Thailand is perhaps one of the most devout Buddhist countries in the world. Our national religion is “Theravada Buddhism” and is practiced by over 95% of Thais.
According to Thai tradition, a Thai male once he reaches the age of 20 is expected to live as a monk some time during his life. While no-one is compelled to follow this tradition, most Thai males have a sincere desire to do so – even if it is just for a short time. Some, however, will chose to live as a monk their entire life.
Thais regard this custom as an essential step in preparing to be a man, or to be the head of a family. Therefore, most Thai males will enter the monkhood and be ordained before they decide to marry. Living as a monk also provides him with an ideal environment in which to study the Lord Buddha’s teachings and to purify his mind and keep true to his Buddhist beliefs.
Living as a monk also enables him to demonstrate his gratitude to his parents and to bring them greater merit. This is especially significant for his mother who cannot be monk herself. It is also believed that additional merit will be earned if the man undertakes this ‘spiritual journey’ in the three months of the Rains Retreat - sometimes called “Buddhist Lent” (July – October).
The length of time and location may chosen either by the man or his parents. However, the date and time of his ordination ceremony and his final day of being a monk are based on his date of birth and are usually developed by a senior monk or Thai astrologer.