I have done some research about monasteries in Thailand. Number of Buddhist novice in Thailand increase every year. Figure by officer show that 97 875 novices. It is easy that more young man being drown to the religious life, but this is not the reasons for the increase in novice.
The increase is more likely an indication of the continuing poverty and lack of opportunity among the many advantages Thais families, especially in rural areas. It is a sad reflection of the poor parents’ inability to care for and educate their children.
Boys in rural areas become novice because there is no where else for them to go. Hardly for parent there to feed their children or send them to school. Therefore, for many boys studying in monastic high school is the only way they can complete their circular education.
The majorities of novice are in their late teens, but they can be as old as seven twenty. After reach 20, a novice as old as twenty is expected to be either ordained as full monk, or disrobe entirely. Expert says that monasteries play an important role and act as a special support system that has been around for the same time.
Novice normally study during weekend. Apart from walking on the dawn alms rounds and attending morning and evening services, they have their own duties. For example, keeping the monasteries grounds swept or preparing candles and incense of ceremonies. They schedule can be full beginning as early as 5.00 a.m. and last late at 11.00 p.m.
There was a little bit or input that I have gain from my survey. I am still wondering until now how exactly they ruin their life as being a novice, because I have heard that they can’t get married...=)
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