Product: Palad Khik Amulet
Origin: Phra Ajarn Boonchu_Wat Phimphawas Nuea
Period: Unknown
Enclose Casing (Color): Stainless Steel and Clear Acrylics Display
Size of Amulet (approx): 10.2 mmW x 32.9 mmH x 9.4 mmT
Size of Case (approx): 19.2 mmW x 47.1 mmH x 15.5 mmT
 
Palad Khik: Thailand’s Sacred Phallic Amulet
The Palad Khik is a Thai animistic amulet shaped like a male phallus, worn for protection, luck, charm, and spiritual energy. Ranging in size from miniature to monumental, these amulets are typically tied around the waist or worn on the body.
 
Rooted in Brahmanism, the Palad Khik embodies the sacred Shiva Lingam—symbol of creation and life force. This belief system, blended into Thai Theravāda Buddhism over centuries, also acknowledges the female counterpart, the Yoni, as a symbol of generative power. The reverence for these symbols reflects ancient cosmological views where all life arises from their union.
 
The tradition of carving Palad Khik amulets came to Thailand through the Khom culture, whose language and script influenced early Thai civilization. Far from conflicting with Buddhist practice, the use of Palad Khik is seen as a continuation of pre-Buddhist spiritual heritage, enriching Thai Buddhism rather than contradicting it.
 
The word Palad—meaning “deputy” or “assistant”—is rooted in the Sanskrit Pprasawa, meaning “one who stands beside.” Thus, the Palad Khik is seen as a spiritual companion to its wearer, often carried close to the body, either visible or tucked beneath the clothes.
 
Famed Thai monks and masters crafted Palad Khik imbued with sacred inscriptions and invocations to Hindu deities. Revered names include Luang Por Hluea, Luang Por Ee, Luang Por Pina, Luang Por Yid, Luang Por Erp, and others. Their works, often inscribed with Khom or Sanskrit scripts like Om or U A Ma, are highly sought after.
 
Despite the rise of modernity, belief in the Palad Khik remains strong. Across Thailand, from city temples to forest hermitages (Samnak Ruesi), people wear these amulets for varied purposes—attracting wealth, love, protection from harm, and spiritual favor. Each master creates Palad Khik with specific magical intents, making them as unique as the maker.
 
In northeastern Thailand (Isan), it’s also called Bak Ben or Khun Phet. Folk traditions persist—such as placing a giant Palad Khik to deter spirits like Phi Mae Hmaay, a female ghost said to target men. These amulets are believed to ward off dark magic and misfortune.
 
Historically, Palad Khik were often carved from Cassia Fistula Linn wood, known for its healing properties. Travelers used them not only as talismans but also as tools—for instance, to stir water to ward off illness. Beyond physical protection, the Palad Khik is believed to bring Metta Mahaniyom (kindness, charisma), Choke Laap (luck and fortune), success in business, and love.
 
Enduring across centuries, the Palad Khik remains a potent symbol of sacred energy, deeply woven into Thai cultural and spiritual identity.