Wai Kru Ram Muay is a significant aspect of Muay Thai. Before each match, fighters perform this ritual that sets it apart from other martial arts. Similar to pre-fight rituals in sumo, Wai Kru Ram Muay involves deep-rooted traditions and beliefs that aim to prepare the fighter's mind, body, and spirit for the upcoming fight. In this blog post, we'll explore the history and spiritual significance of Wai Kru Ram Muay, and how it's performed in the present day.
Purpose of Wai Kru Ram Muay
Originally, Wai Kru Ram Muay was a ritual performed by Thai soldiers before going into battle to seek protection and blessings from the spirits. Later, the practice became a part of Muay Thai training and was performed by fighters before each match as a way of paying respect to their teachers and ancestors. The ritual also served to help the fighters focus their minds, calm their nerves, and get into the zone for the upcoming fight.
Translation of the term
The wai is a traditional Thai greeting with the palms together as a sign of respect. Khru is the Thai form of the Sanskrit word guru meaning 'teacher'. Ram is the Thai word for dancing in classical style, and muay means 'boxing'. Therefore Wai Kru Ram Muaycan be interpreted as "paying respect to one's teacher through ritual dance." Thai speakers generally shorten it either to wai khru or ram muay.
How to Perform Wai Kru Ram Muay
Wai Kru Ram Muay requires skills and training to perform correctly. At the start of each pre-fight ceremony, the fighters move around the ring in a counter-clockwise direction while holding onto the top rope. At each corner, they pause briefly to say a prayer. This action is believed to be a superstitious practice that "seals" the ring and keeps negative energy or forces out, offering protection during the fight. After this, the fighters perform the "Wai Khru," which involves kneeling, bowing, and making a "Wai" gesture three times to show respect for their parents, teachers, and the Buddha.
The movements are often accompanied by the traditional Thai music, Sarama. The music and movements work in harmony to create an atmosphere of respect, tradition, and excitement. The music is played by a group of musicians, usually consisting of three or four musicians playing instruments such as the Khong Wong Lek (small gongs), the Ching (cymbals), and the Pee (a type of flute).
The music has a distinct rhythm that helps fighters with their timing and movement during the Wai Kru Ram Muay dance and the match. The tempo of the music varies throughout the ritual, with the beginning being slower and the pace gradually picking up as the fighters get more into the zone.
Sarama has a rich history and has been an integral part of Muay Thai culture for centuries. It is said that the music can have a spiritual and psychological impact on the fighters, helping them to focus and stay calm during the fight.
The length of the Wai Kru Ram Muay ritual can vary depending on the fighter and the event. Generally, the ritual lasts between 3 to 5 minutes. However, some fighters may choose to perform a longer version that can last up to 15 minutes or more. The length of the Wai Kru Ram Muay can depend on factors such as the significance of the event, the fighter's level of experience, and personal preference.
Spiritual aspect
Wai Kru Ram Muay is more than just a pre-fight ritual; it is a spiritual practice that connects fighters to their heritage and cultural roots. The dance is believed to help fighters get in the zone, to keep their mind clear and mindful. It also helps spectators to indicate fighters balance and calmness before entering the ring.
Additionally, Wai Kru Ram Muay is thought to help fighters connect with their guardian spirits and ancestors, who are believed to protect them during the fight. The dance is a way for fighters to show respect to their teachers and ancestors, to seek their guidance and blessing, and to honor their legacy.
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