Temple of the Emerald Buddha : reflections of the complexity of the religious system in Thai society

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to discuss and illustrate the complexity of Thai religion in art, architecture, rituals and people's behavior by using the Temple of the Emerald Buddha as a case study. Thailand is perceived to be a Buddhist country and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the most important Royal and National temple. should basically reflect Buddhist elements. It is interesting to note that one can find religious complexity comprising Buddhism, linduism and animism co-existing or syncretized in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in terms of art, architecture, rituals and people's behavior It was found that in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Hindu-Buddhist cosmology determined the art and form of the structures. In terms of rituals one could see three religious elements co-existing or syncretized in some rituals. Concerning people's behavior, Buddhist activities are clearly observed in this Temple, since people all over Thailand come to pay respect to the image of the Emerald Buddha and also to make merit on wan phra. However people's animistic behaviors can be viewed in their way of worshipping the Emerald Buddha since many people ask for something (bon) from the Emerald Buddha thus treating the Emerald Buddha as a sacred spirit. It is interesting to note that tive people's animistic views and behaviors are always associated with Buddhism The research findings suggest that there are structural-functional relationships: hierarchy, complementarity, linkage and co-existence between Buddhism, Hinduism and animism in the Thai religious system.