A man in Thailand who met a bizarre death during a drug-fuelled rampage inside a Buddhist temple has captured nationwide attention in China and sparked a discussion about instant karma.
On February 27, the 49-year-old man, who was under the influence of drugs, went on a chaotic and violent spree inside a temple, assaulting monks and smashing holy statues.
Concerns that he could be armed prompted the police to remain outside the place of worship at first.
However, an unsettling silence soon compelled them to venture inside the temple.
When they did so, police were shocked to find the man dead, in a pool of blood with a Buddha statue pierced through his chest.
Further investigation revealed that the man had tried to climb upon and vandalise the tallest Buddha statue in the hall and had slipped and fallen onto the sharp end of another statue below.
The impact pierced his chest and lungs.
The strange manner of his death has captured nationwide attention in China, where profound reverence for Buddha is deeply rooted in the spiritual life of people.
Throughout history and contemporary society, the tradition of “burning incense and worshipping Buddha” is cherished in China, and is regarded as a ritualistic practice to communicate with ancestors and deities.
The tradition typically involves burning three incense sticks to honour the Triple Gem: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.
Participants are expected to avoid making loud noises and demonstrate devotion and sincerity by ensuring they have clean hands before chanting, kneeling, and maintaining focus during the rituals.
The practice can also extend to burning six or nine sticks of incense, with six sticks signifying blessings for two generations, and nine representing the same for three generations.
The man’s blatant disrespect for Buddha, followed by his grisly end, has prompted many to reflect that he was the victim of instant karma on mainland social media.
On online observer said: “Is this the legendary avatar of Buddha?”
“Buddha could not watch anymore and directly took him out,” said another.
A third person said: “This is definitely instant karma, immediate retribution.
“Please do not act recklessly in temples, in front of monks and nuns, or even Buddha statues. The consequences of karma are immensely significant, and this is a very real example.
“While faith is a choice, one may choose not to believe, but please show respect. Please remember this well!”
Source: scmp.com
