A giant of immense power
Sahasadecha was a giant white demon known for his thousand faces and two thousand hands, representing his immense power. He wielded a magical club that could instantly strike dead anyone at whom it was pointed.
His story in the Ramakien
In the Ramakien, Thailand's national epic, Sahasadecha was a loyal ally to the demon king Thotsakan, the Green Giant who stands on the other side of the temple entrance, during the Great War.
Sahasadecha was eventually defeated by Hanuman, the general of the monkey people.
Why this guardian stands here
A protector at the temple entrance
Because Sahasadecha and Thotsakan were both driven by ego and ultimately defeated, they stand together at the temple entrance as a reminder that evil and pride will ultimately succumb to the teachings of the Buddha.
Article credit
Author: Aidan Pao