Commemorate King's birthday by wearing yellow attire called for by supporters
In the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand is gearing up for a special month of merit-making and loyalty, running from July 25 to 31. This period marks the birthday of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, celebrated on July 28.
During this time, wearing yellow is a culturally significant act that symbolizes loyalty, respect, and celebration of the monarchy. The tradition of associating yellow with the King dates back to the reign of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), who was born on a Monday, and yellow corresponds to Monday in Thai color symbolism.
The merit-making campaign during this period involves collective activities that reflect Thai cultural and spiritual values. Citizens are encouraged to offer prayers, engage in charity projects, donate blood, and present flowers at royal statues. These acts are ways for Thai people to show devotion and participate in community engagement, aligning with Buddhist traditions that emphasize merit (good karma) accumulation through generosity and moral conduct.
The King's birthday celebrations also feature official ceremonies filled with prayers to wish well-being for the monarch, underscoring the day's significance as both a national holiday and a spiritual event.
The government, led by Acting Prime Minister Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, is urging the public to wear yellow from July 28 to August 1. This call was made at a weekly cabinet meeting on Tuesday. The government spokesman, Jirayu Huangsap, has emphasized that this is a unified gesture of loyalty and appreciation for the King's benevolence.
The merit-making campaign is not limited to the public sector agencies, state enterprises, security forces, private sector entities, and the general public mentioned earlier, but may also include those who use the Samathi Sebiangboon meditation app. The app, available for download on the Play Store and App Store, is playing a role in the campaign by facilitating collective meditation sessions and charitable activities.
The public is also encouraged to reflect on the Triple Gem as a source of spiritual refuge and to practise the "Right View" (Sammā Diṭṭhi) from the Noble Eightfold Path.
In addition to the merit-making campaign, the Royal Household Bureau invites the public to sign an online book of blessings for HM the King from July 25 to 31 via the official Royal Household website. This initiative serves as another way for Thai citizens to express their loyalty and devotion during this special month.
This tradition underscores the revered status of the monarchy in Thailand and reflects cultural values connecting color, spirituality, and national identity. It is a testament to the deep-rooted respect and love the Thai people have for their King.
[1] Thai Color Symbolism: A Cultural Exploration [2] The Significance of Yellow in Thai Culture [3] Merit-Making in Thai Buddhism: A Comprehensive Guide [4] The Role of the Monarchy in Thailand: A Historical Perspective
- Amidst the celebrations for King Maha Vajiralongkorn's birthday, fashion-and-beauty aficionados and home-and-garden enthusiasts alike may find interest in the cultural significance of the color yellow in Thai lifestyle, as Thai Color Symbolism demonstrates.
- During the merit-making campaign for the King's birthday, Thai citizens are encouraged not only to engage in collective activities, but also to reflect on the Triple Gem and practice the "Right View" as part of their lifestyle, aligning with the teachings of Thai Buddhism as detailed in Merit-Making in Thai Buddhism: A Comprehensive Guide.
