Andaman Rising: Robed in Merit

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Robed in Merit

onning a saffron-colored robe, Juttipong Wongpet’s life changes.

He gains a new name and loses the hair on his eyebrows and head. Heralded in a grand procession, his family celebrates the honor he brings them as he follows Buddha’s path.

As a 15-day monk, Wongpet is robed for merit, earning favor for his ancestors. Living within sacred temple walls is not a unique experience in Thailand. Every Thai Buddhist man faces the decision to be ordained from a few weeks to a lifetime. Although Wongpet will leave his monk name behind, for a season he will rise above the station of a layman…and bring honor to his family.

by Nacho Corbella

Graphic Buddhist Temple
Thailand is one of the most strongly Buddhist countries in the world. The national religion is Theravada Buddhism which is practiced by more than 95% of all Thais (Population 63 million). Their place of cult is the Wat, a building which can vary in size, but all of them have certain constructions edifications that must be present. Take a virtual tour around Wat Lak Kaen, a typical Thai Wat.