Patron of all faiths

This explains why missionaries and proselytizers of a wide variety of faiths were tolerated and converts accepted. Moreover, the predominantly Buddhist government has never attempted to convert those of other faiths nor to impose the majority's religion on them.

This deeply ingrained belief in religious freedom also helps explain why the nation has never experienced religious war or sectarian conflict.

As the protector of all religions, His Majesty is aware of the importance of religion in his people's lives. In a talk on the eve of his birthday on Dec. 4, 1969, he commented on the role of faith in his people's lives:

"One needs a faith as the principle governing one's actions, and one needs education for knowledge—spiritual and material—so that life can be sustained. Faith and education are both important and cannot be separated."

That responsibility to protect and promote religions is also evidenced by the existence of a fund within the Department of Religious Affairs for the preservation and renovation of all places of worship and monuments, regardless of religion. Schools founded by various faiths operate openly throughout the kingdom.

In support of the second largest religion in the kingdom, Islam, His Majesty has financed the translation of Al Qur'an into Thai. Chularajamontri (Sheikul Islam), the head of Islamic affairs, is consulted on matters of importance to the Muslim community.

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