Colours in Thai language

Hi, everybody.  How are you? 🙂

This lesson we’ll learn Thai more. Today we will learn about Thai ‘colour’, the importance of colour in Thai Culture and some question about colours. The word sĭi is both the noun colour and the verb to be the colour…. . Sĭi occurs before a specific colour word when describing the colour of something.

For example;

1) Q: คุณ ชอบ สี อะไร (kun chôrp sĭi à-rai)  =  What colour do you like?

A: ผม ชอบ สี ฟ้า (sĭi fáa)  =  I like blue.

2) Q: คุณ มี เสื้อ สี ฟ้า ไหม (kun mii sûa sĭi fáa mái)  =  Do you have a blue T-shirt?

A: มี (mii)  =  Yes, I have.

*for the question partical ‘mái?’. When you want to answer this question. The pattern is ‘repeated verb or adjective in the question’ for say ‘Yes.’ and ‘mâi + repeated verb or adjective in the question’ for say ‘No.’

Colours in Thai Culture

Colors in Thai culture hold profound meanings and are deeply intertwined with religious, royal, and astrological beliefs. The vibrant symbolism of colors is reflected in the daily lives of the Thai people, from the clothes they wear to the decorations used in ceremonies and festivals. The Thai language provides unique ways of expressing these color associations, highlighting the cultural significance attached to each hue. Understanding these colors and their cultural meanings opens a window into the deeply spiritual and reverential aspects of Thai society.

Colors and Days of the Week

One of the most prominent ways colors manifest in Thai culture is through their association with the days of the week. Each day is linked to a specific color, a concept known as “si wan” (สีวัน), meaning “color of the day.” This practice stems from ancient astrological traditions, where different planets, deities, or astrological elements govern each day, and colors serve as their symbolic representation. Many Thais believe that wearing the right color on the corresponding day brings good luck and harmony.

For instance, Sunday is associated with “si daeng” (สีแดง), or red, symbolizing power, courage, and authority. Red is seen as an auspicious color, often worn on Sundays to invoke strength and positive energy. Monday is linked to “si luang” (สีเหลือง), or yellow, a color closely tied to the revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who was born on a Monday. Yellow has thus become a symbol of loyalty to the monarchy, and many people wear yellow shirts on Mondays as a sign of respect and devotion.

Tuesday’s color is “si chomphu” (สีชมพู), or pink, which represents love, kindness, and compassion. Pink is a softer color compared to red, but it still embodies warmth and care, often associated with nurturing qualities. On Wednesday, the color changes depending on the time of day: “si kheo” (สีเขียว), or green, is for daytime, symbolizing growth, peace, and harmony with nature. In contrast, “si fai” (สีฟ้า), or light blue, is worn for the evening and night, reflecting calmness and serenity. Thursday is represented by “si som” (สีส้ม), or orange, a color that signifies creativity, enthusiasm, and energy, often tied to the Buddhist faith. Friday is “si fa” (สีฟ้า), or blue, symbolizing tranquility and devotion, while Saturday’s color is “si muang” (สีม่วง), or purple, representing wealth, power, and dignity.

Colors in Thai Spirituality and Religion

Thailand is predominantly a Buddhist nation, and colors also have strong ties to religious beliefs and practices. In Buddhism, colors often carry deep symbolic meaning, reflecting different virtues or spiritual qualities. For example, “si khao” (สีขาว), or white, is commonly associated with purity, peace, and enlightenment. Monks in some sects wear white robes during certain periods, and white is also the color used in various rituals and ceremonies, particularly in funerals. In Thai funerals, mourners often wear white to symbolize the transition from one life to the next, aligning with Buddhist beliefs in reincarnation and the impermanence of life.

“Si namngern” (สีน้ำเงิน), or blue, is another important color in Thai spirituality. Blue is associated with calmness, devotion, and meditation. It is often used in religious settings, particularly in temples where blue is painted on walls or used in the décor to create a serene and meditative atmosphere. Blue is also linked to the Queen of Thailand, Queen Sirikit, as she was born on a Friday, a day represented by blue.

Orange, or “si som” (สีส้ม), is deeply connected to Buddhism as it is the color of monk robes, symbolizing renunciation, humility, and the pursuit of enlightenment. The tradition of wearing orange robes dates back to the time of the Buddha, and it continues to hold significant meaning in Thai society today. The sight of monks in their orange robes is a daily reminder of the spiritual path and the values of simplicity and compassion.

Colors in Thai Astrology and Belief Systems

In addition to their religious and royal associations, colors in Thai culture also play a crucial role in astrology and personal fortune. Many Thais consult astrologers to determine which colors are auspicious or unlucky for them based on their zodiac sign or birth date. Wearing specific colors can influence one’s luck, health, and overall well-being.

For example, red, or “si daeng” (สีแดง), is believed to enhance energy and vitality, making it a popular color for celebrations, particularly during the Chinese New Year or other festive occasions. On the other hand, black, or “si dam” (สีดำ), is generally considered an inauspicious color, associated with death, grief, and mourning. It is traditionally worn during funerals but avoided in other contexts to prevent bad luck.

Green, or “si kheo” (สีเขียว), representing nature, fertility, and balance, is considered a lucky color for people born under the Taurus zodiac sign, enhancing their connection with the earth and bringing harmony into their lives. Similarly, pink, or “si chomphu” (สีชมพู), is often worn to attract love and affection, especially for those seeking to improve relationships or find romantic partners.

Colors and the Monarchy

The Thai monarchy is another key aspect where colors hold great importance. As mentioned earlier, yellow, or “si luang” (สีเหลือง), is closely associated with the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and the color has become synonymous with royal loyalty. On significant national holidays, such as the King’s birthday, it is common to see streets filled with people wearing yellow shirts as a tribute to the monarchy.

Similarly, blue, or “si namngern” (สีน้ำเงิน), is associated with Queen Sirikit, and this color also symbolizes devotion to the royal family. On the Queen’s birthday, which is also celebrated as Mother’s Day in Thailand, people wear blue to show their respect and love for the Queen.

Everyday Use of Colors

Beyond religious, astrological, and royal symbolism, colors in Thailand play a practical role in daily life. The use of specific colors can be seen in homes, businesses, and even vehicles, where people choose colors based on their perceived effects on luck and fortune. For example, it is not uncommon for business owners to paint their shops or offices in auspicious colors to attract prosperity. Similarly, car owners may select specific car colors believed to prevent accidents or invite good luck on the road.

In conclusion, colors in Thai culture are much more than aesthetic choices; they are deeply embedded in the spiritual, astrological, and royal fabric of the nation. From the days of the week to religious practices and personal beliefs, colors in Thailand reflect a profound understanding of harmony, balance, and respect for both the divine and the monarchy. Through the lens of the Thai language, these colors reveal the rich layers of meaning that continue to influence Thai society and its traditions.

Colours Vocabulary

By Prae
Thai Language Teacher