The article will explore how Thai religious teachings have shaped erotic morality, sexual behavior, and relational negotiation. It is widely known that religion plays an important role in influencing cultural values, including those related to sexuality and intimacy. This article seeks to examine how Thai religious teachings have influenced these aspects of human life and why they are essential for understanding Thai culture. In particular, it will focus on Buddhist and Hindu influences on the subject matter.
Buddhism is one of the most prominent religions in Thailand, and its principles have had significant impacts on the country's moral code. The Buddha taught that desire was one of the three roots of suffering, and he encouraged his followers to avoid it as much as possible. This teaching has been interpreted to mean that sexual activity should be limited and controlled, which can lead to feelings of guilt or shame when engaging in it.
Some Buddhists believe that sex within marriage is acceptable if it does not interfere with spiritual practice.
Buddhism emphasizes moderation and detachment from worldly pleasures, which may also influence attitudes towards sex and relationships.
Hinduism is another major religion in Thailand, and its teachings have influenced the country's approach to sexual morality. The Bhagavad Gita, a central text of Hinduism, states that sexual pleasure should be enjoyed but not pursued excessively. This attitude has led to a more relaxed view of sex than in other cultures, where sexual promiscuity or infidelity is seen as immoral.
Hinduism emphasizes the importance of self-control and responsibility in matters of love and relationships.
The combination of these two religions has created a unique set of values regarding erotic behavior in Thailand. It is considered appropriate to save physical intimacy for marriage and to prioritize family over individual desires. Relationships are often arranged between couples, and monogamy is expected. At the same time, there is no taboo against premarital sex, and extramarital affairs are relatively common. In addition, many Thai people believe that casual sex is acceptable as long as it doesn't involve emotional attachment.
Thai religious beliefs encourage restraint and balance in matters of sexuality while allowing room for personal choice.
How do Thai religious teachings shape erotic morality, sexual behavior, and relational negotiation?
According to anthropologist David McNeill (1987), Thai Buddhism's most fundamental ethical principle is that of kamma, which refers to actions and their consequences. Kamma implies that every action has an effect on one's future life, both in this world and beyond. It is believed that engaging in immoral acts may cause negative effects in this lifetime or afterlife. As such, Thais tend to avoid any form of moral transgression as much as possible.