ON BUDDHIST MONKS AND NUNS

Buddhist monks and nuns are highly regarded religious figures in Thailand. However, the Buddhist nuns, the white-robed, skin-head females you see more often in the temples than in the streets, have fewer rules to observe than the saffron-clad monks seen early mornings doing their daily alms rounds.

As you might have observed, monks are often seen bare-footed. This is a part of their living in utmost humility, among the numer- ous other disciplines expected of them. Here are a few more important things to know and remember in relation to the Buddhist monks.

DO KNOW? that Thais deeply respect their monks no matter how young or old they are. Although the more senior ones are observ- ably given slightly more reverence. No matter, foreigners, Buddhist or not, should accord the same re- spect to the monks as you would to everything the religion represents.

DO NOT FORGET that monks must never have physical contact with any woman. Receiving anything from a woman, sitting beside her, touching her or being touched by her are taboo. Monks may receive offers from a woman but these should be handed over through a man. Or, he may extend part of his robe and she can place on it whatever she wants to give. Trains, airport lounges, boats and buses have signs indicating that a seat is reserved for a monk so it should be given-up once he boards.

DO NOTE that you can do a wai” gesture when you happen to meet or talk with a monk. In fact, monks are commonly the only other persons given the highest “wai” (hands extending to the head) next to the members of the royal family. They won’t “wai” back although they appreciate your respectful gesture. Wai-ing” back is just not a part of the hundreds of behavioral precepts that they are required to follow.

DO NOT FORGET to always keep the level of your head lower than the monks’ to show reverence. As you may observe, they are even elevated in platforms in temples or any gatherings in the community. Even if after seating in a ground lower and your height is still over him, it doesn’t matter, as the refer- ence is to his elevation and your ground.