Tag Archives: Thai
The Many Sub-Languages of Thai Posted by palmisano on Feb 10, 2014
Thai is not just one language universally spoken in Thailand, but in fact there are many regional and local dialects, and yet more special manners of speaking given the situation. This article will list all the forms of Thai …
Introduction to Thai Politics, in 700 words Posted by palmisano on Dec 1, 2013
The story of modern Thai politics starts with the Siamese revolution of 1932, where republicans overthrew the monarchy and installed Thailands very first democracy. But although losing absolute power, the monarchy has always retained powerful supporters. Pridi Panomyong, the man who led the first uprising and founder of Thammasat University. He was exiled to France…
The Thai word for ‘to be’ Posted by palmisano on Nov 30, 2013
The Thai word เป็น bpenM is one of the most common words you’ll use in the language, and so is imperative that you understand it early on. It roughly translates to mean ‘to be’, similar to the Spanish word ‘ser’ for those who speak Spanish. เป็น describes a state of being, saying ‘this is the…
How to Become a Thai Monk: First Impressions and Daily Schedule, part 2 Posted by palmisano on Nov 29, 2013
[This article is a continuation of a series of articles on becoming a Thai Buddhist monk.] Reading Books While it wasn’t required of me, I felt I should try to study Buddhist teachings while I’m a monk. I read various literature and watched documentaries on Youtube. The book I really recommend is “Handbook for…
How to Become a Thai Monk: First Impressions and Daily Schedule, part 1 Posted by palmisano on Nov 27, 2013
I had internally imagined what life as a monk would be like long before becoming one. And after becoming one, my expectations were mostly the same. As you read this, keep in mind that monk life in the US is much more comfortable than in Thailand. The rules are a bit different, too, for practical…
How to Become a Thai Monk: Preparation, part 3 Posted by palmisano on Oct 28, 2013
Preparing for งานบวช ngaan1 buad2 is not much different from preparing for a wedding. It is an entire family affair where everyone gets involved and helps out. You need to have ‘rented’ a temple, donations for monks, a full meal ready for all the guests, musical instruments, flowers…
How to Become a Thai Monk: Preparation, part 2 Posted by palmisano on Oct 26, 2013
Beyond memorizing the chanting you also should practice kneeling like a monk. While most Thais have no problem with it, the larger heavier framed farang can find it painful. I certainly did. As a monk, you’ll be expected to kneel one to two hours per day. For me, the kneeling position…