Siam Gold: The Sword of Victory
We tell about Thailand's most prominent military regalia.
“The Sword of Victory” of Thailand embodies ultimate power, strength and indestructibility of the reigning monarch.
History
The sword itself appears to be shrouded in myth upon myth, legend upon legend.
Ever since 1784, tales are still told of the time it was found by fishermen in the waters of Cambodian river Tonle Sap.
Initially, the sword was given as a gift to Apai Pubet. The future young ruler of Cambodia later re-gifted it to a much superior feudal lord King Rama I of Thailand.
"The Sword of Victory" was immensely powerful. Blade’s destructive force struck the city of Bangkok the moment it arrived. Seven strikes of lightning (strike after strike) hit an entire area, toppling dozens of buildings and damaging the central gates of the Grand Palace.
Meaning
"Phra Saeng Khan Chaiyasi" literally means “the wisdom of the king” from Siamese. It shapes the fundamental principle of the supreme virtue, which rightly emphasizes that the wise king must rule over his land and people with justice and wisdom.
Characteristics
“The Sword of Victory” weighs 1,9 kg.
The hilt of the sword has a length of 25,4 cm, the blade measures 64,5 cm.
When the sword is placed in the scabbard, it’s total length equals to 101 cm.
The sword is gold-plated in between its handle and the blade. Its decor represents an archaic source of Hindu mythology: the gold figurine of godlike Vishnu who rides the giant bird Garuda, which is also illustrated on the national emblem of Indonesia. In addition to that, a gold scabbard gallantly enchased with precious stones was made at the request of Rama I.
Ritualistic traditions of the “Sword of Victory” are well preserved. During the coronation ceremony, the Brahmin hands the sword to the monarch. The monarch should strap the sword onto his belt prior to taking an oath of allegiance.
The pedestal for the “Sword of Victory” is exhibited on Ratchadamnoen Avenue in Bangkok since 2006, when it was first showcased to the public, honoring the 60th anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej's ascension to the throne.
