Research & Article

This article considers various aspects of Thai religion, particularly its indigenous elements that escape the confines of Buddhism as traditionally defined, arguing that pre-Buddhist earth religion has been preserved in Thailand more completely and clearly than other parts of the world where it has also been identified. Specific aspects of Thai religion that are independent of influences imported from India include the boundary of Sima stones, the planting of the signs (Luk Nimit), the Serpent postulant, and the door to the underworld. Additionally, contemporary artists, as well as their work on similar themes, are discussed. However, this is a wide field that has been little explored by the academic community, and thus this article only serves to begin this scholarship.