Buddhaksi

Buddhaksi is a term that refers to the practice of self-immolation by Buddhist monks as a form of protest or political statement. The practice is most notably associated with the Burmese Buddhist monk, Thich Quang Duc, who set himself on fire in 1963 in Saigon, Vietnam, to protest the persecution of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese government. This act of self-immolation was a direct response to the Buddhist persecution and the government's suppression of Buddhist practices and religious freedom.

The term "Buddhaksi" is a portmanteau of "Buddha" and "suicide," reflecting the religious and political context of the actions. The practice has been criticized by some as a form of extremism and has been condemned by various religious and political leaders. However, it has also been seen by some as a powerful and symbolic act of resistance against oppression and injustice.

The practice of Buddhaksi has been documented in various forms and locations, including Thailand, where monks have set themselves on fire to protest against the military junta that ruled the country from 2006 to 2008. These acts have been met with varying degrees of condemnation and support, reflecting the complex and often contentious nature of religious and political activism.

In summary, Buddhaksi refers to the practice of self-immolation by Buddhist monks as a form of protest or political statement. The term is derived from the words "Buddha" and "suicide," and the practice has been documented in various forms and locations. While the practice has been criticized by some, it has also been seen as a powerful and symbolic act of resistance against oppression and injustice.