Buddhism in Thailand: Its Past and Its Present

The book first explains how Buddhism reached Thailand through different historical channels, beginning with early Theravāda influence associated with Aśoka’s missionary tradition and Suvarṇabhūmi, followed by Mahāyāna influence from India and Southeast Asia, Burmese/Pagan influence in northern and central Thailand, and the decisive Lankāvaṃsa tradition from Ceylon. These developments are presented as the historical foundation of Thailand’s predominantly Theravāda Buddhist identity. The later sections describe Buddhism in modern Thailand through the structure of the Sangha, the roles of monks and laypeople, monastic education, Buddhist temples, religious organizations, and Buddhist contributions to Thai culture. The work also highlights India’s spiritual and cultural benevolence to Thailand, especially through religion, education, art, and ethical civilization.