Introduction / History

Centuries ago the Central Thai people lived north of Yangtzekiang in China. Relentless pressure by the Chinese gradually forced them southward. They conquered many peoples and cultures as they sought a new homeland, and by the 10th century they had settled in what is now central Thailand. A bloodless revolution in 1932, led by Westernized intellectuals, instituted a democratic constitutional monarchy. However, the country has suffered numerous governmental upheavals since then. Today, Buddhism is the central and unifying force in Thai society and even maintains social control. The Central Thai speak Thai, the official language of Thailand.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Typically, Thai people in Norway are either students or wives and children of Norwegians. These women are more likely to be employed than many migrant women. Often they live in rural parts of Norway.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Theravada Buddhism was introduced in Thailand in 329 B.C. Almost all of the Thai are devout followers of Gautama Buddha and seek to eliminate suffering and improve their future by gaining merit in pursuit of perfect peace, or nirvana. They believe that merit can be acquired through feeding monks, donating to temples, and attending worship services.

What Are Their Needs?

The Thai people in Norway need the hope that is in being part of the body of Christ. As it stands, they are not putting their hope in the One who is the solid rock.

Prayer Points

Pray for a "Book of Acts" type of movement to Christ among the Central Thai people. Pray for the Holy Spirit to give the Central Thai people teachable and understanding hearts. Pray that a strong movement of the Holy Spirit will bring entire Central Thai families into a rich experience of God's blessing. Pray for workers to go to the Thai people.

Scripture Prayers for the Thai in Norway.

References

https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/IJMHSC-01-2018-0002/full/html