Browsing the Dharma Shelf – The May 2569 Edition of Art and Culture Magazine: The Forest Tradition of Venerable Mun Bhuridatto and the Path of Faith Among Bangkok's Elite
The May 2569 edition of Art and Culture Magazine explores how forest monks from northeastern Thailand, particularly followers of Venerable Mun Bhuridatto, gained prominence among Bangkok's elite despite holding marginal status during the ea
Art and Culture Magazine, May 2569 Edition: The Forest Tradition of Venerable Mun Bhuridatto and Bangkok's Elite Devotees Editor: Art and Culture Editorial Board Published by: Art and Culture, Matichon Publishing House Price: 150 baht
In contemporary Thai society, "forest monks" are not merely ascetics retreating into deep forests, but symbols of spiritual purity. Many forest monks have been revered as "arahants" transcending worldly concerns. Images of forest monks venerated by the royal court, elite classes, and people nationwide—particularly in Bangkok—have become so familiar they seem timeless, as if dating back to the Buddha's era. Yet examining history reveals this phenomenon actually emerged in the early reign of King Rama IX. During his reign, forest monks held no elevated status in Bangkok's centers of power. Devotion to forest monks remained confined to local levels, far removed from becoming focal points for Bangkok's elite. The crucial question emerges: how did forest monks from the Northeast transcend their marginal status?
The Art and Culture magazine presents the article "Path of Faith from the Northeast to Bangkok: The Relationship Between Venerable Mun Bhuridatto's Forest Monk Lineage and Bangkok's Elite (1960s-2010s)," researched by Saplot Angkhapichimedha. This article explores the pivotal historical intersection between the forest monk lineage and Bangkok's upper classes.
The May 2569 edition of Art and Culture also features numerous historical articles from various perspectives, including: "Khong-Chi-Mun Before Bangkok: Networks of Champa Relations" by Rungroach Phiromyanukhul; "Heavenly Beings" by Sansnee Veerasilchai; "Rama's Forest Walk in Rama IV's Reign and the Stories He Edited" by Stananth Krutphichet; "Wat Tha-Wat Karong: The Fatal Bullet Point of 'Mr. Reuk'" by Achirwijchay Anthapun; and "Animal Symbols in Ancient Board Games: Entertainment or Ritual" by Phanu Traiveach.
All these articles can be found exclusively in the May 2569 edition of Art and Culture Magazine.
**Guru Critique of Gurus: Inspiring Reflection** **Zen's Natural Path: Sudden Clarity**
The magazine also recommends "Guru Critique of Gurus" by Osho, published by Freemind Publishing at 285 baht. This book revives influential sages and philosophers—from the Buddha to Jesus, Krishna, poets like Laozi and Rumi, philosophers like Nietzsche and Pythagoras, to modern thinkers like Kahlil Gibran and Gurdjieff. The author presents these figures' wisdom in accessible, thought-provoking ways that inspire reflection.
Also featured: "Zen's Natural Path" by Niroat Jitwisut, exploring Zen Buddhism's enlightenment as direct insight into the true nature of reality.
