The dark side of Buddhism in Thailand
Instead of just blaming criminals who disguise themselves as Buddhist monks, Thais should think why more and more people want to worship monks.
Rather than learn and remember the teachings of Buddhism from venerable monks, a lot of people treat monks, either alive or deceased, as deities of sorts, hoping to receive in return blessings that can solve their problems, protect them or enhance their prosperity. When there is such demand and inclination, clever and business-minded temples build statues of the monk and market a variety of amulets to lure more visitors and donations. Some crooked monks exploit this human weakness to commit crimes.
Among the many statues of monks, there is one in a roadside pavilion near Ramkhamhaeng 2 University, overlooking the bustling traffic. One wonders if, by worshipping the statue, it can give students flying colours in their examinations.
The simple fact is that there are wise and knowledgeable monks, but there is no monk with supernatural powers.
Yingwai Suchaovanich
Bangkok
