#MonasticLife

Buddhism sits at the heart of Thai life, shaping family rhythms, civic values, and everyday decisions. Preserving Buddhism, or การธำรงรักษาพุทธศาสนา, is more than maintaining rituals; it is about keeping the core teachings alive and relevant for today’s Thais. This piece examines what preservation means, why it matters in Thailand, how it has evolved, and what individuals and society can do to keep Buddhism a living force for generations to come.

The significance of safeguarding Buddhism in Thai society has been a matter of deep discussion, reflection, and collective action for centuries. In a country where Buddhism shapes not only spiritual beliefs but also the social and cultural fabric, understanding and practicing the preservation of Buddhism — “การธำรงรักษาพุทธศาสนา” — is more relevant than ever. This article explores what the preservation of Buddhism involves, why it matters especially in the Thai context, how it has evolved historically, and what both individuals and society at large can do to ensure Buddhism remains a living, breathing force in Thailand now and for generations to come.