Influence of Patronage of Buddhism By Kings In the Past on Thai Culture

Abstract

This academic article has three objectives. 1. To study the Buddhist expansion under influential patronage by previous Kings in covering the historical events, social and political conditions; 2.  To explore the ways that Buddhism retained unique cultural and religious features through Monarchs’ patronages; 3. To analyze how Buddhism patronages has influenced culturally, materially, monastically and socially to contemporary Thai society. The findings of this article were found that Thai culture has been continuously and steadily changing under the guidance of previous kings ever since Buddhism first spread over Suvarnabhumi, ancient Thailand. The emergence of Buddhism in the Suvarnabhumi Kingdom is attested to by historic buildings and artifacts such as Phra Pathom Chedi. Throughout Thailand's history, an increasing number of Buddhist temples, pagodas, and stupas have been constructed. Tradition, philosophy, and belief are examples of non-material culture that is also transmitted. These cultures are still well-known today, and several have turned into popular tourist destinations. Buddhist customs and ceremonies, like Phapa, Kathina, and Ordination, are still observed in Thailand today. All of these Thai cultures are products of the historical patronage of Buddhism by Thai monarchs.