BANGKOK, Thailand – The Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, His Holiness Somdet Phra Ariyavongsagatayana, has delivered a New Year message for 2026, offering guidance and blessings to the Thai people as the country enters the new year. The address encouraged the public to strengthen moral resolve and inner discipline as a foundation for personal conduct and social stability.
His Holiness acknowledged that the past year brought profound loss and hardship, including national sorrow over the passing of a revered royal figure and the impact of severe challenges, including natural disasters and security threats. Despite these difficulties, he pointed to the enduring resilience of Thai society and its capacity to endure adversity.
The Supreme Patriarch described gratitude as a core virtue in Thai culture and a source of strength during times of crisis. He said this value has guided acts of compassion, mutual support, and remembrance of sacrifice, allowing communities to assist one another and overcome hardship.
His Holiness urged people to uphold gratitude as a guiding principle in daily life, linking it to honesty, restraint, and responsibility toward parents, teachers, institutions, and the nation. He noted that this moral foundation helps prevent harmful behavior and builds trust within society.
The message concluded with blessings for peace, wisdom, and well-being throughout 2026. He invoked spiritual merit and virtuous conduct as forces that would support national stability, safeguard the monarchy and royal family, and bring lasting happiness and security to the Thai people. (NNT)
