In a solemn and historic gesture symbolizing deep spiritual and diplomatic ties, a high-level delegation from Thailand presented an 80-volume edition of the World Tipitaka Sajjhaya Phonetic Edition to His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen of Bhutan. The ceremony took place yesterday at the Grand Kuenrey of Tashichhodzong.
The Tipitaka, or “Three Baskets,” is the oldest complete compilation of the teachings of Lord Buddha and forms the core of the Theravada Buddhist canon. Its origins trace back to the First Buddhist Council in Rajgir, held three months after the Parinirvana of the Buddha. There, his disciples gathered to systematically recite and record his teachings, which were later codified into what became known as the Tipitaka. Often referred to as the Pali Canon, it holds the same doctrinal significance for Theravada Buddhism as the Kangyur and Tengyur do in the Mahayana tradition.
This presentation marks the continuation of a legacy initiated by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) of Thailand in 1893, when the first printed edition of the Theravada Buddhist Canon was published and distributed to renowned institutions around the globe.
The gifted collection is a unique phonetic edition developed to safeguard the original Pali pronunciation and enhance the accuracy of oral recitation — a central practice in Theravada Buddhist tradition. Titled the World Tipitaka Sajjhaya Phonetic Edition, it is a dual-edition series published in 2016 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the reign of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) of Thailand.
The first 40 volumes — the King Bhumibol Adulyadej Edition — feature phonetic Pali texts in both Siam and Roman scripts. The remaining 40 volumes make up the Queen Sirikit Edition, transcribed in Pali monotone music notation. Together, these volumes serve not only as a scholarly resource but also as a tool for practitioners and monks engaged in the age-old tradition of sajjhaya — the rhythmic and meditative recitation of Buddhist scripture.
The ceremonial handover culminated in the lighting of a thousand butterlamps and collective prayers for peace and spiritual prosperity.
A representative from the World Tipitaka Foundation, the publisher of the set, emphasized the symbolic importance of the offering. “This sacred gift reflects the profound friendship between Bhutan and Thailand, rooted in a shared Buddhist heritage and the warm, enduring ties between our Royal Families,” the representative stated.
As Bhutan and Thailand continue to cherish and build upon their mutual spiritual lineage, this offering stands as a testament to the timeless bonds forged through faith, culture, and royal goodwill.
