Why do people become monks?

A monk may be a person who decides to dedicate his life to serving all other living beings, or to be an ascetic who voluntarily chooses to leave mainstream society and live his or her life in prayer and contemplation. The concept is ancient and can be seen in many religions and in philosophy.

Does everyone in Thailand have to be a monk?

Every man in Thailand is required to become a monk for a period of time before the age of 20. Though the expected time length is about three months, some will stay as little as a day or two. The majority of monks remain for at least a few weeks. Young men do this in order to receive good karma and merit.

What do monks do in Thailand?

As in most other Theravada nations, Buddhism in Thailand is represented primarily by the presence of Buddhist monks, who serve as officiants on ceremonial occasions, as well as being responsible for preserving and conveying the teachings of the Buddha.

Why is Buddhism so popular in Thailand?

Buddhism is so revered in Thai culture that it is considered a tradition for Thai men to become monks at one point in their lives, even for a short period of time. Temples are considered sacred ground, with it being a taboo in Thailand to do any unwholesome acts on temple property.

Why is a monk called a monk?

A monk is a man who devoted part or all of his life to a religion. The word comes from Ancient Greek, and can be translated as solitary. The monks who live on their own are usually called hermits, those living with other monks do so in monasteries. Nuns living together do so in a convent.

What does it mean to become a monk?

A monk is a person who withdraws from society to concentrate on religious service. Becoming a monk involves study, devotion, and years of training and transitioning. Monastic life is a simple, dedicated life of servitude, which asks the devoted to live a celibate lifestyle and relinquish worldly goods.

Why do Thai become monks?

For many, is the ultimate act of filial piety: demonstrating obedience, respect, gratitude, and devotion to the people who raised him. Men may also become monks to honour relatives who have passed away, with a belief that spirits can be given extra merit.

How many monks are in Thailand?

349,000 monks
Thailand’s National Health Commission Office says there are nearly 349,000 monks in Thailand, and almost half are considered overweight or obese.

What does it mean to be a monk in Thailand?

1 June 2018. View. Becoming a monk is an incredibly important (and extremely common) rite of passage for young Thai men. Ordaining shows devotion to the Buddhist faith and one’s respect to parents, helping individuals gain personal and familial merit within Thai society.

How do you become a monk?

6 steps to becoming a monk at Mount Angel Abbey

1. Step 1: Attend at least one three-day retreat at Mount Angel Abbey to pray on whether monastic life there is your calling.
2. Step 2: Apply to enter the monastery.
3. Step 3: Live at the monastery as a postulant for three to six months.

How did Buddhism arrive in Thailand?

Buddhism was introduced and established by King Asoka in Patalilbutta City during the 3rd century B.C. King Asoka sent monks out of the country to follow and learn about Buddha’s teachings. While other monks were learning the ways of Buddha, two monks stayed behind in Thailand to teach people there.

When to become a Buddhist monk in Thailand?

Buddhist Monk. Men in Thailand are often expected to become a monk at least once and April is a popular month to join in celebrating the Thailand New Year. But any month will work. They may spend their entire lives in the monkhood or they may spend just a few days or a month.

Why do Thai men become monks?

Becoming a monk is often seen a rite of passage in Thai society, with many holding those who have ordained in higher esteem. Taking the cloth ensures that a man gains the respect of a prospective wife’s family, and can make the difference between his acceptance into family and community circles.

Where do Thai monks live?

The latter are young boys who live and often grow up in monasteries and temples throughout Thailand, set to spend their lives devoted to the faith. The vast majority of monks in Thailand only do so temporarily, taking on short term ordinations for any period between a week to three months.

Should Thai men enter monasteries before marriage?

Noom, in his late 30s, unmarried and homosexual, has never ordained. Thai men can enter a monastery at any stage in their life. However, doing so before marriage is often seen as a sign that a man will be a devoted and thoughtful husband, able to guide his wife on the right path.