BUDDHISM AND NATIONAL INTEGRATION IN THAILAND

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Buddhism strongly shapes Thai culture, rule, and national identity, mixing religious ideas with public management. This study looks at how Buddhist lessons fit into Thai governance, checks the Sangha's role in building national unity, and finds issues in changing these ideas for today's administrative structures. This research aimed to examine the incorporation of Buddhist principles in Thai public administration and evaluate their contributions to fostering national unity amidst the difficulties of modernizing these principles in today's governance. By studying where religion meets management, the study shines a light on how Buddhist lessons change Thailand's rule and gives views on keeping cultural heritage while handling the needs of a changing administrative setup.

Methodology: A simple method was used, including deep talks and group chats to get full ideas. Three types of main informants were picked: public workers who make rules; Buddhist monks and thinkers; and teachers and experts in public management. Also, three groups were held with community heads, everyday people involved in Buddhist work, and people interested in public management and Buddhism. Information obtained from these talks and chats was written down and examined with topic analysis to find common ideas and important points to give a clear view of the link between Buddhism and public rules.

Main Results: The study shows that in Thai public work, key Buddhist ideas like the Four Noble Truths, Noble Eightfold Path, and Six Perfections play a big part. They guide the right leadership and decision making where public workers focus on kindness and love during government tasks. The Sangha is very important for community growth because it leads efforts such as building schools and healthcare centers while promoting values of compassion, giving, and harmony within the neighborhood. Monks help to fix local fights by using Buddhist thoughts of no violence and care, thus maintaining peace and social unity. Modernizing these ideas brings challenges like finding a balance between old habits and current duties, making sure their meaning stays strong in changing society and stopping their use for political aims.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: Applied Buddhism has a tricky job in terms of social benefits in Thailand's public care system. Its ideas are mixed into the country's school system, which helps build a feeling of national belonging and togetherness among young people by teaching moral ideas, strict rules, and respect. The Four Noble Truths the Noble Eightfold Path and Six Perfections is significant influences. With the active help of the Sangha in local community projects and solving fights, they show their important role in keeping peace and unity all over the land. Their respected place and trust in Thai societies improves their helpful effect on different kinds of individuals.

Conclusions: Incorporating Buddhist principles like the Four Noble Truths and Noble Eightfold Path in Thailand's public administration helps promote effective governance and social cohesion. Sangha's involvement in enhance national solidarity further solidifies this framework by linking ethical behavior with efficient management. This strategy encourages collaboration between Buddhist organizations and governmental agencies strengthen moral decision-making. Although there are obstacles due to contemporary modifications, advantages such as improved societal tranquility surpass them. This outcome underscores the efficacy of integrating Dharmic values into administrative practices. Buddhist principles are kept relevant through continuous research and flexibility helping Thailand progress and maintain cohesion in the face of international shifts.