Religion

Buddhism plays a central role in the people’s daily life in Myanmar. A large majority of the population is of Buddhist faith. They live by its principles of gentleness, contentment and helpfulness. There are 2 major churches in Buddhism: Mahayana and Theravada. The latter form dominates in Myanmar and meditation is central to its followers; it led through a succession of stages to the final goal of spiritual freedom, also called nirvana. Meditation combines, in its highest stages, the discipline of progressively increased introversion with the insight brought about by wisdom. Buddhist faith embraces the concept of life after death and recognizes 31 forms of beings, 6 floors of heaven, and 7 floors of hell.

 

The other form of spirituality often seen in Myanmar is the ancient traditional beliefs about the 37 Nats (spirits), who are viewed as supernaturally powerful beings, situated between the gods and the spiritual beings. The number of the Nats was set in the 12th century in order to contain a cult that Buddhism had failed to eliminate. And Myanmar remains superstitious in many ways. Its people carry out the traditions and cultural heritage of the older generations. They believe that the Nats can bring luck and prosperity to the worshippers and can also bring danger to those who do not respect them.

 

The official religious faith repartition in Myanmar is Buddhist 89%, Christian 4% (Baptist 3%, Roman Catholic 1%), Islam 4%, Animist 1% and other 2%.

Culture

Myanmar has a long history dating back several thousand years. The traditions and culture of Myanmar as well as the philosophy of life of its people, the majority of whom are Buddhists, have been shaped profoundly by Buddhism and the worshiping of ancient Nat (spirits). Hence, Myanmar’s people, regardless of their race or ethnic origin are peace-loving, friendly, generous and hospitable. They also have an innate sense of duty to family, community and country.

 

Myanmar culture is also inspired by the Chinese and Indian traditions, and it can claim to have retained its own beliefs and culture due to the post-war and post-independence national isolation policy. The culture is complex and rich. Each of the 135 national races that comprise the Myanmar nation has its own language, dialect and characteristics. They live in harmony with each other and with nature, most of them dwelling in remote areas. The major ethnic groups are the Kachin, the Kayah, the Kavin, the Chin, the Mon, the Bamar, the Rakline, and the Shan.

 

An interesting tradition, taking place particularly in rural areas, is to see the people collectively helping with one another’s work and participating in communal activities. These traditional practices not only contribute to community development but also bring members of the community closer and thus help to foster solidarity in the building of a peaceful and developed nation.

 

The benevolent prince, called Lawkanat is often portrayed in Myanmar and regarded as the patron of the performing arts. He stands for peace and harmony, happiness and joy and all that is right and good. His role as a peacemaker is based on a fascinating legend handed down through the generations. It is also the favourite subject of Myanmar's sculpture and painting, and its graceful figure is frequently seen adorning the Myanmar traditional orchestra.