สำนักราชบัณฑิตยสภา

The Journal of the Royal Institute of Thailand Volume II - 2010 Peace and Non-Violence in Phra Aphai Mani, A Poetic Tale by Sunthon Phu 34 violence. When Utsaren and his father, King of Lanka, come to attack the Kingdom of Phaluek, Utsaren is captured. Wali, a clever woman commander, feels that if Phra Aphai Mani sets him free, the next battle will be even bigger. She therefore taunts Utsaren until he dies of rage, coughing blood. As a result, Wali is killed by Utsaren’s ghost. Utsaren’s younger sister Laweng Wanla seeks revenge for her father and brother. Thus in spite of Utsaren’ s death, the war becomes bigger and costs more and more lives. Phra Aphai Mani has to use his pipe music to reduce the violence and deaths caused by so many wars. Finally, he takes his troops to attack Lanka, hoping to put an end to the war. Yet the war gets bigger and causes more casualties. When the troops of the two sides fight fiercely, Phra Aphai Mani plays his pipe to stop the carnage. (See Picture IV) “Phra Aphai struck up a sentimental air, Diverting all to the fond memory of their lands. ‘We left home as birds did to their nests. People at home must look forward to our return. At dusk, beaten gongs will make men weep, And lament with keen nostalgia. Moon and stars float in the late night sky, And dewdrops cool the night, dampening the air.” ( Phra Aphai Mani Part V, 2008, 175-176) However, the power of music is not enough. The great guru has to set up the ritual to invite the holy hermit of the Crystal Isle to preach to the warring sides. “Be not angry, jealous and vengeful, Think that it’ s due to your past karma. You reap what you have sown. Blame none but yourselves for your deeds” One thing is that we lack religion. The whole world is suffering now. To end the heat of war and bring peace, We must be friends and be compassionate.” ( Phra Aphai Mani , 1994, 884, not yet published in English)