MERIT OR SIN: A STUDY ON THE PRINCIPLES AND CONCEPTS OF RELEASING AQUATIC ANIMALS RESPONSIBLY IN THE THAI SOCIAL CONTEXT

Abstract

This academic article is a part of the thesis on "How to Release Aquatic Animals for Merit: Principles and Concepts in the Context of Thai Society". with development build on from academic article on Guidelines of Releasing Aquatic Animals in Thai Social Context The purpose was to study the "Principles and Concepts of Releasing Aquatic Animals Responsibly in Thai Social Context". It was found that the release of aquatic animals for merit in the Thai society has no clear evidence of when it originated, but it is believed to be influenced by the spread of Buddhism and Brahmanism into Southeast Asia. Buddhists believe that if you make merit by releasing aquatic animals, you will receive spiritual benefits leading to physical and mental happiness. It's considered a way to mitigate bad karma for those suffering or in difficult circumstances. The concepts and principles of releasing aquatic animals for merit in the Thai society responsibly come from four main ideas: 1) The concept of releasing aquatic animals for merit-making in Thai society; 2) The idea of releasing aquatic animals into a suitable environment responsibly; 3) The concept regarding the general characteristics of aquatic animals and the suitable habitats for the aquatic animals that Thai Buddhists release; 4) The belief in the release of aquatic animals in the context of Thai society that affects the results of merit received.