I’m currently in Bangkok and had a small but interesting interaction the other day and I’m curious if this is something cultural.
I was at a cinema (Major) and sat down near a power outlet to charge my phone. There was already a middle-aged lady sitting nearby with her belongings placed there before I arrived.
After a while, she spoke to me in Thai, I couldn’t understand, but I assumed she was asking me to keep an eye on her things while she went somewhere (there was a fan signing event nearby with people lining up holding papers/notes). I nodded since I was just sitting there anyway.
Later she came back and tried to talk to me again. When she realized I didn’t speak Thai, she switched to simple English and asked where I’m from. She was very friendly, smiling a lot and even showed me photos of herself when she was younger, told me her name and where she works and her occupation.
After awhile, she said she had a small gift for me and gave me a Buddha pendant, I think it’s called Phra Nak Prok (searched Google for it).
She didn’t ask for anything at all, just gave it to me.
I’m not familiar with Thai culture, so I’m curious:
- Is it common for people to give amulets like this to strangers?
- Does this type (Phra Nak Prok) have a specific meaning?
- Is it okay to keep it?
It felt kind, just a bit unexpected, so I’d love to understand the cultural context. Thanks!