland

Garlands are ubiquitous throughout Thailand. Vendors at traffic lights, outside temples or at roadside tables commonly sell Thai Garlands.

Making these garlands became popular in the reign of King Chulalongkorn Rama the Fifth and it has been so ever since.

The ring of Jasmine flowers symbolizes the beauty of the teachings of the Lord Buddha and as the ring of flowers begins to wither and perish this represents the impermanence of all our lives. 

You will find these garlands in many of the cars in which tourists are driven around Thailand and on the Spirit Houses in the front of a great many houses. The garland is placed over the Spirit House in the belief the spirits within will be pleased with their smell of Jasmine.

Upon your arrival at the airport, you may be lucky enough to receive a garland from the staff at the airport. In the car, the garland is said to have the power to prevent accidents! 

(ED: Now I know why Thai people often drive the way they do).