Watch a friendly feline test a Buddhist monk's patience

A Thai temple cat's bid for affection during solemn Buddhist prayers for the new year on Tuesday was enough to test the patience of a monk trying to maintain his concentration. Video of the saffron-robed monk gently trying to push away the cat who crawled into his lap during the five-hour-long prayers delighted Thais who saw the footage on Facebook.

"I was trying to read the book. But I was more focused on the cat," said the 25-year-monk, who uses the monastic name Luang Pi Komkrit Taechachoto. The video was originally posted on public Facebook group "Cats' Slaves" and was soon reposted on different pages. It has gained around 300,000 views collectively and was also replayed on Thai TV.

VIDEO: REUTERS

[invisi-bullexploration]

Sometimes you seek peace. Sometimes peace seeks you. For cuddles.

[ShinigamiAleksi]

“I do not understand. You are in cat-receiving position. Why are you not petting me?” 😹

[okami]

He was trying to read? That explains everything. Anyone whose tried to read a book near a cat can vouch, it’s impossible.

[eliseintheattic]

When you have been chosen by the cat, accept your fate. -Catfucious

[stevenkies]

When an irresistible force meets an immovable object.

[rachelburnell]

‘In ancient times, cats were worshipped as Gods....they have not forgotten this’

-Terry Practchett

[randys]

"Quit ignoring me, I'm your grandpa dammit!"

[ttyngordon]

I'm sure any god would understand if you pet the cat.

[KaputOtter]

If death is certain, and time of death is uncertain, then what is the most important thing, right now? Why, it's petting the cat, of course.

I’d say that monk achieved enlightenment and doesn’t even realize it.

[shirleyellinger]

He wants to pet him so bad but he doesnt want the other monks to see

[destho]

Monk is like: "Cut it out cat, I'm professionally praying here."
Cat: "I love you human."
To be continued...

[suckmyspaghettimonster]

Paws on chest is cats way of saying "this human is mine".

[littlebopeeps]

The cat is drawn to the beautiful energy.

[amalgamationprime]

The cat probably has a very important message that he was going to relay upon the chosen Buddhist monk.

[NoJusticeNoPeace]

Clearly a kind Buddha attempting to remind the monk to be here now.

[roebuddy]

This Hooman is the chosen one. 😼: I choose him.

[TotalTuxedo]

It was "Bring Your Cat To Work Day"
He was the only one who did

[Stevegta]

I was expecting someone to shout: "Just pet it already!"

[arvieflores]

Man: Stop interrupting. I'm meditating to have peace of mind.
Cat: You don't need meditation. You just need a cat to find peace of mind. Love you human.
Cat: Now let's go home and have some fishy talk about our dinner for tonight.