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Buddhism – The Main Thailand Religion
The history of Buddhism as a religion in Thailand dates back to the 13th century A.D., when it was made the state religion in the Kingdom of Sukkothai. Although there are almost no surviving records of the Thailand religion in the subsequent period up to the 19th century, largely due to the destruction of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya during Burmese invasion, it was during this time that people started looking at the correlation between the community and the King, who was considered the protector of the religion. To this day, the King of Thailand is revered and respected for this reason. ![]() In addition to the four noble truths, Buddhist religion also lays down the cause and effect reaction or karma and a moral code that needs to be followed. These include principles such as every action having an effect, as well as guidelines about how to lead a good life by not taking a life on another living thing, not taking anything that is not freely offered, refraining from overindulgence of the senses, refraining from intoxication and not saying anything that is untrue. These simple tenets and principles have a far reaching effect on Thailand religion.
Buddhism as it exists in Thailand today has the influences of several different principles and beliefs. The influence of the Theravada school of Buddhism is, of course, the most visible. However, influences of Hinduism that came in from Cambodia in earlier times as well as folk customs and rituals can also be seen in the way Thailand people practise Buddhism. Merit making is a common practice that you will come across at temples during festivals and otherwise, stemming from the belief that helping others, making offerings to monks and other such good deeds will earn a lay person credits that will bear fruit later in life or in a subsequent life after rebirth. The teachings and practices of Buddhism have a marked influence on Thailand culture. ![]()
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