Culture Focus
Buddhism is central to everyday Thai life. Buddhist influences are clearly visible in Thai lifestyles, mannerisms , traditions, characteristics and all other aspects of Thai culture. For example, social rank, such as being senior or junior, rich or poor, is believed to result from accumulated “karma” (กรรม) or the chain of cause and effect. That is, the more merit you gained throughout your past life, the higher your status will be in your present life. Another example is that Buddhist monk are higher respected and ranked at the top of the Thai social ladder because they endorse Buddhist teachings and serve as representatives of the Lord Buddha.