it is believed that the soul of the departed remains in heaven for forty days before reincarnation. During this period it is seen as possible, using a medium, to contact the departed; after that time the soul will have entered a new body - which may or may not be human. If the deceased led a good life, then they will get a better incarnation next time. If not, then they might come back as a dog, or some lower form of life.
Cripples and handicapped people must have led a sinful previous life – although they are not in themselves seen as being ‘bad’ now. It is meritorious to give money to these people. ‘Making merit’ to ensure a good next life is good practice. A few years ago, a very poor old lady in Bangkok won several million baht in the lottery. She spent the entire amount on a new temple – truly thinking ahead!
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lee
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