A Study of the Buddhist Principles That Appear in the Tai Ethnic Group's Jong Para Procession Tradition, Ban Muang Pon, Khun Yuam District, Mae Hong Son Provinceprovince

Abstract

This research aimed to: (1) study the history and background of the Jong Para procession tradition in Mae Hong Son Province; (2) study the Buddhist principles reflected in the Jong Para tradition of the Tai ethnic group in Ban Muang Pon, Khun Yuam District, Mae Hong Son Province; and (3) analyze the Buddhist principles embodied in this tradition. This is a qualitative study conducted through in-depth interviews with 26 key informants. Data were analyzed through descriptive content analysis.

          The research results revealed that:

          1) The history and background of the Jong Para procession in Mae Hong Son Province show that it is a religious and cultural ritual of the Tai ethnic group held during the end of Buddhist Lent (Ok Phansa). Communities construct beautifully decorated Jong Para, small pavilions or symbolic structures, to be offered as merit-making acts for the Buddha and dedicated to deceased ancestors, reflecting the community’s faith, beliefs, and local wisdom.

          2) The Buddhist principles that appear in this tradition include: (1) Dana (generosity), the collective effort of the community to organize the event and share offerings; (2) Sila (moral precepts), maintaining precepts, listening to Dhamma talks, making merit, and following Buddhist teachings; (3) Bhavana (mental cultivation/wisdom development), participants keep their minds calm, attentively listen to chants and sermons to cultivate mindfulness, concentration, and insight; (4) Gratitude (Katannukatavedi), dedicating merit to ancestors, showing respect to benefactors, and cooperating to care for the community and its religious activities; (5) Sangha Samaggi (community harmony), collaboration between monks and laypeople in organizing and decorating the Jong Para, strengthening unity and social bonds through collective spiritual practice.

          3) Analysis of the Buddhist principles in the tradition shows that faith plays a vital role as the driving force that motivates the community to creatively conserve the Jong Para procession, instilling pride in younger generations and encouraging them to preserve it. The principle of gratitude is distinctly evident toward ancestors, teachers, community leaders, monks, and benefactors of the temple and village. The community values mutual dependence and collective merit-making dedicated to deceased relatives. The Buddhist principles observed in this practice include: (1) Dana, the cooperative efforts of the community; (2) Sila, observing precepts, listening to Dhamma, making merit, and practicing Buddhist discipline; (3) Bhavana, participants keeping their minds composed to cultivate mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom; (4) Gratitude (Katannukatavedi), merit dedication to ancestors and expressing respect for benefactors; (5) Sangha Samaggi, collaboration between monks and laypeople through rituals and shared spiritual practice.