Buddhism is
the national religion of Thailand. About 95% of Thai
citizens are Buddhists. For them it is a way of life.
Buddhism began with the teachings of a man called
Siddhartha Gautama who lived in India about 2,500 years ago.
(The Thai year is currently 2542 which dates from the time
of the Buddha.) The Buddha knew from his own experience that
happiness does not come from great luxury nor from great
hardship. He taught people to follow a Middle Path between
those two extremes. By following this path people could
overcome greed and desire, and the unhappiness they caused,
and lead wiser, more caring lives. Buddhists believe that it
is up to each person to take responsibility for his or
actions and to realise the truth for themselves. If they act
wisely and well in accordance with the Buddha's teachings,
they can live happier and more fulfilled lives. Buddhists do
not believe in an all-powerful God who created the world.
Neither is the Buddha worshiped as a god, but as a human
being who gained enlightenment. Buddhists try to follow his
good example. They make five promises called Precepts:
1. Not to harm or kill any living things
2. Not to steal or take anything that is not freely given
3. To control sexual desire
4. Not to tell lies
5. Not to drink or take drugs
Buddhists
often worship in their own homes at a shrine with a Buddha
image prominently placed. Many also visit temples on
important religious days or their birthdays to chant, make
offerings and listen to sermons.
Links for more Information
Visiting a
Temple - what do people do when they visit a temple.
I was a Novice Monk - a student becomes a novice on the
death of his grandfather.
Daily Routine at a Temple - monks are only allowed to eat
meals in the morning.
Life of a Temple Boy - up-country some boys receive their
schooling at the temple.
