camerata Posted April 25, 2013 Share Posted April 25, 2013 Every now and then it's fun to see what the mainstream press is saying about Buddhism. This is a Daily Mail story about how two young Karen boys become "Buddhist monks." Basically it's just an excuse to print some nice photos. From boys to monks: Crowned with flowers, and dripping in gold,spectacular photo-diary follows the Buddhists who go from carefreechildren to shaven-headed monks in just a day It is one of the most momentousoccasions in these young boys' lives - and one of the most importantduties their parents are to carry out for them.Decked head to toe in vibrant costume and made up with lavish jewelleryand make-up, these two boys are about to be ordained as Buddhist monks.Under the Theravada form of Buddhism, widely practised in Thailand and SriLanka, the children are ordained during initiation ceremonies known asthe 'Going Forth'. Afterwards they become immersed in Buddhistteachings, potentially for the rest of their lives. Full story 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
beautifulthailand99 Posted May 12, 2013 Share Posted May 12, 2013 Don't seem to have much choice in this and probably little understanding - more cultural than spiriitual. Good old 'magic' Buddhism. Nice photos though. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fabianfred Posted May 13, 2013 Share Posted May 13, 2013 Actually...I would say that the Shan and Karen boys know more about it than their Thai cousins. The poorer a people are materially the more they tend to practice spirituality. I know many Shan kids that have been taught meditation by their parents,and do it every night before bed....unlike many Thai monks who often cannot be bothered anymore. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
beautifulthailand99 Posted May 13, 2013 Share Posted May 13, 2013 Thanks for your insight fabianfred - I don't much about this area. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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