File photo for reference only

 

Thailand's Sangha Council has reinforced its ban on monks participating in lottery fortune telling, citing violations of religious discipline and the law. The strict reminder follows increased worry over reports of inappropriate conduct by monks, including senior clergy. These actions are seen as eroding faith among followers and contradicting Buddhist teachings.

 

The ban is rooted in historical regulations, with a Sangha Council announcement from September 1, 1955, specifically forbidding monks and novices from predicting lottery numbers or engaging in gambling activities. Violators faced penalties such as disciplinary action or defrocking. The origins date back further to an 1860 decree by King Rama IV, which also prohibited monks from gambling, drinking, attending nightlife venues, and disguising themselves as laypeople.

 

Despite these longstanding rules, some monks continue promoting themselves as mystical figures, promising lucky numbers, and engaging followers in superstition. The Sangha Council warns that such behavior not only misrepresents Buddhist values but may also lead individuals toward gambling addictions.

 

Recent years have seen growing concerns over misconduct within the monkhood, including financial improprieties, relationships with ladyboys, and undisclosed business ventures. These issues have further tarnished the clergy's public image. The Sangha Council's announcement aims to curb such practices and restore trust in religious leaders.

 

Going forward, the council stresses the importance of monks focusing on discipline, meditation, and teaching Dharma. Any monk or novice found engaging in gambling-related activities will face disciplinary measures as an effort to uphold the sanctity of Buddhism and regain public confidence.

 

Key Takeaways

• Thailand's Sangha Council has reinforced its ban on monks predicting lottery numbers.
• The rule dates back to 1860, aimed at preserving monastic integrity.
• Actions against misconduct seek to restore public confidence in the clergy.

 

Related Stories

Taxi Robber Posed as Monk to Fund Online Gambling Habit

Thai Fortune Teller Faces Charges Over War Prediction

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-09-16

 

 

55555, I'm sure everything is going to immediately change for the better. 

About time.  Fortune telling has nothing at all to do with Buddhism.

But the head monk at our village temple (one of the top monks in Chiang Mai) gambles 40,000+ on every lottery - how else is he going to build his retirement nest egg?

59 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

"Thailand's Sangha Council has reinforced its ban on monks"

If it hasn't worked before, what makes them think a  double secret probation (credit: "Animal House") is going to work this time?

Buddhism is a way of living, not a religion. In Thailand real Buddhism doesn't exist.. monks are busy with other things than working on themselves and for the community. See how rich they are, what they do with smoking and drugs and alcohol, and with fortunetelling.. all that has nothing to do with Buddhism. 

14 hours ago, connda said:

About time.  Fortune telling has nothing at all to do with Buddhism.

In Thailand making a fortune seems to be everything to do with Buddhism

Surely such "Holy" people do not need these sorts of reminders, or do they?

18 hours ago, ikke1959 said:

Buddhism is a way of living, not a religion. In Thailand real Buddhism doesn't exist.. monks are busy with other things than working on themselves and for the community. See how rich they are, what they do with smoking and drugs and alcohol, and with fortunetelling.. all that has nothing to do with Buddhism. 

Yes, but there a some "real monks" too. A few white sheep among the black ones. 

5 hours ago, Formaleins said:

Surely such "Holy" people do not need these sorts of reminders, or do they?

Some of them probably claim to have foreseen the ban coming.

22 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

reinforced its ban on monks participating in lottery fortune telling,

 

I wonder who is going to police this?

 

From my experience in rural Lanna, many Thai people rely on lottery blessings and predictions before buying tickets - even for the local mafia lotteries! Visits to various temples were essential.

22 hours ago, Artisi said:

55555, I'm sure everything is going to immediately change for the better. 

What are the Odds? 

On 9/16/2025 at 3:18 AM, connda said:

About time.  Fortune telling has nothing at all to do with Buddhism.

True, but everything to do with Thai superstition which predates Buddhism and entrenched in Thai/ Asian culture.

On 9/16/2025 at 10:37 AM, snoop1130 said:

 

Thailand's Sangha Council has reinforced its ban on monks participating in lottery fortune telling,

 

About time, why did they abolished the ban .