F
Fakir
A Muslim who has taken a vow of poverty.
Farang
Thai word for a white-skinned foreigner, derived from a word referring to France.
Feng shui
Natural elements of wind and water used in a geomagnetic system, which determines
the orientation of dwellings, cities, and graves in order to harmonize correctly
with nature. A dousing rod and astrological compass are used for this purpose.
Four Noble Truths
The basic teachings of the Buddha. The First Noble Truth is that suffering exists;
the second is that suffering is caused by clinging to that which is pleasant;
the third is that after discovering the origin of suffering one can put an end
to it; and the fourth is the Noble Eightfold Part, the way leading to the cessation
of suffering.
Finial
Delicate ornamental work of metallic thread usually made of gold or silver.
Fresco
Usually a mural painting done by applying mineral or earth pigments onto wet
lime plaster.
Funan
According to Chinese chronicles, an Indianized state founded in the 1st
century C.E., and the precursor to Combodia. It dominated the Mekong and Chao
Phya valley regions between the 2nd and 6th centuries
C.E.