Buddhism is the most popular religion in Thailand, with around 95% of its population adhering to the Theravada tradition. Monks are some of the most highly respected people in Thai society.
They are easily distinguished by their bright orange robes.
Buddhism is such an important part of Thai life that 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, although some choose to remain in monkhood for the rest of their lives.
Young men do this to receive good karma and merit.
Those Thais who are affluent or have money are considered to have very good karma. Those who do not have money are thought to have behaved poorly in a previous life, thus, not having good karma.
Young boys may become novices at any age, but a man cannot become a monk until he reaches the age of twenty.
Many Thais will start their day off by giving offerings to monks who are collecting donations in the streets.
Because monks are so well-respected, Thai people need to interact with them appropriately.
Women are not allowed to touch monks because of their commitment to celibacy. If a woman does happen to touch a monk, he is required to perform an intricate cleansing ceremony at the temple. Women are even expected to avoid them on the street and not give donations to monks directly.
Times are changing everywhere, but there is still a reverence toward the monks and it is still an honour to both give and receive.
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