What is Thainess?
What makes a Thai, truly Thai? It's more than just our love for Pad Thai or the joy we take in our colorful festivals and stunning temples. At the heart of every Thai, are values, deep-seated and cherished, that shape our very identity - our 'Thainess'.
These values guide us, in our dealings with each other and the world at large. Let me give you a peek into the five core values of Thainess, from my viewpoint as a Thai.
1. A Deep Sense of Peace & Harmony
We, Thais, prioritize peace and harmony in our relationships and surroundings. This value can be reflected in our iconic Thai phrases:
🗣️ "Mâi bpen rai" (ไม่เป็นไร):
This phrase, meaning “never mind” or “it’s okay,” reflects a stress-free attitude and a willingness to let go of small inconveniences. It helps maintain inner peace and avoids unnecessary conflict.
🗣️ "kreeng jai" (เกรงใจ):
Thais are considerate of others' feelings and try to avoid causing discomfort or inconvenience. This can be seen in the subtle ways Thais communicate, often choosing polite and indirect language to preserve harmony.
Example scenario:
Mali, a Thai lady, saw her colleague walking out of the office while she was driving past him. She offers him a ride even though she might have to take a 10-min detour, but he politely rejects and says “mâi-bpen-rai. greeng-jai” as he feels considerate and doesn’t to cause her extra effort and time.
2. The Spirit of Hospitality
Thailand has a reputation as the “Land of Smiles”, however, smiles are just outer gestures, but what lies inside a Thai’s heart is the value of “น้ำใจ náam-jai”. This word doesn’t have a 1-to-1 English translation but it’s a combination of generosity, kindness, thoughtfulness, and the willingness to help others.
น้ำใจ náam-jai is a natural part of Thai culture, where kindness and helpfulness are extended to family, friends, and strangers. Those who have this value (มีน้ำใจ mii náam-jai) are highly appreciated and respected in our society.
It's the little things that matter. Whether it's guiding a confused tourist, helping with big bags, or sharing a meal with neighbors, Thais take pride in offering others some help and support. This warmth is what makes Thailand a favorite among travelers.
Example scenario: Mali is helping an old lady cross a street.
3. The Importance of Buddhism
Buddhism is deeply ingrained in Thai culture, with over 90% of Thais practicing the religion. While rooted in the core principles of the Buddha’s teachings, Thai Buddhism has evolved into a unique blend of spiritual practices and traditions, shaped by the country’s history, cultural values, and local beliefs.
One of the fundamental concepts in Thai Buddhism is “กรรม gam” (Karma), the belief that our actions determine the outcomes of our lives.
Thais hold that every deed—good or bad—produces a consequence, either in this life or future ones. This belief encourages kindness, generosity, and mindfulness in daily activities.
The belief in reincarnation also runs deep in Thai Buddhism, reinforcing the idea that life’s circumstances—whether fortunate or challenging—are tied to one’s past actions in previous lives. This perspective fosters a sense of acceptance among Thais, as we often view challenges as part of their karmic journey.
For instance, people regularly "ทำบุญ tam bun" (make merit) by donating to temples, offering food to monks during their morning alms walks, or contributing to community projects. Thai people usually wake up early to give alms and provide food to monks.
4. Respect for Hierarchy and Seniority
Thai society has a clear hierarchy that influences how people live, work, and interact, especially when it comes to seniority. This concept is rooted in the value of respecting seniors, known as “ผู้ใหญ่” (pûu-yài), which translates to "elders" or "those of higher standing."
However, seniority in Thai culture goes beyond just age—there are deeper layers to this value that shape behavior and communication in everyday life:
👉🏽 Age: In Thai culture, age plays a significant role in determining respect. We highly regard not only the elderly but also anyone slightly older, even by just a few months or years.
👉🏽 Social status: While Thai society is gradually adopting more individualistic ideals, traditional respect for positions of power remains strong. This is why the role of a teacher (ครู kruu) is highly revered, and leaders are often addressed with honorifics that acknowledge their position.
👉🏽 Experience: Seniority in Thailand also encompasses experience, regardless of age. When we just started a new job, we call our colleagues “คุณ kun” (Mr. or miss) or “พี่ pîi” (older sister or older brother)
👉🏽 Strangers: In daily life, it’s common to address strangers with terms like "พี่ pîi" (older one) or "น้อง náawng" (younger one) based on perceived age or seniority, even if you don’t know their actual age. For instance, at a market, restaurant, or in a taxi, addressing someone as “พี่ pîi” when they seem older is seen as polite and respectful.
Example scenario: John is calling a service staff “pîii kráp” or “brother”
5. Simple, Stress-free Mentality
Thais embrace a relaxed, “go-with-the-flow” attitude toward life. This mentality is evident in phrases like "ไม่เป็นไร mâi bpen rai" (it’s okay) and "สบาย ๆ sà-baai sà-baai" (easy-going).
This mindset reflects a preference for avoiding conflict and letting things go to maintain peace. Rooted in Buddhist values of mindfulness and presence, it encourages staying calm, flexible, and stress-free, even when things don’t go as planned. This approach fosters a sense of inner peace and social harmony in daily interactions.
Example Scenario:
Mali and John have a plan to meet their friends at 10 am. They decided to avoid Bangkok’s traffic by taking BTS however the previous train was full so they needed to take the next train. Even though they will make it in time, John starts to panic while Mali is trying to calm him down by saying “สบาย ๆ sà-baai sà-baai” (take it easy)
Are there any other values, behaviors, or actions you can define as “Thainess”? Share with us below in the comments. I am curious 🤨🤣