A Dhamma teaching from Somdet Phra Maharatchamongkhalachan, Acting Supreme Patriarch presented in honor of HM Queen Sirikit’s Birthday Anniversary on August 12th, 2014
August 12th of each year is a special day for the Kingdom of Thai and her citizens because it is HM Queen Sirikit’s birhday. Regarded as the Mother of the Nation, the Queen’s birthday has been declared as the national Mother’s Day by the government of Thailand.
Queen Sirikit is beloved, respected, and admired by Thai citizens because she has gracefully carried out her royal duties for over 60 years for the benefit of the country and Buddhism. She is the wife and Queen to the longest reigning monarch in the world, His Majesty King Bhumibol, and has stood devotedly by his side everywhere the King has traveled in Thailand.
Her Majesty is also a faithful supporter of Buddhism and enjoys attending Dhamma lectures at various temples. She has donated generously to the creation of the large standing Buddha statue known as “Phra Buddha Metta Prachathai Trilokanart Gandhara Anusorn” in Kanchanaburi province.
Each year when August 12th arrives, Thai citizens enthusiastically organize large meritorious events and ceremonies throughout the country in honor of their beloved Queen.
The word “mother” in any country and language is a noble word that conveys reverence and respect because our mother is also the person who gave us life. In Buddhism, the Buddha honored His mother and demonstrated His depth of gratitude for her kindness by teaching her the highest Dhamma, an exemplary example for all Buddhists to follow.
On this wonderful occasion of Mother’s Day, I would like to encourage everyone to recollect your mother’s extraordinary kindness and make her proud by putting your greatest effort when it comes to her. Encourage her to perform good deeds with us and dedicate the merit to our Queen Sirikit. And from this day forward, keep your mother in your thoughts every day and encourage everyone to observe the precepts so that it brings forth happiness to the family and leads to a harmonious and peaceful society and nation.
