How to worship the "Car Spirit Mother" including which sacred objects to keep in the car for ongoing safety and good luck.
Many people have questions about the belief in the "Car Spirit Mother." Especially during Chinese New Year, what offerings should be made to the car? The Thairath Online news team has sought answers. Although it is a belief, following it causes no harm.
1. What should be offered when worshiping the Car Spirit Mother during Chinese New Year or other Chinese festivals?
The main item for worshiping the Car Spirit Mother is flowers—typically jasmine garlands placed in the car, or marigolds or orchids attached to the front of the car. These should be kept for three days before removal.
The usual prayer states your full name and asks the Car Spirit Mother of this vehicle to protect you for safe driving, smooth travels, and prosperous business, inviting only good things into your life.
Flower offerings can be made monthly or during any festival, depending on your convenience.
Offerings such as pork, chicken, or fruit are also acceptable, but flowers are an indispensable element.
For offerings to the Car Spirit Mother, the most important is flowers. Incense is not necessary. Just use fragrant flowers such as jasmine, rose, champaca, or gardenia.
Beliefs about the Car Spirit Mother Every car has its own Car Spirit Mother who is attached to that specific vehicle. When purchasing a new car, the new car will have its own Car Spirit Mother.
2. Which sacred figure should be kept in the car?
This question arises often. You may invite any Buddha image or deity you respect. However, Luang Pu Thuat is recommended. Regardless of where or which temple he was consecrated at, his merit is widespread. Just recite this chant:
Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato Sammasambuddhassa (3 times)
Namo Bodhisatto Achantimaya Itipakava
Namo Bodhisatto Achantimaya Itipakava
Namo Bodhisatto Achantimaya Itipakava
Then state your full name and request safety and protection.
3. Should the sacred image face outward or inward in the car?
Many wonder about this. In reality, the Buddha image or deity should face outward toward the front of the car to help dispel negative influences and provide protection for safe driving.
For driving, the most important factors are mindfulness and caution. Without these two, no sacred figure can protect us from accidents caused by our own carelessness.