Flag of Thailand Symbolism Facts & Meaning: History & Trivia
I
Thailand Flag History
The flag of Thailand, referred to as the “tricolor flag” or “ธงไตรรงค์” (Thong Trairong) in Thai, is composed of red, white, and blue horizontal stripes. Over time, the appearance and meaning have both changed.
The area that is now Thailand was known as the Kingdom of Siam prior to the creation of the current Thai flag. The flags of that region had designs such as animals and regal crowns, and they symbolized multiple dynasties and kings. Introduced in the middle of King Rama IV’s reign in the 19th century, the present Thai flag was officially approved in 1917 which has a tricolor pattern of red, white, and blue.
Over time, the flag’s design has changed little, mostly in terms of size and other details, but the tricolor pattern has stayed the same. Thailand utilizes numerous flag types for various reasons. The national flag is used for public and government usage, while a variant with the royal Garuda symbol is used for royal ceremonies.
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Thailand First vs Present-Day Flag
Prior to the middle of the 1800s, Siamese flags were varied and lacked a unified style. Each dynasty and monarch had its own flag with elements, animals, and regal insignia exclusive to their reign, as well as other distinctive symbols. With Siam’s shifting dynasties and leadership, the flags changed over time, lacking a unified style.
The current Thai flag, on the other hand, was formally adopted in 1917 and has a tricolor pattern. The red is standing for the country, white for Buddhism, purity, and the monarchy, while blue for the Thai monarchy and its constitutional position. Over time, minor modifications have been made to the details and proportions, but the basic tricolor pattern has not been altered.
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Designer of Thailand Flag
There is minimal documentation on the creator of the first flag flown over Thailand, when it was still known as the Kingdom of Siam. It is difficult to assign a particular designer to Siam’s early flags because of their extensive variations and frequent associations with several reigning dynasties.
Regarding the new tricolor design with colors red, white, and blue of the modern Thai flag, its originator was not a single person. On September 28, 1917, it was formally adopted under the reign of King Vajiravudh (Rama VI). The king and his administration had a significant handle on the design, which represents the identity of the country and the importance of the monarchy in Thailand. Despite not having a single designer given credit, it is extremely important to the nation’s history and culture.
IV
Symbolic Meaning of Thailand Flag Design
The design, colors, and figures on the Thai flag have symbolic significance that embodies the nation’s character and ideals.
Design
- The simple yet striking design of the Thai flag consists of horizontal red, white, and blue stripes. The tricolor design itself reflects the unity and serenity of the country. The enduring, identifiable style is an expression of the Thai people’s desire for reliability and continuity.
Colors
- Red: represents the nation and the people of Thailand, capturing the intense affection and loyalty that Thais have for their own land.
- White: signifies Buddhism, the most prevalent religion in Thailand. It also represents Thai purity and monarchy.
- Blue: symbolizes Thailand’s monarchy and the country’s constitutional monarchical status. It highlights the monarchy’s significance in Thai history and culture.
Figures
- Other than the horizontal stripes, the flag contains no unique figures or symbols. However, during official events involving the Thai monarchy, a variation of the flag with the regal Garuda symbol in the middle is used. The Garuda is a legendary bird-like creature in Hindu and Buddhist mythology, and its placement on the flag represents the monarchy’s close link with Thai culture.
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Thailand Flag Symbolic Importance
For Thailand, the Thai flag is a highly valuable emblem. Its pattern of horizontal stripes in red, white, and blue has important symbolic implications. White stands for Buddhism and the monarchy, blue highlights the constitutional monarchy, and red denotes patriotism. As a symbol of their love for their country and ties to its rich past and culture, the flag unifies the people of Thailand. It strongly acts as a reminder of their common identity and the value of their ancestry.
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Thailand Flag Raising Ceremony
Every morning and evening, the national flag of Thailand is hoisted and lowered ceremoniously. There are several places across the nation where the custom, called the “Royal Flag Raising and Lowering Ceremony,” is carried out, including government buildings, military installations, and educational institutions. The national song, “Phleng Chat Thai,” is played to begin the ceremony, and participants are asked to stand still as the flag is raised or lowered as a sign of respect.
It is customary to lower the Thai national flag to half-mast in remembrance of notable people who have passed away, such as members of the royal family, renowned monks, or prominent national personalities. Either the government or the Royal Household Bureau decides whether to do this. The lowering of the flag is a symbol of national sadness, respect for the deceased, and mourning. It has also historically been used at times of national and international grief, such as when foreign leaders have passed away. The flag is usually flown at half-mast for a set amount of time as a symbol of respect, where the exact duration varies.
VII
Thailand Flag Rules and Etiquette
- Proper display and illumination: When flying the flag at night, it must be displayed with the highest respect, positioned appropriately with the red stripe at the top, and well lit.
- Maintenance of Flag Integrity: Prevent any change or alteration to the flag and abstain from utilizing it for commercial advantage, demonstrating the nation’s dedication to safeguarding the flag’s honor and meaning.
- Proper handling and care: To preserve the cleanliness and condition of the flag, keep your hands clean, avoid it touching the ground, and fold it with care.
- Flag Placement: Thailand’s flag should be flown in an area of honor when displayed with other flags. It is usually flown higher and in the center.
VIII
Traditional Thailand Flag Display Customs
Traditional flag display customs and practices in Thailand include a number of courteous and culturally significant flag-related activities.
- Temple and Religious Ceremonies: As a mark of respect, the Thai national flag is raised at temples and during religious rituals. It is usually raised near the site of the ceremony or in a prominent location within the temple.
- Respect for Royal Images: Thai houses and businesses display portraits of the monarchy and fly the national flag next to them, higher than other decorations. This shows respect and allegiance to the monarchy.
- State Funerals and Memorial Services: Along with the half-mast custom, the Thai flag can be flown prominently during state funerals and memorial events for noteworthy persons, including royal family members and national leaders.
- Patriotic Parades and Processions: The flag is the centerpiece of processions and parades honoring Thai culture and tradition. Participants proudly wear it, and its existence stands for the togetherness of the country.
- Sporting Events: Thai sportsmen and spectators commonly fly the flag at international competitions, such as the Olympics, as a symbol of support and solidarity for the country.
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Thailand Flag Trivia
During Songkran, the Thai New Year, there is a special meaning attached to Thailand’s national flag. People replace their regular flags for the Songkran celebration with smaller flags called “Tung,” which are made especially for the event. These Songkran flags are smaller and frequently have bright embellishments on them, but they still feature the classic tricolor pattern. People will use these flags to adorn their houses and cars during Songkran, bringing a joyful and festive element to the flag’s symbolic meaning. Thai people use it as a means of celebrating this significant festival and expressing their sense of pride in their country and culture.
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Thailand Flag in Legends and Mythology
Three gods are given credit for making the Thai flag, known as the Trairanga: Phra Indra, the deity of thunder and rain; Phra Brahma, the god of creation; and Phra Vishnu, the god of preservation. These deities chose the hues red, white, and blue to represent the blood, purity, and loyalty of the Thai people, inspired by their nation’s enduring power and commitment. The flag is a treasured representation of Thai pride, solidarity, and core principles.
