ROBES OF MANY COLORS : THE REPRESENTATION OF GENDER-DIVERSE MONKS AND NOVICES ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Abstract

This academic article aims to examine the portrayal of gender-diverse Buddhist monks and novices in contemporary social media, with a focus on analyzing their social roles and the impacts of this phenomenon. In Thai society, monks are revered as spiritual exemplars and cultural pillars of community life. The expression of diverse gender identities by monastic members through social media presents a noteworthy phenomenon, reflecting both the expansion of self-representation spaces and the challenging of traditional monastic frameworks. While this development has sparked social debate, it underscores the need to understand evolving social dynamics. The study reveals that gender diversity within monastic communities requires multifaceted consideration, balancing Buddhist doctrinal principles with modern values. This approach seeks to maintain the essence of monasticism while adapting to contemporary contexts. Crucially, monastic members must moderate their self-expression in accordance with both monastic discipline (Vinaya) and current social norms to preserve the credibility of monastic institutions and maintain devotees' faith, without negating individual gender identities.