Thai Government Vows Proactive Efforts to Safeguard Buddhism

[webfact]

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia

 

To bolster Buddhism's standing and integrity in Thailand, the government has pledged a proactive approach in identifying and solving issues affecting the religion. This comes as a shift from reacting to problems only as they surface, which often happens when they capture public attention or complaints arise.

 

Chousak Sirinil, a Minister at the Prime Minister's Office who oversees the National Office of Buddhism, has outlined decisive measures aimed at safeguarding the cherished religion. Crucially, this includes the proactive identification of issues before they escalate.

 

One key area of focus is the prevention of illegal activities on temple grounds. The government aims to deter the use of these sacred spaces for illicit activities such as drug consumption and gambling. This enforcement ensures temples remain holy places rather than misused venues for unlawful behaviour.

 

Furthermore, there will be a crackdown on conduct contravening Buddhist teachings. This includes stronger disciplinary actions against monks engaging in inappropriate behaviour, such as sexual misconduct or improper use of social media. Additionally, any spread of distorted interpretations of Buddhist teachings will face increased scrutiny and suppression.

 

Efforts to protect Buddhism extend to legal measures as well. Impersonators posing as monks, a problem that tarnishes the religion’s image, will face stringent legal repercussions. In contrast, monks demonstrating good behaviour can expect heightened protection against any unjust treatment by others.

To maintain the purity and dignity of those entering the monkhood, stricter vetting processes will be implemented to exclude undesirables. This ensures that only those committed to upholding Buddhist values will join the order.

 

The National Office of Buddhism plans to establish a dedicated centre for receiving complaints, encouraging public engagement in protecting Buddhism's tenets. This opens a channel for citizens to participate actively in safeguarding their spiritual landscape.

 

An additional initiative involves forming a new committee to address land disputes involving temples. Conflicts between Sangha monasteries and state land authorities have become a concern, and this move aims to resolve such issues efficiently.

 

In summary, while the government's commitment to enhancing the protection of Buddhism in Thailand signals hope for preserving its integrity, it also involves a comprehensive and determined effort.

 

Through better oversight and public involvement, Thailand aspires to shield its national religion from contemporary societal pressures and challenges. With the Thai baht giving an edge to these initiatives, equivalent to strengthening community ties that are essential in maintaining Buddhism's hallowed status, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2024-11-28

 

 

[watchcat]

10 minutes ago, webfact said:

solving issues affecting the religion.

 

Such as taking drugs, drinking alcohol, using mobile phones, having sex with minors etc, etc.

[Artisi]

Getting back to the true path of Buddhism in place of the corrupted Thai version would be a good place to start. 

[ikke1959]

Buddhism and monks should be protected... not possible to become a monk if you committed an offence or as a kind of penance for mistakes...as we have seen in the past...Than monks will be respected too and those who misbehave must send away immediately and being punished as a normal civilian. Rules must be followed.. so no gambling, no alcohol or drugs and smoking, no sex, and surely no money....

[OneMoreFarang]

I don't know much about Buddhism, but it seems to me mostly a good philosophy.

I think people only should become monks if they want to learn and live life as a Buddhist. If they don't want that, then just don't join the club.

It seems to me too many Thais become monks because it is expected from them, not because they care.