How to Practice Thai Buddhist Monastery Etiquette
Wear modest clothing.In general, everywhere between the elbows and ankles should be covered at a minimum, with a modest neckline., Don't wear flashy jewellery., Do not climb on, touch, or pose to take pictures with buddha-images, no matter how old...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Wear modest clothing.In general
Showy clothing is not appropriate.
In Thai culture, black is a funeral colour, so dressing in all black is not advised.
Long shirts and long skirts or long trousers in plain colours are recommended, especially in higher-ranking or stricter temples.
Other places may be slightly more relaxed, and you may even see Thais wearing shorts, but modesty is still appreciated. -
Step 2: everywhere between the elbows and ankles should be covered at a minimum
Showy jewelry or other overt displays of wealth are unacceptable. ,, Don't be surprised if your shoes are 'borrowed' at a larger monastery with many entrances...just wait patiently and they will be returned. ,, If a woman must offer something to a monk, do not hand it directly to him.
Put it down somewhere he can pick it up.
An offering cloth may be used for this purpose in Thailand, however, in Thai monasteries outside of Thailand, the use of an offering cloth is not as common. , The person in the highest position is the most respected.
If a monk is seated, try not to stand/walk past with your head above him.
This can be done by shuffling while kneeling if you need to move.
Do not walk in front of people who are bowing.
Do not step on the threshold. , This gesture of respect is called a "wai".
The monk will not return this gesture.
He is not being impolite, just accepting your respect. ,,,,, Don't make a lot of noise or run about. -
Step 3: with a modest neckline.
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Step 4: Don't wear flashy jewellery.
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Step 5: Do not climb on
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Step 6: or pose to take pictures with buddha-images
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Step 7: no matter how old
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Step 8: broken or well-cared for.
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Step 9: Take off your shoes before entering any building.
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Step 10: Do not point your feet at the buddha-image
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Step 11: or at anyone else.
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Step 12: Women must not touch
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Step 13: be alone with
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Step 14: come close to or speak suggestively to monks.
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Step 15: Know where to stand or walk.
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Step 16: Greet monks by pressing your palms together
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Step 17: bowing your head
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Step 18: and moving them to your forehead.
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Step 19: Do not kill any insect
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Step 20: no matter how seemingly insignificant.
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Step 21: Always pour the libation jar or container with two hands.
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Step 22: When offering food
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Step 23: do not touch the edge of the alms-bowl with the spoon.
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Step 24: Do not bring alcohol into the monastery grounds.
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Step 25: Be quiet and respectful.
Detailed Guide
Showy clothing is not appropriate.
In Thai culture, black is a funeral colour, so dressing in all black is not advised.
Long shirts and long skirts or long trousers in plain colours are recommended, especially in higher-ranking or stricter temples.
Other places may be slightly more relaxed, and you may even see Thais wearing shorts, but modesty is still appreciated.
Showy jewelry or other overt displays of wealth are unacceptable. ,, Don't be surprised if your shoes are 'borrowed' at a larger monastery with many entrances...just wait patiently and they will be returned. ,, If a woman must offer something to a monk, do not hand it directly to him.
Put it down somewhere he can pick it up.
An offering cloth may be used for this purpose in Thailand, however, in Thai monasteries outside of Thailand, the use of an offering cloth is not as common. , The person in the highest position is the most respected.
If a monk is seated, try not to stand/walk past with your head above him.
This can be done by shuffling while kneeling if you need to move.
Do not walk in front of people who are bowing.
Do not step on the threshold. , This gesture of respect is called a "wai".
The monk will not return this gesture.
He is not being impolite, just accepting your respect. ,,,,, Don't make a lot of noise or run about.
About the Author
Edward Hart
Experienced content creator specializing in lifestyle guides and tutorials.
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