International Studies- Photo Contest

The Offering

Sonia Malmquist

Category: Cultural Texture
Religious Studies of Asia: Thailand
✠ Photo: Chaing Mai, Thailand

In Thailand, Buddhism and culture are one in the same. Buddhist
symbols, temples, monks, and images are overwhelmingly present in everyday
life. Images of the Buddha were originally created as an object of worship
and in order to spread the Buddha's message. Overtime, the specific form of
Buddha images has undergone subtle changes, creating visibly different
characteristics that reflect the cultural values, craftsmanship and the
influences of neighboring countries. This photo was taken at Wat Doisuthep.