Is it acceptable for a visitor to stand above a monk in Thailand?

In Thai culture, monks are held in very high regard and are considered to occupy a spiritual status that demands respect. Therefore, it is unacceptable for a visitor to stand above a monk, either physically or in a metaphorical sense. This custom stems from the belief that monks are on a higher spiritual plane due to their dedication to their religious practices. Standing above a monk could be seen as a sign of disrespect, as it implies an elevation of status that contradicts the cultural norms surrounding reverence for monastic figures.

The other options suggest varying degrees of acceptability that do not align with traditional Thai customs regarding the treatment and perception of monks. For instance, the idea of only allowing this behavior in temples or after receiving permission incorrectly implies a conditional respect that does not exist in the cultural context. Throughout the broader Thai social norms, the reverence for monks is absolute and encompasses all situations.