La très catastrophique visite du zoo

Joël Dicker

Description

In Thailand, becoming a monk is more than a spiritual decision—it is a cultural rite, a social responsibility, and an expression of filial devotion. Ordaining the Son: The Thai Monkhood Rite offers a deep and respectful look into this important Thai tradition, one that continues to shape the lives of families, communities, and young men across generations.

In many Thai households, the ordination of a son—whether for a few days or several months—is viewed not just as a religious act but as a profound offering of gratitude to one's parents. This act, often performed during early adulthood, marks a symbolic transition from boyhood to manhood. The son enters the monkhood temporarily, takes on Buddhist precepts, and dedicates himself to a period of spiritual discipline. For the family, this rite carries the merit of offering their son to the temple—an act believed to benefit parents both in this life and beyond.

This book explores the full cycle of the monkhood rite, from early preparations and village ceremonies to the emotional reflections of parents, siblings, and the ordained men themselves. Drawing from interviews, cultural commentary, and lived experience, Ordaining the Son unveils the symbolism behind rituals like the shaving of the head, the donning of saffron robes, and the recitation of precepts. Each stage reveals not only religious devotion but a rich cultural worldview where respect, humility, and merit-making are central values.

Within Thai Buddhism, the idea of tham bun—accumulating spiritual merit—is foundational. The ordination ceremony is one of the most potent forms of merit-making, believed to elevate the spiritual standing of the entire family. Parents, especially mothers, are seen as deeply honored through this act. Many believe that by ordaining, a son creates a karmic benefit that helps guide his parents toward favorable rebirth or spiritual liberation.

The book also highlights how this tradition evolves in modern contexts. In urban Thailand, ceremonies may be shorter or adapted to busy lives. In the Thai diaspora—from Sydney to Los Angeles—families recreate these rites abroad to preserve identity and pass cultural values to the next generation. Despite changes, the essence remains: a commitment to spiritual introspection, family honor, and Buddhist practice.

As part of the Sacred Thai: Ghosts, Beliefs, and Rituals in Thai Culture series, this volume continues a journey through the spiritual life of Thailand. Like its companion books—Calling the Soul, Feeding the Dead, and Breaking the Ties—this installment bridges ethnographic insight and emotional storytelling to reveal how ancient rites continue to shape contemporary Thai life.

Readers interested in Buddhist traditions, Southeast Asian studies, cross-cultural family practices, and spiritual rites of passage will find this book both informative and moving. With its emphasis on Thai Buddhist ordination, the monkhood ritual, and the act of honoring one's parents through religious devotion, Ordaining the Son offers a lens into a tradition that continues to resonate in both temple courtyards and family homes.

Whether you're a scholar of religion, a traveler seeking deeper understanding, or someone tracing their cultural roots, this book opens a door to one of Thailand's most sacred and enduring traditions—where becoming a monk is more than personal transformation: it is a gift of love, faith, and legacy.

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