Buddhism and sociocultural changes in Thailand: From Buddhist chant to rap

Abstract This study explores the intersection of Buddhism and sociocultural changes in Thailand, focusing on the transition from traditional Buddhist chant to contemporary rap. Employing Pierre Bourdieu's theories of cultural capital and the sociology of music, this article aims to show how this shift in Buddhist music mirrors broader transformations within the religious and cultural landscape. Employing the concept of convergence helps us to highlight that Thailand's sociocultural changes have emerged from the dynamic interplay of multiple factors and actors over time. This approach also facilitates a nuanced exploration of the evolution of Buddhist music as a manifestation of the cultural flows and power dynamics within Buddhism that have shaped modern musical expressions. This study then highlights the implications of these findings for understanding cultural identity and community engagement within contemporary Buddhist practices, particularly in an increasingly globalised context.