THE STRATEGIC ROLE OF MONKS IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: A CASE STUDY OF THE COMMUNITY ENTERPRISES IN THE NAKHON CHAI BURIN PROVINCE CLUSTER, THAILAND

Abstract

Background and Objective: Buddhism was a crucial aspect of Thai society's fabric. It had been upheld and observed in conjunction with other societal standards and principles for an extensive period. Historically, monks played a pivotal role in Thai culture, serving as custodians of the faith and exemplars of proper conduct, which was significant for the lives of people in society and enhanced peace in the world by practicing good moral principles. Through the principles of precepts, merit-making, and altruistic acts, they steered individuals, communities, and society in line with the Vinaya Dhamma. Reverence and trust towards monks stemmed from sincere dedication. However, alternative institutions began assuming some of these functions. For instance, schools provided education for children and women, while hospitals provided medical treatment, which was previously available in temples. This transition resulted in a perceived diminishment in the significance of temples and monks in society, leading some individuals to distance themselves from them. Nonetheless, temples and monks persisted in holding crucial roles and duties within Thai communities. This study sought to explore strategies for enhancing the role of monks in fostering community enterprises in Nakhon Chai Burin Province.

Methodology: This qualitative research employed key informants, including religious administrators, community enterprise presidents, and community enterprise members. A total of 20 informants were selected using purposive sampling, with five participants from each province in the Nakhon Chai Burin Province Cluster. Data collection involved in-depth interviews that explored questions regarding the integration of Buddhist principles or doctrines into community enterprise development, as well as government and local support for these initiatives.
The interview guide was developed and assessed for content validity by three experts, achieving a Content Validity Index (CVI) of 1.00.

Main Results: These management strategies served as guidelines for efficient and effective management to develop and promote the coexistence of religions and communities.
They particularly enhanced the role of monks in developing the potential and performance of community enterprises to strengthen the sufficiency economy and promoted the coexistence of religions and communities for a happy life.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: The strategic role of monks in community development by applying Buddhism for social benefits has been successful because Buddhism has served as a unifying force for its followers. Buddhists found a sense of grounding by adhering to the Triple Gem and practicing Buddhist principles. These principles emphasized living a good life, believing in the law of karma, and cultivating gratitude for kindness and compassion. This approach ultimately led to a more peaceful and harmonious society. Integrating Buddhist principles or teachings into community development was a successful strategy, with the Fourfold Path as a guiding framework. These principles, like wheels, drove prosperity and strengthened communities, helping them achieve their goals.

Conclusions: The strategies for developing the role of monks in the development of community enterprises in the Nakhon Chai Burin Province Cluster focused on four aspects: 1) Leveraging moral authority and community trust through education and knowledge; 2) Addressing limited resources and development priorities while balancing spiritual needs; 3) Adapting to changing social dynamics; and 4) Resisting external pressures and managing limited outreach.
By implementing these strategies, monks leveraged their strengths, addressed weaknesses, capitalized on opportunities, and mitigated threats to ensure the continued positive impact of their rural development initiatives.