A stream of belief in Thai society is undergoing an interesting transformation as the younger generation, known as "Gen Z" (those born after 2010), is beginning to shift their perspective on making merit and paying respects to sacred things. Rather than clinging to materialism or seeking wealth and status as in the past, they are turning toward asking for wisdom, understanding in life, and creating merit through increased giving.
This concept reflects a blend of traditional beliefs with new interpretations suited to the modern era. The younger generation has not abandoned paying respects to the Buddha and sacred things, but has adjusted their way of thinking about seeking blessings. Instead of asking for wealth and high status, they now ask for wisdom in conducting their lives, seek understanding of Buddhist principles, and ask for encouragement in doing good deeds.
The Foundation of Seeking Blessings in Thai Culture
Seeking blessings has long been part of the fundamental beliefs in Thai society, stemming from a blend of Buddhism, Hinduism, and local beliefs. According to Buddhist principles, chanting and paying respect to the Buddha is an act of merit-making, a reminder of the virtues of the Triple Gem, and a means of cultivating a virtuous mind.
In the past, Thai people commonly sought blessings regarding wealth and status, prosperity, good health, or love and relationships, which reflected humanity's basic needs in each era. However, according to Buddhist teachings, true blessing-seeking should aim at things that lead to spiritual development, not merely worldly happiness.
Wisdom in Thai Astrology
In Thai astrology, having "wisdom" or intellect is considered a good destiny. Ancient astrologers would often look at the position of Mercury in a natal chart, since Mercury is the planet of wisdom, communication, and analytical thinking. People with Mercury in a good position tend to be quick-witted, think systematically, and solve problems well.
Furthermore, Thai astrological texts also mention "merit and virtue," which is the accumulated result of doing good in the past. People with great merit and virtue typically have smooth lives, receive help from others, and have good opportunities come their way. Merit and virtue can be built through giving, observing precepts, and meditation, which aligns with the new Gen Z concept that emphasizes giving and creating goodness.
Mindful Blessing-Seeking
According to Buddhist belief, seeking blessings should be done with a pure and mindful heart, not with blind hope. Many respected monks have taught that good worship should begin with calming the mind, remembering the virtues of the Triple Gem, and setting one's intention toward goodness without harming others.
Seeking wisdom is therefore a blessing-seeking that accords with Buddhist principles, as wisdom leads to sustainable solutions to life's problems, unlike seeking wealth and status which may come and go, or may even bring suffering if not managed with wisdom.
Giving is Receiving
Buddhist teachings state that "giving" is the first virtue and the foundation of merit-making. Giving does not necessarily mean money or abundant possessions; it can be offering encouragement, sharing knowledge, giving time, or offering forgiveness, all of which constitute merit-making.
In Thai astrology, people with a generous nature tend to have good destiny, because giving creates merit and blessing. It brings people to help in times of need and brings good opportunities into life. This is the principle of karma—"do good, receive good; do bad, receive bad"—which is not mere superstition but an observable natural law.
The current trend of thought among younger Thais is therefore a positive sign, showing that Thai society is developing a deeper understanding of beliefs and Buddhist principles. It is not abandonment of tradition, but an adaptation suited to the modern era, based on wisdom and goodness as core values, which aligns with the true original teachings of Buddhism.
Compiled from publicly released news · Source: workpointtoday.com