Page 181 - รวมเล่มศาสนาในประเทศไทย ภาคภาษาอังกฤษ

In Thai Society, Brahmins who are eligible to perform These characteristics are the image of the Brahmins of
rites must be Dvija Brahmins. Dvija means “twice-born”, referring the Devasathan, who are an important part of Thai society. One can
to the person that has been born the first time through a physical recognize a Brahmin by the hair knot tied at the back of the head
birth from parents, and the second time through ordination as he and the wearing of white clothes at all times. When performing a
enters the priesthood to worship and discourse the benevolence of ritual ceremony, the wrap-around white lower cloth is worn with a
deities in order to lead followers to return and be one with universal white uniform jacket. The Brahmins do not eat beef for food. They
Brahman ideal. The “Brahmin” person must have qualifications of practice the dhamma of Brahmanism daily, and never exclude
5 characteristics: activities that are partly related to Buddhism. In addition, they also

1. Birth, he must be born from the father and mother coordinate with other Brahmin-Hinduist denominations to maintain
who belong to the Brahman caste for a period of 7 generations. good relationships.
2. Mantra he must complete the study of the “trayī There are many denominations of Brahmin-
vidyā” Vedas. It is “the triple science” of reciting hymns (Rigveda), Hinduism in Bangkok where many Indians have come for
performing sacrifices (Yajurveda), and the chanting of songs commercial purpose of trade and settled. They have built their
(Samaveda or TriVedas) He must know all related texts with fluent religious temples for the practice of their Brahmin-Hindu
expertise. religious ceremonies for worshipping the deities. The temple
also serves as a place for community activities. The propagation
3. Varna or Caste, he must have a fine image and
of Brahmin-Hinduism has been freely extended to all Indian
features belonging to the Brahmin class.
communities starting from the reign of King Rama I. The religion
4. Sila or Virtue, he must maintain virtuous behaviour,
became widely accepted by many Thai and Chinese people
physically and verbally; also have self control at all times.
as well. In important occasions, not only Indians, but many people
5. Panna or Wisdom, he must be knowledgeable, full with different religions, participates the Brahmin events, suggesting
of wisdom from education, such that people give him respect as a the true faith and belief on Brahmin-Hinduism.
teacher or master.

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