
Looking back in Thai history, we see clearly the close relationship between Buddhism and the Thai nation. The history of the Thai nation is also the history of Buddhism. The Thai nation originated over 2,000 years ago. Also in that same period, Buddhism arrived and has been instrumental important in Thailand's history since then. The Thai nation is now entrenched in Thailand 700 years ago. Also seven centuries ago, it adopted the current form of Buddhism.
Buddhism is the religion remains the state of Thailand. Under the Constitution, the King as a symbol of the nation, yet profound influence on Thai arts, traditions, learning and character of the people. It has shaped his thinking and acting. In short, has become an integral part of Thai life. The charm that has caused Thailand to call the land of smiles, no doubt, comes from the influence of Buddhism in his hometown. Realizing these facts, the rulers of Thailand have taken responsibility for the protection and promotion of Buddhism.
Thailand's rulers have encouraged and supported Buddhism for construction and maintenance of monasteries, monks providing material needs and facilities for the performance of religious duties, sponsoring educational activities, such as Buddhist Councils for review of the Tripitaka and writings translated from Thailand and the reform of the Sangha and the designation Supreme Patriarchs power to govern the Order. Since BE 2446 (1903 CE), whether the State has enacted laws that form the Constitution under which governs Sangha itself.
The Department of Religious Affairs has established in the Ministry of Education to ensure close cooperation between the Order and the Government and to provide a channel through which the Sangha can communicate with government officials and through which the state can promote the welfare of the Sangha.
Four Buddhist holy days are recognized by the Government as nationalholidays, namely Magha Puja Day, Visakha Puja Day, ASALH Bid Day and the Day of Khao Pansa. Almost all public ceremonies of the State and are blessed by the participation and the singing of the senior members of the Order. The people also invite the monks sing Sutra and forms of protection for your blessing and protection in all domestic rituals, such as inaugurations, birthday parties and weddings, and especially for perform funeral rites and memorial services for the benefit of the deceased. Even lustral or consecrated water used in the most auspicious ceremonies. Other forms of animistic beliefs and Brahmanic can also be mixed with these popular Buddhist practices.
In Bangkok, the horizon is pierced by the needle the pagodas and stupas, especially those of Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and the golden hill. "In the rice lands of a traveler is rarely out of sight of Phra Chedi (Cetiya) or "stupa" Above the trees in the village. In sections with smaller populations of the countries are the sacred caves, the "footprints" of Buddha, and on the hill over a rugged and isolated an aging cetiya visible for miles around. 1 Bronze and stone images of Buddha is constantly in unexpected places, while the excavation of land for irrigation, road construction and other purposes. Buddhism has thus become rooted in the soil Thailand, both literally and metaphorically.
[affmage source="ebay" results="90"]Bronze Thai[/affmage]