A recent beach outing by nuns from a temple in Samut Sakhon has ignited discussions regarding their conduct and the ethical implications of their fundraising activities. The nuns, who were seen enjoying a day at the beach while wearing wigs and participating in karaoke, assert that they had received prior approval from the National Office of Buddhism for their vacation.
The controversy began when the Facebook page CSI LA posted images on May 20, showcasing the nuns engaging in what some have labeled inappropriate behavior. The post highlighted that the nuns from the Ketumadee Sriwararam Temple were seen dressed in casual attire, rather than their customary white robes, and were photographed with individuals who did not conform to traditional gender norms. The page questioned the appropriateness of their actions, asking, “Are these the proper practices of celibates? Is there no oversight of their behavior? What are the true intentions behind the merit-making activities and donations at this temple?”
The photos, reportedly taken in February 2020, depict the nuns in a relaxed setting, raising eyebrows about their adherence to the principles of their religious vows. The images were initially shared within a private LINE group chat, where the nuns confirmed their identities.
CSI LA further alleged that the nuns had successfully raised over 100 million baht through various donation campaigns and played significant roles in the temple’s financial dealings. The post also claimed that the nuns received bonuses at the end of the year, which allowed them to partake in leisure activities, including the beach trip.
In an interview with Channel 7, one of the nuns, Sirinthip, acknowledged the trip to Phetchaburi, asserting that they had conducted a ceremony to temporarily suspend the eight precepts that govern Buddhist nuns prior to their outing. She emphasized that they had sought and received permission from the National Office of Buddhism for their vacation.
Sirinthip also clarified that the funds used for the trip were sourced from their personal finances, specifically from the sale of her land, and were not derived from temple donations.
As of now, the National Office of Buddhism has not issued a statement regarding the legitimacy of the nuns’ claims or whether an investigation into the matter will take place. The incident continues to raise questions about the accountability of religious figures and the management of donations within the temple community.