Children and Religions in Bangkok

  • Posted on: 29 November 2016
  • By: dischool_admin

People who have kids in international schools in Bangkok will find that Buddhism is, by far, the largest religion practiced not only in the city, but in all of Thailand. However, that does not mean there are not other religions practiced there. You can also find Christianity and Islam practiced there, though not in as great of prominence as Buddhism.

As Buddhism is the most prominent religion in Thailand, those with kids in international schools in Bangkok will see its influence all around the city. There are several major Buddhist temples located around the city, including Wat Phra Kaew – Also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha – Which is considered the most important temple in all of Thailand. It is also not an uncommon site to see Buddhist monks in the city, though most of them tend to stay around the temples. These monks are highly respected, and should be treated with the utmost respect. Buddhist holidays are also celebrated in Bangkok, including Makha Bucha, Buddhist Lent, and the most important holiday in all of Buddhism, Visakha Bucha, which is the celebration of the birth and enlightenment of the Buddha. These are national holidays in the country, and schools and many businesses are usually closed during these days.

People with a kid in an international school in Bangkok who practice Christianity will find themselves in the extreme minority. Christianity is not a very prominent religion in Thailand, though that does not mean that it is not practiced at all. There are a few churches in Bangkok, including Christ Church Bangkok, Newsong Bangkok International Church, and International Church of Bangkok. These churches recognize that the people visiting them are more likely to be from other countries, so they are setup to welcome visitors from all over the world. Christian holidays are not celebrated nearly as prominently as they are in countries where Christianity is the major religion. For example, Christmas is not celebrated as a national holiday, though there is some celebration of it. You may see Christmas decorations displayed around the city, but businesses and public schools (should Christmas fall on a weekday) will continue to operate as normal. However, international schools will usually close for Christmas.

Islam is more prominent in Thailand than Christianity, but it is still a minority religion. People with kids in international schools in Bangkok who practice Islam will see that, much like with Christianity, Muslim holidays are not celebrated as national holidays, and it is usually left to the individual to celebrate them. This means any Muslims in Bangkok should not expect widespread celebrations of Eid Al-Fitr or Eid Al-Adha. However, there are many mosques found around Bangkok, with around 170 in total. Some of the mosques found in the city include Riyadis Sunan Mosque, Bang Uthit Mosque, and Jawa Mosque. As is the case with Christian holidays, businesses and public schools remain open during Muslim holidays. In addition, international schools also tend to remain open during Muslim holidays.

If you looking for international school in Thailand for your kids please visit Thai-Chinese International School (TCIS).