Abstract:
This research is a study of myth, ritual and symbols involving in “Nora Rong Krue Ritual” and life of a group of Southern Thai who live around Songkhla Lake. It also includes the study of changes in the performance of Nora in the globalization era. Research methodologies employed are documentary and field work, i.e., participant observation of the “Nora Rong krue” in Songkhla area and indepth-interview of leaders of Nora groups, their members, local intellectuals and the hosts of Nora Rong Krue and their relatives.
The study found that the belief in Nora myth and the rite of ancestral worship are the central focui of Nora Rong Krue. The ritual is to demonstrate people’s respect toward their ancestors who are remembered as “Ta-Yai Nora” (Grand-pa and Grand- ma Nora) who present themselves through the mediums. During the ritual, Southern Thai Identity is observed through the performance and specific symbols emphasizing the power of ancestors and the control of kins and family members. This ritual also provides an occasion of reunion of those with the same believes, and gives them group spirit and identity of the Southern Thai. Finally, globalization has affected the performance of Nora differently. Three categories are identified; a) Nora group with high adaptation and high remodeling, b) Nora group with the combination of the old and the new, and c) the group that maintain the old tradition.
Till the present time Nora Rong Krue has survived and still represents the identity of Southern Thai around Songkhla Lake area. It provides other Noras with their sacred origin and aspiration into the future.