I.
Introduction
Theravada
Buddhism is very important in the lifestyle of Thai people, and it has been a
constant through Thailand’s history.
II. Body
A. Origin
1. Monks
inhabited the region.
2. In the
11th century, Thai people founded their current religion.
B. Political aspects
1. They were
sent to Sri Lanka to restore the ordination of the leadership.
2. Thai
people were displaced by the Mongols.
3. It was
declared as state religion.
A. Around
1260, Theravada was declared the state religion.
B. Through
the Samgha Administration Act of 1902, it acquired its constitutional status as
the official religion.
4. A monk
became king
A. Monk for
27 years
B. Kingdom
during 1851-1878
C. The king
decreed, “All monks should henceforth observance the stricter disciplinary
practices”
5. Religious
Hierarchy.
6. Strong
link between religion (Buddhism) and Politics (Nationalism).
C. Current
1. Monks are the main source of religious
authority.
2. All young
men are required to spend time as monks.
A. During
the three-month rainy-season.
3. National
service / professional career.
4. Parents would want that their sons to
become monks.
III.
Conclusion
Thailand
is an example of how people can preserve their own religion through years
without making big changes, in spite of further development of the country.
References:
Keown,
E. D. (n.d.). "Thailand" A Dictionary of Buddhism. Retrieved July 3,
2012, from Oxford Reference Online. Oxford University Press. Miami Dade
College: http://www.oxfordreference.com.db16.linccweb.org/views/ENTRY.html?subview=Main&entry=t108.e1832
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