The Thai Lottery is one of only two forms of legal gambling in Thailand, and it’s played by over 19 million people; 28.6% of the country’s population. But this bi-monthly lottery draws more than just money, it also sparks intense social and spiritual beliefs around numbers, and how they relate to luck. This process isn’t always easy to understand for an outsider.
Bom’s elaborate method of choosing his lottery numbers is a first glimpse into the many hidden nuances within this lottery culture. With a conspiratorial wink, he pulls out his phone and begins displaying a chart containing a wheel and a set of digits. He then starts scribbling down a row of numbers, using the chart as reference. Next, he starts crossing out these numbers in a particular pattern until he’s left with just two digits: 0 and 1. His meticulous approach is a sign of how seriously he takes his numbers.
These methods aren’t exclusive to Bom, and there are countless others who use different rituals to choose their lottery numbers. For example, a popular ritual involves shaking a cup of sticks marked with numbers; the number that falls out is thought to be the lucky one. This activity is often done in a temple, where the water basin is believed to be holy. In January, the Sawang Arom temple in Phichit province was a hot spot for lottery fans to try out this fortune telling ritual.
Other people choose their lottery numbers by relying on omens and signs. According to Nidhi, a lot of people believe that certain animals’ behaviours can reveal their future number. This belief is especially common in the countryside, where locals will often look for signs that a tortoise has been eating too much or sleeping a lot in its cage; these animals are said to have a good chance of becoming lottery numbers.
The most important thing for a lottery player is to know how to make the best decision when choosing their numbers. If they can choose the right ones, it will greatly increase their chances of winning
While many wealthy people play the lottery, a large majority of players are poor and lower middle class. A study published in the International Gambling Studies Journal in 2006 revealed that about two-thirds of lottery players were in the lowest income bracket. Dreaming of big prizes may seem like an extravagant pursuit for those who don’t have much to begin with, but these hopes are a crucial source of hope and optimism for people living in poverty.
In addition to official government lotteries, private companies have sprung up to cater to the needs of lottery players. These private agencies offer better odds, credit purchases, and other features that appeal to modern punters. They have become a huge draw for Thai expats, who are used to bigger prizes, a higher likelihood of winning, and the convenience of placing orders online.
