Discover Thailand (16): The Thai culture
Before we discuss Thai culture, it is good to define the concept of culture. Culture refers to the entire society in which people live. This includes the way people think, feel and act, as well as the traditions, values, norms, symbols and rituals they share. Culture can also refer to specific aspects of society such as art, literature, music, religion, and language.
Discover Thailand (11): Animism (belief in ghosts)
Animism is an ancient form of religion that sees nature as animate and sentient. It is a belief that every living thing has a soul. This means that even things like trees, rivers and mountains have a soul according to the animist tradition. These souls are seen as guardian spirits who help to make life run in harmony.
Thailand photo of the day: Phra Rahu, a demon god
Phra Rahu is worshiped in many temples in Thailand, the most famous being the Wat Srisathhong in Nakhon Pathom province. Phra Rahu used to be a demon god who, according to the Thais, took the form of a snake, nowadays he takes on a more demonic human form at temples. Phra Rahu is colored black, with only a torso and a head. He holds a golden sphere in front of his mouth, the golden sphere should represent the sun.
