Khun Paen
ALSO KNOWN AS:
Khun Phan
ORIGIN:
Thailand
Khun Paen (c. 1491–1529) was a legendary Thai magician and warrior. (Khun is a military rank similar to General. English translation literary sources tend to spell his name Phan but modern Thai amulet vendors generally prefer Paen.) He was a disciple of the renowned monk and magician, Arjarn Kong from whom he learned many magical secrets and rituals including the esoteric use of yantras (magical diagrams incorporating sacred geometry and astrology).
Khun Paen developed incredible magic powers: he could make himself invulnerable or invisible. He transformed tree leaves into angry wasps in order to foil enemies. Perhaps most significantly to many modern devotees, Khun Paen, who was allegedly very handsome, was able to make himself absolutely irresistible to women. (The alleged proof is in the harem he is reputed to have amassed.)
Modern Khun Paen amulets are believed to magically attract and entrance women and thus are among the most sought-after Thai amulets. Allegedly wives sometimes forbid their husbands from wearing them. In addition to being love magnets, Khun Paen amulets also allegedly provide protection and prosperity. Khun Paen’s other claim to fame derives from allegedly being the first to transform a baby into a Guman Thong spirit helper, in this case his own infant son.
SEE ALSO:
Golden Boy; Nang Kwak
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses – Written by : Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.