Thais and Fortune Telling

Siripun Sinbuathong 07.12.2010 23:18

The Thai way of life is based upon Buddhist religious beliefs as well as the animistic elements of Brahmanism and folklore.

 As a result, religion has become a mixture of philosophical, mythical and supernatural elements, all of which deeply influence one's way of life. Just as some people go to see the doctors to treat their physical ailments, some Thais go to fortune  tellers or as Thais call them Mhor Doo, the all seeing doctor to cure their spiritual ills and prevent future maladies.

Fortune tellers are engaged to give auspicious names to a baby according to his exact birth calculations. Weddings, investments, travel, car purchases, building construction, traveling and other significant decisions in life, are all directed by the fortune teller. There are many forms of fortune telling: palm reading, star charts, playing cards, physical features, spirit mediums and high - tech computerized fortune - telling.

Fortune tellers can be found in many places; the markets, the temples, beach road and also at the fortune-tellers home.

ManyThais in Pattaya have been known to visit the fortune teller along Jomtien Beach Road Soi 11 and another at Pattaya Beach Road Soi 6. There is a famous fortune teller in Naklua who can tell you your future for just 199 baht. Some fortune tellers accept money while some just want flowers or other donations for the temple.