Turning points in life: A Case Study of Phra Bodhiñāṇathera (Chah Subhaddo)

Abstract

         This research has two objectives: 1) to study significant turning points in the life of Phra Bodhiñāṇathera (Chah Subhaddo), and 2) to analyse how these events shaped Phra Bodhiñāṇathera (Chah Subhaddo)’s identity formation.

         The result of the study reveals that Phra Bodhiñāṇathera (Chah Subhaddo)’s significant life turning points occur in two major periods. 1) The Secular Period: comprising two events - his novice ordination and his subsequent transition back to lay life, and 2) The Monastic Period: comprising four significant events - the death of his father, the departure to be a forest monk (dhutaṅga), the establishment of Wat Nong Pah Pong, and the acceptance of his first foreign disciple. Furthermore, there are five key experiences that served as formative factors in his identity: disenchantment with secular life, disappointment in love, encounters with women, meditation in charnel ground, and practicing under the guidance of the senior monk during the rainy season. Regarding identity formation, the research finds that these turning points and life experiences significantly influenced the cultivation of his contemplative maturity and self-awareness, including both his strengths and weaknesses.