The Sandalwood Bodhisattva of Compassion
Join Nai Mu, a leading expert in spiritual journeys from God’s City on Ticy City, as we explore one of Bangkok’s most sacred sites—the Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva Shrine at Thian Fah Foundation Hospital. Situated at the gateway to Chinatown (Yaowarat), this revered shrine houses an extraordinary sandalwood statue of Avalokiteśvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Carved from a single piece of wood and gilded in gold, this Tang Dynasty-style masterpiece attracts thousands of devotees who offer flowers, fruits, and vegetarian sweets in devotion.
A Historic Hospital Built on Charity
Founded in 1903, Thian Fah Foundation Hospital holds the distinction of being Thailand’s first charitable hospital. It was established by six influential Chinese-Thai businessmen representing five major dialect groups: Teochew, Hakka, Cantonese, Hokkien, and Hainanese. Originally named “Thian Hua Hui Yi Hospital,” its mission was to provide free medical care, integrating traditional Chinese medicine with modern healthcare.
Recognized as a foundation in 1931, the hospital gained royal recognition when King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII) and Prince Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) visited in 1946. Over time, it has evolved into a modern medical institution while preserving its spiritual heritage.
The Mysterious Journey of the Avalokiteśvara Statue
Believed to be over 500 years old, the Avalokiteśvara statue was crafted during the Song Dynasty before making its way to Thailand. In the mid-20th century, Chulin Lamsam, a prominent businessman, purchased it from Chonburi for 200,000 baht. As the statue was transported to Bangkok, witnesses reported seeing a mystical royal parasol-shaped mist above it.
Shortly after bringing the statue home, Chulin and his family experienced a series of unusual dreams and unexplained misfortunes. Recognizing its profound spiritual energy, he chose to donate it to Thian Fah Foundation Hospital in 1960, where it has remained a revered object of worship ever since.
Auspicious Days to Worship Avalokiteśvara
Devotees gather in large numbers on these significant dates in the Chinese lunar calendar:
- Birthday: 19th day of the 2nd lunar month (March 18, 2025)
- Ordination Day: 19th day of the 9th lunar month
- Enlightenment Day: 19th day of the 6th lunar month
Sacred Shrines at Thian Fah Foundation Hospital
In addition to the Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva Shrine, the hospital is home to several other revered deities:
- Tee Kong (Heaven and Earth God)
- Cai Shen Ye (God of Wealth)
- Hua Tuo (Divine Physician)
- Tai Sui Ye (Guardian of Fate)
- Ye Huang (Medicine King Bodhisattva)
- Fude Zhengshen (Earth God and Goddess – Grandfather and Grandmother)
A Center of Worship, Healing, and Charity
Thian Fah Foundation Hospital remains committed to its dual mission of compassionate healthcare and spiritual devotion. Visitors can pray, make merit, and contribute to free medical services for those in need. Whether you seek blessings or wish to support a charitable cause, this revered sanctuary is a vital part of Yaowarat’s cultural and spiritual identity.
Location: Thian Fah Foundation Hospital, Yaowarat Road, Bangkok
Opening Hours: Daily from 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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