Buddhism

Buddhism, one of the world’s oldest religions, traces its origins back to the 6th century BCE in what is now modern-day Nepal and India. It was founded by Siddhartha Gautama, later known as the Buddha, whose teachings spread across Asia over centuries, profoundly shaping many cultures and societies. Buddhism’s arrival in Thailand dates back to around the 3rd century BCE, when missionaries from India introduced the faith, gradually intertwining it with local customs. Today, Thailand is predominantly Buddhist (95 % of the population), with the religion deeply embedded in everyday life, art, architecture, and national identity.

The story of the Buddha begins with Siddhartha Gautama, who was born into a royal family and lived a sheltered and luxurious life. Despite this, he was deeply troubled by the suffering he witnessed outside his palace walls. At the age of 29, he renounced his princely life to seek enlightenment and understand the nature of human suffering. After years of meditation and ascetic practices, he achieved enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, becoming the ‘Awakened One‘. He then spent the rest of his life teaching others the path to liberation from suffering, which became the foundation of Buddhism.

At the heart of Buddhism are core beliefs centred around the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. The Four Noble Truths acknowledge the existence of suffering, its cause rooted in craving and attachment, the possibility of ending suffering, and the path guiding to that cessation. The Eightfold Path serves as a practical guide for ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom, aimed at achieving Nirvana – the ultimate state of liberation and peace. Buddhists also emphasise compassion, mindfulness, and meditation as essential practices to cultivate inner harmony and insight into the nature of existence.

Thailand’s religious landscape is dotted with numerous impressive Buddhist temples, or wats, which serve as centres for worship, meditation, and community life. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in กรุงเทพฯ and Wat Pho, home of the famous reclining Buddha statue, are among the most revered. Northern Thailand’s Wat Phra That Doi Suthep near เชียงใหม่ is another iconic pilgrimage site, set on a mountain with panoramic views. These sacred places not only represent spiritual significance but also showcase exquisite Thai art and architecture, attracting both devotees and visitors eager to experience Buddhism’s living heritage.

Buddhism
Thailand