Section 9 of the Thai Constitution states that "The King is a Buddhist and Upholder of all Religions." This concept of supporting the 5.8% of the population which does not profess Buddhism, extends far back into Thai history, a principle that has always been upheld by Thai onarchs. It explains why missionaries and proselytisers of a wide variety of faiths were tolerated and converts accepted. Moreover, the predominantly Buddhist government has never attempted to convert those of other faiths nor to impose the majority's religion on them. This deeply-ingrained belief in religious freedom helps explain why the nation has never experienced religious war or sectarian conflict.

As the protector of all religions, His Majesty is aware of the importance of religion in his people's lives. In a talk on the eve of his Birthday on 4 December 1969, he commented on the role of faith in his people's lives:

"One needs a faith.as the principle governing one's actions, and one needs education, for knowledge, spiritual and material, so that life can be sustained. Faith and education are both important, and cannot be separated."

That responsibility to protect and promote religions is also evidenced by the existence of a fund within the Department of Religious Affairs for the preservation and renovation of all places of worship and monuments, regardless of religion. Schools founded by various faiths operate openly throughout the Kingdom.