The Legend of the Seven Wells
รายละเอียด
The ancient site of the Seven Wells is located on a 2-rai (approximately 0.8-acre) plot of land, and there are several legends about its origin, passed down by the elders of the area. Although it is impossible to confirm which version is the most accurate, three main stories are commonly shared:
1. The Legend of the Sea Nomads and the Seven Wells
In the past, a group of sea nomads settled on a small island in the southern Andaman Sea. They were in search of fresh water and discovered seven wells, with water flowing from underground. The first well, being the largest, was called the "Father's Well," and the others were progressively smaller, referred to as the "Mother's Well" and the "Children's Wells." These wells became an important water source for the sea nomads living on the island.
2. The Legend of the Family Digging the Wells
Another version of the legend tells of a sea nomad family that dug a single well for fresh water to sustain them. As the family grew to six members, they found that the water from just one well was no longer sufficient, leading to disagreements. The father called a family meeting, and they agreed that each member should dig their own well nearby. Thus, one well became seven, all in close proximity to each other.
3. The Legend of Digging the Seven Wells
According to another story, when the sea nomads settled on the island, they dug wells to supply water for their daily needs. The first well they dug yielded salty water, so they continued digging. Each new well also produced saltwater until the seventh well, which finally provided fresh water, and they began using this well.
Additionally, there is a story about a man named Abdul Rahman from the village of Talo Sai (Pakarabara) before World War II. He was a trader who engaged in commerce with Penang and was knowledgeable in Islam. He was the first to build a mosque and shared Islamic teachings with the sea nomads living there. As the population grew, the sea nomads began moving away from the island, as they preferred not to live in crowded areas. Later, during the reign of King Rama VII, Abdul Rahman was appointed as a "Khun" (similar to a modern-day village headman) and was granted the surname "Khun Baraburi Raks." He named the area "Tala Ka Tu Ye," which means "Seven Wells" in Malay. The name was later changed to "Ban Bo Jet Luk" (Seven Wells Village) in Thai.
Regardless of which legend is true, the local people believe that the Seven Wells is a sacred place. People often come to make wishes or vows, and it is common for them to fulfill their vows by performing traditional dances, songs, or offering sacrifices such as white chickens and goats to honor the spirits.