THE STUDY OF HISTORY BELIEF AND THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RELIC - ENSHRINING PAGODA IN SOUTHERN THAILAND

Abstract

          The Objectives of this research article were to 1) to study the history of the pagoda in Southern Thailand; 2) to study the beliefs of the Southern communities towards the pagoda in Southern Thailand, and 3) to analyze the importance of pagoda in Southern Thailand to the community as a symbol of the faith power of the people in southern Thailand. This is qualitative research by studying the document and in-depth interviews with 18 key informants, presenting the descriptive research results. The study found that: 1) The history of the pagoda in Southern Thailand 1.1) Phra Boromathatchedi Chaiya. It is a Buddhist pagoda in the Srivijaya period, presumably built around 1200 B.E., in the prosperous Srivijaya Kingdom, containing the relics of the Lord Buddha. It is assumed that Aged about the 14^th century Buddhist era. 1.2) Phra Borommathatchedi Nakhon Si Thammarat. It has a long history with various legends and scriptures explaining that the constructor was Phra Sri Thammasokaraj. 1.3) Phra Mahathat Wat Khian Bang Kaew. It is the oldest pagoda of Phatthalung Province. It is assumed that Phraya Krung Thong of Sathing Paranasi was the creator. 2) The beliefs of the Southern communities towards the pagoda in the Southern Thailand. There are 5 issues, namely 2.1) historical beliefs 2.2) beliefs in traditions 2.3) beliefs in architecture and fine arts 2.4) mental beliefs and 2.5) personal and relevant beliefs. 3) The importance of pagoda in the Southern Thailand to the community as a symbol of the faith power of the people in the southern Thailand. The Southern pagodas such as Phra Boromathat Chaiya, Phra Borommathatchedi Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Phra Mahathat Wat Khian Bang Kaew. It is a symbol of faith power which demonstrates the power of faith in Southern pagodas through traditions and culture.