Songkran is not only a festival of refreshment but also traditionally regarded in Thai culture as "Wan Thoeling Sok," or Thai New Year's Day, rich with ancient beliefs and customs passed down to promote smooth and auspicious life throughout the year. What are the "Songkran taboos"? Here is a summary of what should be avoided according to ancient Thai beliefs.
1. Avoid using foul language or engaging in quarrels.
Ancient people believed the New Year should start brightly. If one curses, insults, or argues, it would cause a year filled with gloom and bad luck. This custom encourages family members to live in harmony and love.
2. Do not kill animals.
Making merit by giving alms is central to Songkran. Therefore, refraining from harming animals is important to build merit and begin the year with compassion.
3. Avoid drinking alcohol to the point of losing control.
Although nowadays water splashing often comes with drinking, traditionally Songkran is a family day. Intoxication not only violates moral precepts but also leads to accidents and quarrels, which are believed to block good luck for the New Year.
4. Do not have a gloomy or sorrowful mind.
There is a belief that "how you start the year is how it will continue." On Songkran, Thai people usually smile, visit temples to make merit, and avoid complaining or sadness to attract positive energy.
5. Avoid hard work or house chores.
Similar to the Chinese New Year custom of "a day of leisure," ancient Thais cleaned their homes before Songkran (on the day known as "Wan Jai" or "Mahasongkran") so that on New Year's Day they could fully devote time to merit-making and rest.
Besides avoiding taboos, following these traditions can make your New Year more meaningful:
Pour water over Buddha images: both those at home and in temples.
Pour water to pay respects to elders: to ask for forgiveness and receive blessings from parents or respected persons.
Bring sand to the temple: to build sand pagodas, symbolically returning the earth carried away on your feet throughout the year.
Release birds and fish: considered giving new life and creating merit through generosity.