This page is for people who wants to come and visit
or work among the Shan or Thai (or in a Buddhist culture).

To meet another culture is sometimes a big challenge, that’s why it is important to get into some of the culture before we go.

To put your self into the couture you are going to shows respect for them and it is easier to reach them with the Gospel.

The greeting ”Sawatdee”. (Shan: Mau/Mei Song Ka)

The traditional Thai greeting is not a handshake but a “wai”, where the hands are brought together in front of the chin. The younger or lower-ranking person “wais” first.

When you approaching someone in Thailand you use title before their names according to their age and status. For example a child you usually call noug (younger brother) before his name or long (onchle) for a person older than you.

The head

Thais believe the head to be the most sacred part of the body. Thus, refrain from touching a Thai on the head, even as a friendly gesture.

The feet

The feet are also of off limits. They are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Remember to apologize if you accidentally step on someone’s foot (or touch their head).

Don’t rest your feet or put your shoes on a table, and don’t stretch out your feet in anyone’s direction. This is particularly important in temples-don’t point your feet at a Buddha image or monk.

The religion

Thais and Shan feel very strongly about their religion, so don’t wear your beach clothes to a temple (or other public places). Both women and men should cover their legs and shoulders. Don’t allow children to climb over Buddha images. Always remove your shoes before entering.

It is all right to wear shoes while walking around the compound of a Buddhist temple, but not inside the chapel where the principal of Buddha image is kept.

Buddhist priests are forbidden to touch or be touched by women or to accept anything from their hands. If a woman has to give anything to a monk or novice, she hands it to a man, who then presents it.

All Buddha images, large or small, ruined or not, are regarded as sacred objects. Hence, don’t climb up on one to take picture or do anything that might show lack of respect.

From a Christian view

I do not think it is wise to go prayer walks to Buddhist temples. Yes, in Jesus we have full authority, even over Buddha’s power, but…

Since people come to the temples to worship, they also give room for spirits to enter. In a place where spirits are constantly given authority, we can’t go around and bind this and that.

Example: Why pour water into a bottle that is leaking? You need to find out WHERE the bottle is leaking before pouring fresh water in it.

But what we have full authority to do, is praying for deliverance for people affected by evil spirits. We should never hold back on praying for people. Keep in mind; avoid touching monks heads….

If you receive an amulet or a Buddha idol as a gift, don’t receive it, even if they say it’s just a souvenir or a memory. All amulets and idols are prayed for by monks and worshiped, so they can contain evil spirits. When you receive amulet say politely: I appreciate your gift, but I am a Christian and can’t receive it. Most people will accept this.

The way of behave

Displays of anger are ugly and a sign of a lack of self-control. So don’t lose your cool in any irritating situation. Anger won’t get you anywhere; rather practice polite persistence. 
The smile means that you have control over your self, so use it a lot.

Displays of affection between the sexes in public are a “no no”.

The royal family

The royal family is deeply respected and loved. Don’t speak ill of them even in jest.
Don’t lick at stamps and step on coins with the king on. It’s a real offence.

The approach behaviour

Thais are quite respectful of Westerners and you will probably get people trying out their English on you. Don’t be offended by questions about your age, salary and marital status. They don’t mean to be intrusive.

Similarly, the greeting is often “Hey, you!” from the Thais who don’t know English. This is not an insult; rather, it is a translation from the polite “ “you” in the Thai language.

You might experience some Thais says to you: “Were you go?” It seems like t5hey are very interested in were you are going. But it is actually a greeting, it actually means “how are you”. They translate this word directly into English and then it becomes: “Were you go”

The Thai law

A number of special sections in the Thai law concern religious offences. These cover not only Buddhism, the majority of the people, but also other faiths represented in the kingdom.

Dress!

Dress respectfully. Do not go without a t-shirt, short t-shirts that show your stomach, tight pants, tights or anything else that may be offensive to them. To walk or bathe topless is certainly taboo.

When you work with the local is very important to think about what is decent, what we consider ok, for them can seem very indecent, this is something that could destroy much of the work you/we do, be wise!

It's okay for men to go in shorts in the area where those living in the city and more tourist sites but they should rather not use the shorts when they go to visit someone or to teach or speak.

Women can wear long trousers or short pants that reach well above the knees. If women wear skirts, they should also have a petticoat.

Hygiene

Personal hygiene and cleanliness are very important for the Thais (and Shan).
To take a shower or bath before they go to bed is usual.
If you live together with a Tahi (or Shan) remember to do the same.

Tattooing

Tattoos have a grate spiritual significance for the Shans. Most Shan men have tattoos for protection against evil spirits.

When they become Christians, they often want to get rid of them, but that is very expensive.

In Thai culture it is also looked down on if you have tattoos. (But it is becoming more common among the youth now)

It is recommended not to take tattoos in Thailand, both for health reasons and because of cultural offence.