The current Thai year is 2566 BE, which is 543 years before the Gregorian calendar year (2023). While Thai New Year’s Day (Songkran) is celebrated on April 13th, the calendar year begins on January 1st.
The Buddhist Era is represented by the BE acronym in 2566 BE. It is also known as the Thai Lunar Calendar since it is based on the lunar and solar cycles, with each year consisting of 12 lunar months and each lunar month beginning with a new moon.
The Buddhist Era calendar begins with the death of Gautama Buddha, which is thought to have occurred in 544 BC according to the Gregorian calendar. As a result, the Gregorian calendar year 2023 AD/CE corresponds to the Buddhist Era calendar year 2566 BE.
When did the Thai calendar start?
The Thai calendar started in 543 BCE, which is the year in which Gautama Buddha died. The Buddhist Era (BE) is used in Thailand and other countries in Southeast Asia. The year 2023 CE corresponds to B.E. 2566.
The Thai calendar is a lunisolar calendar, which means it is based on both the lunar and solar cycles. In the Thai calendar, a year has 12 or 13 months, each having 15 waxing moon days and 14 or 15 waning moon days. The months are named after seasons or significant events in Buddhist history.
The days of the week in the Thai calendar are based on the Chinese zodiac. The animals in the Thai zodiac are:
- Rat
- Ox
- Tiger
- Rabbit
- Dragon
- Snake
- Horse
- Goat
- Monkey
- Rooster
- Dog
- Pig
Thailand uses the Thai calendar for both official and traditional reasons. For some applications, such as international commercial transactions, the Gregorian calendar is also utilized.
What is the Buddhist calendar?
The Buddhist calendar is a collection of lunisolar calendars predominantly used for religious or official purposes by Chinese people in Tibet, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, as well as Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam. While the calendars have a common ancestor, there are subtle but significant differences like as intercalation schedules, month names and numbers, cycle use, and so on. The term Buddhist Era refers to a year numbering scheme shared by the old Thai lunar calendar and the Thai solar calendar in Thailand.
Southeast Asian lunisolar calendars are generally based on an earlier variant of the Hindu calendar[1] that use the sidereal year as the solar year. The Southeast Asian systems, unlike their Indian counterparts, do not employ apparent reckoning to keep time with the sidereal year. They instead use their own variations of the Metonic cycle. However, because the Metonic cycle is inaccurate for sidereal years, the Southeast Asian calendar is gradually moving out of sync with the sidereal, about one day every 100 years. Despite this, no coordinated structural adjustments of the lunisolar calendar have been implemented.
The original Buddhist lunisolar calendar is now mostly utilized for Theravada Buddhist festivities. Thailand’s official calendar is the Thai Buddhist Era, a renumbered Gregorian calendar.
Why do the Thai use the Buddhist year
The Thai use the Buddhist year because Buddhism is the dominant religion in Thailand. The Buddhist calendar is based on the death of Gautama Buddha, who is considered to be the founder of Buddhism. The Thai people believe that the Buddhist calendar is a more accurate way to measure time than the Gregorian calendar, which is based on the birth of Jesus Christ.
The Buddhist calendar is also used in other countries in Southeast Asia, such as Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. It is also used by some Buddhist communities in other parts of the world.
The Thai government officially adopted the Buddhist calendar in 1912. However, it has been used in Thailand for centuries, and it is still used for many traditional purposes, such as religious ceremonies and festivals.
Here are some of the reasons why the Thai use the Buddhist year:
- Buddhism is the dominant religion in Thailand. The Buddhist calendar is based on the death of Gautama Buddha, who is considered to be the founder of Buddhism. The Thai people believe that the Buddhist calendar is a more accurate way to measure time than the Gregorian calendar, which is based on the birth of Jesus Christ.
- The Buddhist calendar is used in other countries in Southeast Asia. The Buddhist calendar is also used in other countries in Southeast Asia, such as Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. This makes it easier for people from these countries to communicate with each other.
- The Buddhist calendar is still used for many traditional purposes. The Buddhist calendar is still used for many traditional purposes in Thailand, such as religious ceremonies and festivals. This helps to preserve the Thai culture and heritage.
How to convert Thai year to English year?
To convert a Thai year to an English (Gregorian) year, you need to subtract 543 from the Thai year. This is because the Thai calendar is based on the Buddhist Era (BE), which is 543 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar. Here’s how you can do the conversion:
English Year = Thai Year – 543
For example:
- Thai Year 2565 (BE) would be equivalent to English Year 2022 (AD).
- Thai Year 2540 (BE) would be equivalent to English Year 1997 (AD).
Simply subtracting 543 from the Thai year will give you the corresponding English year.
Which year do Thais use in everyday life?
In everyday life, Thais primarily use the Thai Buddhist Era (BE) year as their calendar system. The Thai Buddhist Era is 543 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar used in most of the world. For example, if the current year in the Gregorian calendar is 2023, the corresponding year in the Thai Buddhist Era would be 2566.
The Thai Buddhist Era is widely used in official documents, government records, business transactions, and cultural events throughout Thailand. However, in international contexts or when dealing with foreigners, Thais might also refer to the Gregorian calendar year to avoid confusion.
The diffrence between Thai Lunar calendar and Gregorian calendar
The Thai Lunar calendar and the Gregorian calendar are two distinct calendar systems with different methods of timekeeping. Here are the key differences between them:
Origin and Basis:
- Gregorian Calendar: The Gregorian calendar is a solar calendar based on the Earth’s revolution around the sun. It was introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582 as a reform of the Julian calendar.
- Thai Lunar Calendar: The Thai Lunar calendar is based on the cycles of the moon and is closely related to the religious and cultural practices of Thailand. It’s used in conjunction with the Thai solar calendar.
Calendar Length:
- Gregorian Calendar: The Gregorian calendar has 365 or 366 days in a year, with months of varying lengths and leap years added to align with the solar year.
- Thai Lunar Calendar: The Thai Lunar calendar has 354 or 355 days in a year and is based on lunar months. An extra month is added approximately every 2-3 years to synchronize the lunar calendar with the solar year.
Months and Days:
- Gregorian Calendar: The Gregorian calendar has 12 months of varying lengths, totaling 365 or 366 days. Months are not tied to lunar phases.
- Thai Lunar Calendar: The Thai Lunar calendar also has 12 months, but they are based on the moon’s phases. Each month starts with the new moon and has either 29 or 30 days.
New Year Celebration:
- Gregorian Calendar: The Gregorian New Year is celebrated on January 1st.
- Thai Lunar Calendar: The Thai New Year, known as Songkran, is based on the solar calendar and is celebrated from April 13th to 15th.
Usage:
- Gregorian Calendar: The Gregorian calendar is the internationally accepted calendar system and is used for official purposes, business transactions, and daily life in most countries.
- Thai Lunar Calendar: The Thai Lunar calendar is used alongside the Thai solar calendar for cultural and religious events in Thailand. It’s not used for official business or civil matters.
It’s important to note that while the Thai Lunar calendar plays a significant role in Thai culture, the official calendar system used for administrative purposes in Thailand is the Thai solar calendar, which is based on the Buddhist Era (BE) and is 543 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar.
What is the Rattanakosin Era Calendar in Thailand?
The Rattanakosin Era is a year-counting system that began with the establishment of the Chakri Dynasty in 1782, when King Rama I, Phra Phutthayotfa Chulalok Maharaj, came to the throne. This period system is named after King Rama I’s capital city of Rattanakosin. This name translates to “Indra’s Jewel.” The city was in the same region as Thailand’s modern capital, Bangkok.
The Rattanakosin Era is mostly utilized for historical and cultural purposes, and it is frequently mentioned in Thailand when discussing Chakri Dynasty events, monuments, and landmarks. The iconic Grand Palace in Bangkok, for example, was erected during the Rattanakosin Era.
To figure out what the current Rattanakosin Era year is add 1,781 years to the Western (Gregorian) year from April 6th to December, and 1,782 years from January to April 5th.
Facts About The Thai Lunar Calendar
1. Lunisolar Nature Of The Thai Lunar Calendar
The Thai lunar calendar, known as (Patithin Chantarakhati) in Thai, is lunisolar, which means it incorporates both lunar and solar elements.
This implies that, while the phases of the moon define the months, the calendar also takes the solar year into account to keep the calendar in sync with the seasons.
The Thai lunar calendar is able to maintain a steady link between the moon and the sun because of this unusual mix.
2. The Thai Lunar Calendar Approximates The Solar Year
One of the most intriguing elements of the Thai lunar calendar is how well it corresponds to the solar year.
The Thai lunar calendar is adjusted to assure alignment with the solar year by including an extra month known as an intercalary month, or Adhikamasa (), every two to three years.
This change contributes to the calendar’s accuracy and prevents substantial alterations in the dates of important cultural events and festivals.
3. Thai Buddhist Era (BE) And Conversion To The Gregorian Calendar
The Thai lunar calendar is 543 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar and is based on the Thai Buddhist Era (BE).
2023 in the Gregorian calendar, for example, corresponds to 2566 in the Thai Buddhist Era.
Simply subtract 543 from the BE year to convert a BE date to a Gregorian date. This conversion is necessary for comprehending historical events and their significance in Thai history.
4. Number Of Months And Their Lengths
The Thai lunar calendar is divided into 12 months, each of which lasts between 29 and 30 days.
The months alternate in duration, with odd-numbered months having 30 days and even-numbered months having 29.
This arrangement keeps the lunar year in line with the moon’s phases, which take around 29.5 days to complete.
5. Intercalary Month (Adhikamasa Or Adhik Mueang)
As previously stated, the Thai lunar calendar includes an intercalary month known as Adhikamasa () or Adhik Mueang () to preserve alignment with the solar year.
This extra month is added every two to three years, usually after the eighth lunar month.
This modification guarantees that the calendar remains accurate and prevents large adjustments in the scheduling of Thailand’s major cultural events and festivals.
6. Normal Month And Leap Month Lunar Years
A year in the Thai lunar calendar can be either regular or leap, depending on whether an intercalary month is added.
A regular year has 12 months and 354 days, but a leap year has 13 months and 384 days.
The Thai lunar calendar, by integrating the intercalary month, maintains a near approximation to the solar year, lasting around 365.25 days.
7. Lunar Calendar Days Number
Each day in Thai calendars is assigned a number based on its position within the lunar month.
The numbering system starts with the first day of the waxing moon (วันขึ้น; wan kheun) and ends with the last day of the waning moon (วันแก่; wan kae).
This numbering system allows Thai people to easily track the progression of the lunar month and plan events or activities around the moon’s phases.
For example, the full moon (วันเพ็ญ; wan pen) typically falls on the 15th day of the waxing moon, while the new moon (วันจันทร์; wan jan) is usually on the 15th day of the waning moon.
By understanding the number of lunar calendar days, Thai people can align their cultural and religious practices with the natural lunar cycles.
8. Use Of The Thai Lunar Calendar On Buddhist Holidays
Thailand is primarily a Buddhist country, and significant Buddhist holidays are determined by the Thai solar calendar.
For example, Visakha Bucha () celebrates the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death and is commemorated on the full moon of the sixth lunar month.
Similarly, Asalha Bucha (), which commemorates the Buddha’s first sermon, is observed on the full moon of the eighth lunar month.
Thai people can observe these holy days by the moon’s phases by following the lunar calendar, which is an important aspect in Buddhist tradition.
9. Auspicious Days For Life Events
The lunar calendar is also employed in Thai culture to identify auspicious days for important life events such as marriages, housewarmings, and religious celebrations.
Thais frequently seek the advice of monks or astrologers to assist them select the most ideal dates for these festivities depending on the lunar cycle.
This tradition reflects the concept that the phases and placements of the moon can impact the success and harmony of these important occasions.
10. Songkran: The Thai New Year
Songkran, or Thai New Year, is Thailand’s most important event.
Although it is established by the Thai solar calendar rather than the lunar calendar, it is worth mentioning because to its importance in Thai culture.
Songkran, which is celebrated from April 13th to 15th, celebrates the beginning of the new solar year and is noted for its boisterous water-splashing activities.
This joyful festival brings families and communities together in a spirit of rebirth and community.
11. Loy Krathong: Festival Of Lights
Loy Krathong is a lovely Thai event that takes place on the full moon of the twelfth lunar month.
During this magical celebration, individuals release miniature, artistically adorned floats known as krathongs () into rivers, canals, and ponds to honor the goddess of water and request forgiveness for any wrongdoings.
The event represents the release of bad feelings and the beginning of a new life. It’s a moment for introspection and appreciation for the wonders of life.
12. a major lunar festival
In addition to Loy Krathong, several other lunar festivals are incorporated into Thai culture.
These events often revolve around the full moon and mark an important moment in the Thai Buddhist calendar.
An example of such a festival is Makha Bucha.
It celebrates Buddha’s teachings on the fifteenth day of the third lunar month.
Also, the Burmese festival of light, Tadingyut, celebrates the end of Lent in Buddhism on the fifteenth day of November in the lunar calendar.
The festival shows the rich tapestries of Thai cultural heritage and the importance of the lunar calendar in Thai people’s lives.
13. the full moon and the holy day of Buddhism
The holy day of Buddhism, known as Wanfra, is observed in the full moon, the crescent moon, and the second quarter of the lunar calendar every month.
This holy day is important in Thai Buddhism because it is dedicated to spiritual practice and reflection.
These days, many Thai Buddhists visit temples to build merit, meditate, and listen to monks’ teachings.
The lunar calendar helps Thai people keep track of this important day and maintain spiritual practices in harmony with the moon’s status.
14. Thai astrology and lunar calendar
Thai astrology is deeply related to the lunar calendar. The moon’s status and location are thought to have a powerful impact on human life and events.
Astrologers often make fortunes by referring to the lunar calendar and predict an individual’s auspicious or sinister period based on his or her birth date.
This ancient wisdom helps Thai people explore life’s challenges and make informed decisions in harmony with the universe.
15. Official Recognition of the Royal Thai Government
The Thai royal government officially recognizes the Thai lunar calendar with the Thai solar calendar to preserve the country’s cultural heritage.
Government offices, schools and other institutions observe holidays and anniversaries based on the Thai lunar calendar.
This ensures that this long tradition remains an integral part of Thai society.
16. Thai lunar calendar with modern Thai birth certificate
As proof of the continuing importance of the Thai lunar calendar, the Thai birth certificate includes both the Gregorian calendar and the date of birth of the Thai lunar calendar.
This practice ensures that future generations of Thais can maintain their cultural roots and connections while respecting their ancestral wisdom and heritage.