National Museum Volunteers (NMV) Bangkok, Thailand
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Photo: Akha hilltribes woman Study Groups are gatherings of about ten to twelve NMV members who meet weekly for about 5 - 6 weeks to study a particular topic.

Topics cover an aspect of Thai or Asian culture and include:
  • Hilltribes
  • Royal Temples of Bangkok
  • SE Asian Textiles
  • Hindu Gods
  • Thai Ceramics
At the start of the Study Group, the Leader distributes a syllabus and suggested reading and reference information.
Each member chooses a topic to study in detail.
Every week, one or two group members give a short presentation on their specific topic, usually accompanied by presentation media.
The Study Group leader may assist members in gathering research and presentation materials.


BELIEFS AND SUPERSTITIONS IN THAILAND


LhasaSORIENTATION: February 6th, 2012

PRESENTATIONS:
February 20th, 27th,
March 6th, 13th and one day excursion.

Leader: Martine MAUFFREY

Place: Will be announced later

Sign up: Martine at mmauffrey@hotmail.com

Despite the fantastic development Thailand has been undergoing throughout the XXI century, the every day life of the Thai people is still made up of an abundance of superstitions and beliefs. They are not only Buddhist or Brahmanist in origin, but carry very often strong animist elements. Beliefs and superstitions are the result of long exposure to ancestral rural beliefs within the religions. Living in Thailand shows us how deeply rooted is the respect of Thai people for their traditions, their ancestors, and the huge tolerance they have.


This study group will help us to understand better why Thai people are superstitious, what are their spirits and ghosts, and how they protect themselves from evil forces. We will learn about the use and the meanings of Palat Kik and Spirit houses.

We shall also have the opportunity to visit some special shrines and places in Bangkok, where spirits are worshipped and where we'll witness what is happening and why.

Looking forward to seeing you at this study group.


Study Groups in other languages


We are going to set up a similar Study Group for the German and French speaking communities very soon. If you are willing to sign up for one of these two Study Group,please contact Martine: mmauffrey@hotmail.com

Wir planen demnächst ähnliche Arbeitskreise auch in Deutsch für deutschsprachige Mitglieder. Bei Interesse bitte melden bei Martine: mmauffrey@hotmail.com

Nous mettons aussi en place un Groupe d'Etude en langue française pour tous les francophones, si vous êtes intéressé contactez Martine: mmauffrey@hotmail.com
© 2012 NMV National Museum Volunteers Bangkok Thailand