11 Things to Know About the Culture in Thailand

Want to know more about the culture in Thailand? Here are 11 things I’ve learned from living in this crazy cool country!  

1. The main language is Thai, spoken by 80% of the country.
2. People often share their food. Be prepared to share yours. (Ugh. This one is hard.) 
3. They are a culture that operates out of honor and shame. 
4. 95% of the country are Buddhist while only 0.7% are Christian. 
5. Thailand has religious freedom which means it is not illegal to be a Christian. 
6. “Saving face” is a huge thing in Thailand. If you get frustrated it is important to stay calm and keep a happy face. If you don’t you are pushing dishonor on them. 
7. Feet are disgusting. Because of the nation wide belief that your feet are the most dishonorable part of you, taking off your shoes before going into places, especially people’s houses, is so important. You also do NOT show people the bottom of your feet. 
8. Likewise, the head is the most honorable part of your body and you should not touch the top of other people’s heads. 
9. Respect the king. This is big. There are giant pictures of the king everywhere. You don’t say anything against the king, and should even be careful with language like, “Jesus is the one true king.” 
10. When the national anthem is played, stand up and don’t talk. 
11. NEVER touch a monk. 

Living in Thailand is whole new world. There are so so many things that I love about this culture and these people. There are a lot of lost people here but even in that God is moving BIG ways. I ask that you pray for Thailand. Pray for the ones who call this place their home and for the thousands of people who visit everyday from all over the world. Pray for healing and restoration of souls. Pray that the gospel spreads through this nation like wildfire. Pray bold prayers because we have an all powerful God who is faithful and at work. You have an opportunity to be a part of what God is doing not only in Thailand but in countries all over the world without even leaving your house. Will you join in God’s great plan to bring people into right relationship with him?