Some interesting things I’m learning about Buddhism in Thailand:
- Monks are not ordained for life.
- Many times they will do it just for the rainy season
- If they remain past that, it is usually from 1-3 years.
- Thai are from the most conservative and fundamental school of the 3 branches of Buddhism - the Theravada school
- It became the state religion in the 13th century, but isnt any more
- The king of Thailand is considered to be the protector of the religion
- Buddhism in Thailand is not pure Buddhism, it is very mixed with
- 3 major influences of Thai Buddhism are:
- Traditional conservative Buddhism
- Hindu beliefs
- Folk religion – appeasing local spirits
- Monks get free public transportation, special seating sections
- They can’t hold office or vote while a monk
- Monks begin their training when they are 8 in a temple school
- This is where most of Thailand learns to read and write
- These schools were the main education up until the last 50 years or so when the government began to provide education.
- Women can’t be monks
- Impersonating a monk is illegal.
More about missions around the world at bcwe.org
No comments:
Post a Comment