Thai Buddhism: Its Rites and Activities

The book is organized around the lived and institutional dimensions of Thai Buddhism. The opening chapter discusses the general characteristics of Thai Buddhism, including its position in Thailand, the sustaining role of the monastic order, education, public instruction, temple activities, and festivals. The following chapters examine temples as religious and social centers, describing their number, support, buildings, sacred objects, and role in everyday Buddhist life. Subsequent chapters focus on ritual practice in detail. The book presents regular worship services at temples, Uposatha observances, major Buddhist holy days, and temple-centered ceremonies such as Songkran, Khao Pansa, Ok Pansa, Kathin, Loi Krathong, merit-making festivals, and dedications of buildings and images. It also explains monastic rites and duties, including ordination, entering vassa, robe ceremonies, ecclesiastical ranks, and leaving the Sangha. The final chapters cover household rites, funeral ceremonies, state ceremonies, ceremonies for students, and Buddhist organizations in Thai society.