Reflection on Coexist Principles based on E-san Customary Laws: a Case study of Ancient Law of Saket Nakorn and the Dao-Wa-Dueng

Abstract

     The purposes of this study were to: 1) study the Coexist Principles of the Ancient Laws of Saket Nakorn and the Dao-Wa-Dueng versions, 2) reflect on the principles of living as collective members in society related to the ancient laws of Saket Nakorn and the Dao-Wa-Dueng Issues. The researchers employed qualitative research approach for data collection. The document analysis and in-depth interview with six experts were conducted. The descriptive analysis and narrative report were implemented. It was found that in the past, E-san society was governed based on Buddhist principles. The law was always enacted for people to believe in and pay homage to Buddhist as highly aspect in their lives. This approach was considered to be the govern approach of local administration even though during such period, there were quite a number of laws, but it was not well-categorized into chapters. It showed the simple way of life in the society with no complication. The content of laws were specified only the crucial ones such as the aspect of enriching Buddhism, pay respect to the govern class, aspect of adultery, trample on animals and crops, brawl, robbery, and debt. All these aspects were concerned with five Buddhist precepts. Moreover, ancient E-san society was not only stipulated law to control the society, E-san people were also  based their ways of life on participating in activities of merit making all year round as well as held on the practice of “Heed Sip-Song Klong Sip-See” (14 principles) as the main principle for govern the country. The general public was also based their practices on the fourteen principles which was reflected on the situation of collective rules for the society in that era.