Journal of Buddhist Anthropology

INTEGRATING BUDDHIST PRINCIPLES TO MULTICULTURAL EDUCATION: A CASE STUDY IN RURAL COMMUNITIES OF MERBABU MOUNTAIN SLOPES OF INDONESIA

Sukodoyo — 2025-03-31

Background and Objectives: Indonesia is a multicultural country that needs multicultural education to foster tolerance and mutual respect in its diverse society. This study examined how Buddhist principles influenced how people in Thekelan Hamlet promoted multicultural education, emphasizing the role of mountainous communities in fostering social harmony. This research was conducted in the Sub-village of Thekelan, the Village of Batur, Getasan Sub-district, Semarang Regency, Central Java, Indonesia. This research aimed to delve into the practice of multicultural education among the people of Thekelan, where the majority were Buddhists. By exploring their perspectives on religious collaboration activities, this study examined the significant influence of the Buddha's teachings in establishing multicultural education.

Methodology: This study adopted qualitative research methodology with a case study approach. The data were collected through observation, interviews, documentation, and focus group discussions (FGD). The observation was conducted in Thekelan, where the activities, culture, and traditions of the rural communities of Merbabu Mountain were observed. Interviews were conducted by selecting key informants from different social and religious backgrounds. The focus group discussion involved key community stakeholders. Finally, the information gathered from observation, interviews, documentation, and focus group discussions was examined and analyzed to determine the influence of Buddhist principles on the people living in Thekelan in promoting multicultural education.

Main Results: The study showed that the Buddha's teachings on respecting other religions, as mentioned in the Upali Sutta and Asoka Inscription, respecting ancestral traditions, as found in the Mahaparinibbana Sutta, and the Buddhist pragmatic concept of truth, as shown in the Simsappa Sutta, influenced the people of Thekelan in promoting multicultural education.
This study found that: 1) Awareness and belief in ancestral heritage and universal goodness were manifested in cooperative activities such as Merti Dusun (Hamlet Cleaning), Sedekah Bumi/Saparan (Earth Offering), respect for other religions and their religious holidays, and traditional artistic activities; 2) Strengthening the role of religious and community leaders was critical since they served as role models for the community; 3) Mutual agreement to uphold traditions and culture fostered mutual respect and cooperation within the community; 4) Equality in the universal values of multicultural education included three aspects: Deliberation, religious activities, and communal activities;
and 5) Creative and innovative approaches to national celebrations such as the Indonesian Independence Day ceremony on August 17th, Kartini Day (Indonesian Woman Emancipation Day) on April 21st, and cultural carnivals served as important tools for promoting a harmonious society.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: This research included Applied Buddhism, which emphasized how a Buddhist community applied the development of wisdom and morality in accordance with the demands of the time. To realize multicultural education, supportive elements such as principles of tolerance, empathy, awareness development, wisdom development, and social competence development were needed. Therefore, the Buddha's teachings on the importance of practicing and developing khanti, mettā, karuṇā, sati sampajañña, and paññā became highly relevant. Multicultural education was successfully achieved through the practice of patience or tolerance, boundless loving-kindness, compassion, mindful living, and wisdom development. These principles had been well-practiced by the Buddhist community of Thekelan.

Conclusions: Multicultural education plays a significant role in promoting a peaceful and harmonious society. The traditions maintained by people living in Thekelan Village served as a good example of multicultural education and the importance of maintaining a peaceful and harmonious life in diversity.

THE ROLE OF BUDDHIST PRACTICES IN PROMOTING HAPPINESS AMONG YOUNG WORKERS POPULATION IN THAILAND

Suriya Klangrit — 2025-04-01

Background and Objectives: Thailand, where Buddhism was the predominant religion, deeply incorporated its spiritual practices and traditions into the country's social and cultural systems. Buddhist teachings played a significant role in shaping individual values, promoting emotional well-being, and supporting coping strategies throughout different phases of life. For young workers aged 30-40, this stage marked a crucial period of personal and professional development, often accompanied by challenges such as career progression, work-life balance, and self-identity formation. During this stage, religiosity and participation in Buddhist practices provided emotional support, fostered resilience, and enhanced life satisfaction. This study investigated the role of Buddhist practices in promoting happiness among young workers (Aged 30-40) in Thailand, with an emphasis on understanding how religiosity and religious activities contributed to their overall happiness.

Methodology: The study utilized secondary data from the 2018 Survey on Conditions of Society, Culture, and Mental Health, conducted by Thailand's National Statistical Office, a government agency. This nationwide dataset was based on proportional stratification by population size, with households surveyed through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. A subset of 3,526 individuals aged 30-40 years, representing young workers, was analyzed to examine the relationship between Buddhist practices and happiness.

Main Results: The findings highlighted two critical perspectives: 1) Religiosity significantly enhanced psychological well-being through practices such as praying, meditating, listening to sermons, observing the Five Precepts, and participating in cultural and religious events. These practices fostered mindfulness, emotional stability, and mental resilience, equipping young workers better to navigate the complexities of professional and personal life; and 2) Engaging in religious activities, such as applying Buddhist teachings to daily life, addressing workplace challenges with moral principles, and practicing according to religious precepts, promoted emotional resilience, a sense of purpose, and a strong sense of community belonging. These factors were vital for cultivating positivity and collaborative relationships in the workplace.

KNOWLEDGE AND LEARNING AT WAT PHRA PATHOM CHEDI: A CASE STUDY OF BUDDHIST TOURISM

Bulan Kulavijit — 2025-04-01

Background and Objectives: Wat Phra Pathom Chedi Ratchawora Mahawihan, located in Nakhon Pathom Province, was a renowned destination for both educational and religious tourism, attracting 87 percent of visitors. The research study revealed a deficiency in the systematization of information and the availability of knowledge regarding archaeological sites and antiques within Wat Phra Pathom Chedi. The objective of this research article was to gather information about the qualities and types of knowledge associated with Wat Phra Pathom Chedi, located in Nakhon Pathom Province, as a Buddhist learning center for tourism.

Methodology: This research employed content analysis of documents and relevant studies obtained from the online bibliographic database of Silpakorn University Central Library. Additionally, information from the Thai Theses Database (ThaiLIS), Thailand Central Electronic Journal Database (ThaiJO), and expert interviews was utilized to verify the accuracy of the gathered information.

Main Results: The initial research findings indicated that Wat Phra Pathom Chedi possessed knowledge in the field of archaeological sites and antiquities. This knowledge was divided into eight categories: Information on the historical background of the Buddha, Buddhist principles, architectural styles, works of art, Dhamma practice, activities, traditions, and the worship of sacred objects.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: This research explored the application of Buddhism in contemporary contexts, integrating modern scholarship with traditional Buddhist knowledge to develop wisdom and morality through Buddhism. Specifically, it examined the characteristics and typologies of Buddhist knowledge preserved within the ancient sites and artifacts of Phra Pathom Chedi Temple. By systematically organizing and disseminating this knowledge, the research aimed to transform the temple into a prominent educational tourism destination, thereby enhancing public accessibility to Buddhist teachings.

Conclusions: Wat Phra Pathom Chedi served as a prominent Buddhist learning center for tourism in Nakhon Pathom Province. The site contained a diverse range of knowledge, including archaeological sites and artifacts that had been created based on the principles and beliefs of Buddhism. The research findings indicated that the types of knowledge could be divided into tangible and intangible forms. The tangible knowledge included ancient sites within the temple, consisting of various buildings such as chedis, temples, chapels, bell towers, and a chapel (Ubosot). Additionally, the antiquities discovered at the site consisted of Buddha statues, mural paintings, and Dhamma inscriptions. The intangible knowledge included traditional events, legends, and activities on important Buddhist days. The Phra Pathom Chedi Temple encompassed multiple qualities of knowledge, including the history of the Buddha, Buddhist principles, architecture, art, Dhamma practice, events on significant Buddhist occasions, traditions, and the worship of sacred objects. Wat Phra Pathom Chedi functioned as a Buddhist learning center for both tourists and the local community. Its purpose was to inspire individuals to independently pursue knowledge, thereby promoting the growth of Buddhist and cultural tourism. This research had limitations in terms of scope, as it focused solely on the study area of Wat Phra Pathom Chedi in Nakhon Pathom Province. The purpose of this study was to gather data from a prototype system that could potentially be used to expand data collection to other temples and be developed into a virtual tour system, which could serve as a Buddhist learning center for tourism and contribute to a more comprehensive tourism experience.

AN INTEGRATION OF THE BUDDHA'S TEACHING WITH VOLUNTEER NETWORK'S COMMUNITY WELFARE OF WAT BANG CHANG NUEA, SAMPRAN DISTRICT, NAKHON PATHOM PROVINCE, THAILAND

Reongwit Nilkote — 2025-03-31

Background and Objectives: Buddhism has been the predominant religion in Thailand for over 2,000 years since the Suvarnabhumi period and remained so until the present day. It served as the religion of most of the population, acted as a cornerstone and fundamental foundation of Thai culture, functioned as a spiritual center fostering unity among the Thai people, and was deeply intertwined with the Thai nation. However, Thai society faced challenges related to urbanization, which negatively impacted the quality of life in communities. There was a pressing need to promote well-being to enhance the quality of life in these areas. Buddhist principles have long served as a foundation for developing individuals, communities, and society, fostering self-reliance and harmonious living. Wat Bang Chang Nuea, as the case study of this research, applied Buddhadhamma with the concept of volunteerism to promote community welfare. Therefore, the objectives of this research were to study the concept of volunteerism and community development according to Buddhist guidelines and to present guidelines for applying the principles of Buddhadhamma to promote community welfare in the context of Wat Bang Chang Nuea, Nakhon Pathom Province.

Methodology: The research employed a qualitative methodology for data collection. A review of relevant literature was conducted to serve as fundamental data for the study. The target group was determined through case study selection. The methodology also included participant observation and focus group discussions.

Main Results: The study revealed the following findings: 1) The study of volunteerism and community development according to Buddhist guidelines aimed to improve the quality of life for people at all levels. Thailand's Buddhist temples served as fundamental institutions for promoting education and improving people's quality of life, with the ultimate goal of achieving a good quality of life. The principles relevant to the context of volunteer work included Sanghahawatthu and Sappurisadhamma, 2) The guidelines for applying Buddhadhamma principles to community welfare promotion in the context of Wat Bang Chang Nuea, Nakhon Pathom Province, included: 2.1) Dana: Practicing sharing for the benefit of others; 2.2) Piyavaca: Practicing speaking with sweet and sincere words, avoiding rude or aggressive speech, and saying things that were useful and appropriate; 2.3) Atthacariya: Practicing helping one another; and 2.4) Samanattata: Practicing acting consistently, getting along, being a good companion, avoiding exploitation, facing and solving problems together for mutual benefit, making friends, and supporting one another in times of distress. These practices led to happiness and harmony within the group. Furthermore, Sappurisadhamma was identified as an intellectual principle that individuals should have sought and applied to develop themselves comprehensively. If individuals possessed knowledge and abilities aligned with these seven principles of Sappurisadhamma, they were considered people of good qualities and wisdom, dependable by society.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: This article highlighted the application of Buddhist principles by integrating Buddhism with the concept of volunteerism. The development of volunteer networks and the promotion of community welfare were closely linked to improving people's quality of life in various dimensions, including physical, mental, social, and spiritual aspects. This concept corresponded with Buddhism's social benefits, particularly Sappurisadhamma and Sanghahawatthu, which aimed to develop individuals' potential righteously while fostering good communities and a peaceful global society.

Conclusions: The principles of Sanghahawatthu and Sappurisadhamma served as foundational guidelines for promoting a good quality of life and building effective volunteer networks that functioned successfully within society.

INTEGRATING BUDDHIST WISDOM WITH HOLISTIC HEALTH PROMOTION: A CASE STUDY OF MONKS IN THE DIGITAL AGE IN MUANG UTTARADIT DISTRICT

Seubtrakul Tantalanukul — 2025-03-31

Background and Objectives: In the rapidly evolving landscape of the 21st century, the intersection of ancient wisdom and modern health practices has gained increasing attention. This convergence was particularly evident in Thailand, where specific Buddhist practices had long been intertwined with society. As digital technologies permeated contemporary life, even monasteries-traditionally viewed as bastions of contemplation-were not immune to these influences. This research aimed to examine how Buddhist monks in Muang Uttaradit district integrated traditional wisdom with modern health promotion strategies, analyze digital technologies' impact on their health practices, and identify potential synergies and challenges in combining Buddhist teachings with digital tools for holistic health promotion.

Methodology: The study employed a mixed-methods research design. A stratified random sample of 200 monks from Muang Uttaradit district participated in the quantitative phase, utilizing structured questionnaires, a Digital Health Literacy Assessment Tool, and a modified Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire. For the qualitative phase, in-depth interviews were conducted with 17 monks selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data, with integration through joint display analysis.

Main Results: The study revealed a significant integration of traditional Buddhist practices with modern health promotion approaches. Daily meditation (85.5%) and mindful eating (72.0%) coexisted with the adoption of physical exercise (45.5% Daily) and health apps (25.5% Daily). Most monks (77.5%) demonstrated moderate to high digital health literacy levels. However, a digital divide was observed, with older monks facing more challenges (r = -0.62, p < 0.001). Qualitative data highlighted the use of digital platforms for disseminating health-related Buddhist teachings and facilitating community engagement. The research identified synergies, including enhanced mindfulness through app-guided meditation and improved health monitoring, alongside challenges such as potential digital distraction and maintaining the authenticity of traditional practices.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: This research fell under Applied Buddhism, specifically "Buddhist innovations applied to solve modern social problems." The study applied the Four Bases of Success (Iddhipada 4) comprising aspiration (Chanda), persistence (Viriya), attention (Citta), and examination (Vimamsa) as a framework for achieving success in health promotion. The study recognized that health practices could evolve while maintaining Buddhist teachings' essence, guiding an adaptive approach that preserved core values while embracing beneficial technological innovations.

Conclusions: Monks in Muang Uttaradit district were actively navigating the intersection between Buddhist wisdom and digital-age health promotion. The digital-age Buddhist Health Integration Model (DBHIM), comprising four components-mindful Technology Engagement, Dharma-Informed Health Practices, Digital Sangha Support, and Holistic Well-being Cultivation-provided a framework for understanding this integration with applications beyond monastic communities. Recommendations included developing tailored digital health literacy programs, promoting intergenerational knowledge exchange, creating Buddhist-informed digital health tools, and implementing holistic well-being programs that integrate ancient wisdom with contemporary approaches.

BOOSTING CREATIVE LEADERSHIP IN DIGITAL COMMUNITY GROWTH WITH FIVE BALA DHAMMA

Nipawan Charoenlak — 2025-03-31

Background and Objectives: Buddhism was a social and cultural resource that influenced Thai society in many ways, from education and daily life to traditions and cultural practices that reflected the nation's identity. Buddhist teachings helped build cultural and spiritual resilience in responding to social changes such as demographic and economic shifts. The principle of the "Middle Path" enabled individuals to adapt and respond to changes in a constructive way, fostering peace in society. Buddhism also emphasized conflict management with patience, honesty, and fairness-qualities that were fundamental to good leadership. The development of leaders in this direction ensured that communities grew sustainably and strengthened in economic, social, and cultural aspects, thus establishing a solid foundation for the development of peaceful and sustainable communities and societies. The objective of this study was to examine the level of empowering creative leadership for community development in the digital era, to assess the level of applying the Five Bala Dhamma principles based on Buddhist teachings, to investigate the relationship between the empowering creative leadership and community development in the digital era through the application of the Five Bala Dhamma principles based on Buddhist teachings, and to develop recommendations for enhancing the empowering creative leadership for community development in the digital era by applying the Five Bala Dhamma principles based on Buddhist teachings.

Methodology: This research aimed to study the level of enhancing creative leadership potential for community development in the digital era, the level of applying the Buddhist principles of Five Bala Dhamma as a foundation, the relationship between enhancing creative leadership potential for community development in the digital era through the application of the Buddhist principles of Five Bala Dhamma, and to propose recommendations for enhancing creative leadership potential for community development in the digital era based on the application of the Buddhist principles of Five Bala Dhamma. This study employed a mixed-methods approach. The sample group consisted of 291 students and community leaders. The sample size was determined using Krejcie and Morgan's table. The research tool was a questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale. The statistics used for the quantitative data analysis were the mean, standard deviation, and Pearson correlation coefficient. For the qualitative research, 15 key informants were selected purposefully. The data collection tool was a semi-structured questionnaire.
The content analysis method was used for synthesizing the data, and the quality was checked using triangulation techniques.

Main Results: The results revealed that the level of enhancing creative leadership potential for community development in the digital era was high ( = 4.10, S.D. = 0.32). The level of applying the Buddhist principles of Five Bala Dhamma as a foundation was also high ( = 4.07, S.D. = 0.32). The relationship between enhancing creative leadership potential for community development in the digital era through the application of the Buddhist principles of Five Bala Dhamma was moderate and statistically significant at the .01 level. The recommendations for development were as follows: 1) Continuous enhancement of creative leadership potential; 2) Integration of Five Bala Dhamma principles in practice; 3) Application of technology for community development; and 4) Building partnerships and cooperation at all levels.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: This article explored Applied Buddhism and its role in cultivating wisdom and morality to enhance leadership development. Grounded in the principles of Five Bala Dhamma, it used relevance within the contemporary organizational context. Buddhist principles served as a fundamental foundation for empowering and strengthening leaders.

Conclusions: The study suggested that continuous enhancement of leadership potential, integration of Five Bala Dhamma principles into practice, the use of technology for community development, and fostering cooperation at all levels were key to achieving sustainable success in community development in the digital era.

DEVELOPMENT OF HYPERTENSION PREVENTION AND CONTROL MODEL AMONG MONKS IN NONG KHAI PROVINCE, THAILAND

Kris Khunluek — 2025-03-31

Background and Objectives: Nong Khai Province implemented a health promotion project among monks in 2016. The objective was to ensure monks maintain good health, enabling them to continue preserving and promoting Buddhism and to serve as health role models within their communities. The project included 11 activities. This research aimed to develop the hypertension prevention and control model and evaluate the hypertension prevention and control model among monks in Nong Khai Province using the CIPPIEST Model. This model was an extension of the CIPP evaluation model (Context, Input, Process, and Product) by expanding the Product Evaluation into Impact Evaluation, Effectiveness Evaluation, Sustainability Evaluation, and Transportability Evaluation of the evaluated projects.

Methodology: This research and development approach to hypertension prevention and control among monks in Nong Khai had two parts: Part 1: Development of a hypertension prevention and control model; and Part 2: Evaluation of a hypertension prevention and control model among monks in Nong Khai Province.

Main Results: This research found two parts: Part 1: This section involved the development of
a hypertension prevention and control model, which comprises six components: Belly reduction, blood sugar control, medication, blood pressure measurement, health literacy, and protection and rest. By addressing ten success factors, the model can be effectively implemented and sustained, contributing to the control of hypertension among monks; and Part 2: This part evaluated the hypertension prevention and control model using the CIPPIEST model. The summary of the sample group's opinion on the project components revealed that Input Factors, Impact, and Transferability were rated at a very good level, while Context, Process, Productivity, and Effectiveness were rated at a good level. These findings indicate a generally favorable perception of the model among the sample group across various evaluated components. The model serves as a comprehensive framework for promoting and maintaining the health and well-being of monks. This approach underscores a commitment to addressing the multifaceted health challenges faced by monks in the region. By aligning strategies with identified success factors, stakeholders can ensure the effective implementation and sustainability of health promotion initiatives aimed at controlling hypertension among monks.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: This investigation revealed the application of Buddhism in relation to Buddhist innovations for the achievement of "Healthy Monks," it can be applied to the implementation of activities for Bhavana 4 (Kayabhavana) about prevention and control of high blood pressure among monks, consisting of 6 components, 20 activities, and 10 success factors for this model were identified. These factors include clarity of policy, sector collaboration, mutual understanding, integration of operations, administrator emphasizing, network and coordination, monitoring and evaluation, continuity in operation, faith, and confidence in merit in compliance with the National Sangha Health Charter 2017.

Conclusions: This research highlighted the significance of comprehensive and culturally sensitive health promotion strategies for monks grounded in collaboration, community participation, and adherence to ethical principles. By aligning with these factors, health promotion efforts effectively addressed the unique health needs of monks in Nong Khai Province while respecting their beliefs and lifestyles. Overall, the evaluation indicated that the prevention and control of hypertension model among monks was well-received and made significant strides in improving monk health and well-being. Continued monitoring, support, and community engagement were essential
for sustaining and enhancing the project's impact over time. In summary, the evaluation underscored the commendable success of the prevention and control of hypertension model. Continued vigilance, support, and community involvement were pivotal in upholding and augmenting the project's impact over time.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF BUDDHIST LEADERSHIP BASED ON THE PRINCIPLES OF SARANIYADHAMMA FOR EDUCATIONAL LEADERS TO PROMOTE HAPPINESS AND WELL-BEING IN THE ERA OF CHANGE

Reongwit Nilkote — 2025-03-31

Background and Objectives: The principles of Saraniyadhamma fostered good relationships and cooperation within organizations, leading to an environment that promoted happiness and well-being in educational institutions, which could be sustained in the long term. Management based on Saraniyadhamma encouraged cooperation and mutual understanding among leaders, organizational members, and students while also effectively reducing conflicts within the organization. This study aimed to examine Buddhist leadership in management based on the principles of Saraniyadhamma in the era of change, focusing on happiness and well-being. Additionally, it aimed to develop Buddhist leadership based on the principles of Saraniyadhamma for educational leaders to promote happiness and well-being in the era of change.

Methodology: Methodology: This was mixed-methods research. The quantitative study began by defining the research scope, which included teachers and educational personnel from schools that implemented the Buddhist Path School Project, totaling 1,320 individuals in Bangkok.
A sample of 302 individuals was selected using simple random sampling. The research instrument used was a questionnaire, which was reviewed by experts in various fields and tested for reliability (Cronbach's Alpha) with a value of 0.86, which was considered to be good. Data collection from the questionnaire was completed 100%, and descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, and hypothesis testing using Pearson's correlation coefficient were applied. The researcher conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions for the qualitative study. Data analysis in this section used content analysis and triangulation to ensure the reliability and comprehensiveness of the research findings.

Main Results: It was found that the study of leadership in accordance with the Buddhist Path based on the principles of Saraniyadhamma during times of change, as a whole, was at the highest level ( = 4.65, S.D. = 0.22). When considering each aspect individually, all aspects were at the highest level, listed from highest to lowest as follows: 1) Mettàvacãkamma, speaking politely
( = 4.67, S.D. = 0.23); 2) Mettàmanokamma, having goodwill and positive intentions ( = 4.65, S.D. = 0.26); 3) Diññhisàmannatà, mutual agreement ( = 4.61, S.D. = 0.26); 4) Sãlasàmannatà, integrity and correctness ( = 4.64, S.D. = 0.31); 5) Mettàkàyakamma, having polite actions ( = 4.63, S.D. = 0.26); and 6) Sàdhàranabhogità, sharing and distributing resources ( = 4.60, S.D. = 0.31).
It was found that happiness and well-being, as a whole, were at the highest level ( = 4.65,
S.D. = 0.22). When considering each aspect individually, all aspects were at the highest level, listed from highest to lowest as follows: 1) Kāyika-sukha, physical health ( = 4.71, S.D. = 0.22); 2) Citta-sukha, mental health ( = 4.65, S.D. = 0.22); 3) Sosiala-sukha, social well-being ( = 4.65, S.D. = 0.25); and 4) Citta-vīrya-sukha, spiritual well-being ( = 4.62, S.D. = 0.28). It was found that there was a positive relationship between Buddhist leadership based on Saraniyadhamma during times of change and happiness and well-being. The relationship was strong (rxy = 0.714) and statistically significant at the .01 level. It was found that developing Buddhist leaders based on the principles of Saraniyadhamma promoted workplace happiness and well-being.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: This article applied Buddhism and the development of wisdom and morality with Buddhism. It involved using leadership principles that emphasized good relationships and living a life of virtue. These principles focused on being aware of change and living mindfully, which contributed to developing a happy life and effective collaboration within organizations.

Conclusions: The principles of Saraniyadhamma served as a fundamental basis for developing Buddhist leadership, which helped build good relationships, promoted virtue, and enhanced leaders' abilities to guide organizations toward success.

GUIDELINES FOR APPLYING BUDDHIST PRINCIPLES TO THE PROMOTION OF THE JUSTICE SYSTEM WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF THE LAW IN THE THA RUEA SUBDISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION, MUEANG NAKHON SI THAMMARAT DISTRICT, NAKHON SI THAMMARAT PROVINCE

Phrakru Nitithambundit Suriya Kongkawai — 2025-03-31

Background and Objective: The community justice system is an important mechanism for maintaining peace and order and fairness in society. Buddhist principles have been used as a guideline for promoting the justice process since the time of the Buddha, it has also had a long-standing influence Thailand's legal system and justice processes. Examples of this influence include mediation and compromises to resolve disputes peacefully, using the principles of the Seven Atikornasamatha and the Four Brahmaviharas, these principles can be applied to effectively promote the community justice system. This research, aims to explore how the principles of the Seven Atikornasamatha can be applied to promote the community justice system in the area of Tha Ruea Sub-district Administrative Organization, Mueang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, within the legal context.
Methodology: This research adopted a qualitative research design. Data were collected from relevant documents and in-depth interviews using a semi-structured interview format. The interviews targeted specific groups of key informants, including: 1) Five local residents; 2) Five local government officials; 3) Three educational personnel; 4) Three religious representatives; and 5) Five police officers, totaling 21 people. The data were analyzed using analytic induction.
Main Results: The study showed that the application of Buddhist principles to promote the justice system in the Tha Ruea community, Mueang Nakhon Si Thammarat district, Nakhon Si Thammarat province, included: 1) Focusing on crime prevention through environmental improvements and cooperation between the police and local residents. The principles of Trisikkha and the Four Brahmaviharas helped to promote morality and peace; 2) Receiving complaints and reporting corruption by using Trisikkha and the Four Brahmaviharas to listen attentively and impartially; 3) Mediating disputes using the principles of Adhikarana Samatha and the Four Brahmaviharas to create a safe and neutral atmosphere for negotiation; 4) Providing restorative justice for victims of crime, emphasizing compassion and forgiveness for rehabilitation; and 5) Accepting ex-convicts back into the community using Trisikkha, the Four Noble Truths, and the Four Brahmaviharas to help offenders become good citizens again.
Involvement to Buddhadhamma: The community justice system acts as a mechanism to maintain peace and promoting harmonious living within the community. The application of Buddhist principles as Buddhist innovation, including the principles of Traisikkha (Precepts, Meditation, Wisdom), the Four Noble Truths (Suffering, Cause of Suffering, Cessation of Suffering, Path to Cessation of Suffering), the Four Brahmaviharas (Loving-kindness, Compassion, Sympathetic Joy, Equanimity) and the principles of Adhikarana-samatha (Sammukawinai, Tinnavattharaka principles), helps enhance the effectiveness of community justice system while upholding the law and ensuring fairness.
Conclusions: The application of Buddhist principles as a guideline for promoting a justice system in the Tha Ruea Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Mueang district, Nakhon Si Thammarat province, by studying its role in promoting justice under the legal context of the community, such as crime prevention, receiving complaints, reporting clues, mediating disputes, compensating crime victims, and accepting ex-convicts back into the community, can significantly improve efficiency and fairness, which will lead to the development of a peaceful and harmonious community.

MULTICULTURAL LEADERSHIP MODEL ACCORDING TO SARANIYADHAMMA PRINCIPLES OF ADMINISTRATORS OF THE ARTS AND CULTURE NETWORK IN RAJABHAT UNIVERSITIES

Natthapat Saisena — 2025-03-31

Background and Objectives: In managing diverse and complex organizations, as evident in the current situation, leaders integrated both science and art to adapt to evolving challenges. The application of Buddhist principles served as a key approach to leveraging social capital in management, aligning with the era of change. This research aimed to: 1) Study the past state of multicultural leadership of administrators in the cultural arts network at Rajabhat Universities; 2) Develop a model of multicultural leadership based on the Saraniyadhamma principles for administrators in the cultural arts network at Rajabhat Universities; 3) Test the model of multicultural leadership based on the Saraniyadhamma principles for administrators in the cultural arts network at Rajabhat Universities; and 4) Evaluate the model of multicultural leadership based on the Saraniyadhamma principles for administrators in the cultural arts network at Rajabhat Universities.
Methodology: This research was conducted as a research and development study incorporating quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative study aimed to examine essential needs and was analyzed using basic statistical methods, including ranking the needs index. The qualitative study involved analyzing data from documents and fieldwork. The research tools included questionnaires, structured interviews, and focus group discussions. Data were collected through questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Statistical methods used for data analysis included percentages, mean, and standard deviation. Additionally, content analysis was performed, and the findings were presented in a descriptive format.
Main Results: The findings indicated that the overall level of multicultural leadership among administrators in the cultural arts network at Rajabhat University was moderate. The development of the model included key elements such as knowledge, understanding, awareness, organizational culture, and participation. The results from implementing the multicultural leadership model showed a content validity index for its components, the methods of applying the model in educational institutions, and the evaluation outcomes based on the Saraniyadhamma principles for administrators within the cultural arts network at Rajabhat University. The assessment of content validity, measured by the Content Validity Index (CVI), evaluated the model's components, implementation guidelines, and the effectiveness of the model's measurement and evaluation. Remarkably, the content validity index for the evaluation was 1.00, and the overall content validity index for the entire model was also 1.00.
Involvement to Buddhadhamma: This research was based on the concept of applied Buddhism. It used the principles of Saraniyadhamma as Buddhist innovation for modern organizational management, which was highly significant in fostering fair leadership and promoting coexistence in a diverse society. This was particularly relevant in the context of managing the cultural arts network at Rajabhat University. The Saraniyadhamma principles encouraged friendly actions in all aspects, including actions, speech, and thoughts, as well as sharing positive things and adhering to ethical practices.
Conclusions: This research aimed to develop a multicultural leadership model based on the principles of Saraniyadhamma for leaders in the cultural arts network at Rajabhat Universities, focusing on applying Buddhist teachings in managing diverse organizations. The findings revealed that leaders strongly desired to develop high-level multicultural leadership skills. The developed model was suitable and could be practically implemented. The principles of Saraniyadhamma promoted collaboration within organizations by emphasizing compassion, polite communication, and positive thinking, ultimately fostering good relationships.

DEVELOPMENT OF YOUTH MEDIATOR BY BUDDHIST PEACE METHODS A CASE STUDY OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS AT MAHACHULALONGKORNRAJAVIDYALAYA UNIVERSITY, NAKHON SI THAMMARAT CAMPUS

Phra Nattapong Kraithep — 2025-03-31

Background and Objective: Currently, Thai society faces many problems, such as economic problems, difficulties in community living, and issues related to violence among teenagers. Violence occurred in all dimensions of children and youth, whether they witnessed violence within the family, became victims of violence, or acted as the perpetrators of violence against people close to them. This extended from home to the community and even spreading to schools. In this regard, statistics from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security on crimes committed by Thai children and teenagers who had been prosecuted nationwide revealed that the problem of violence among youth, especially among students, resulted in more than 10,000 cases per year. The aforementioned situation, demonstrated the rising levels of violence among youth. Therefore, the researcher became interested in and recognized the importance of studying the development of youth mediators using Buddhist peaceful methods. The case study focused on undergraduate students from Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Nakhon Si Thammarat Campus. The goal was to establish a core group of youth mediators, trained in Buddhist peaceful methods, who would act as peace engineers, promoting peace among students. This research aimed to present the development of youth mediators using Buddhist peaceful methods by the undergraduate students of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Nakhon Si Thammarat Campus.
Methodology: This was qualitative research with the following three principles: 1) Respect for human dignity; 2) Respect for rights, freedoms, and the rules of a just society; and 3) Responsibility for oneself, others, and society. Data were analyzed from documents and field data. The research instrument was an unstructured interview, with in-depth interview data collected from key informants which divided into four groups: 1) Educational institution administrators (3 People); 2) Faculty members (6 People); 3) Academics/staff (4 People); and 4) Student representatives (12 People), totaling 25 participants.
Main Results: The research revealed that the development of youth dispute mediation using Buddhist peaceful methods by undergraduate students of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Nakhon Si Thammarat Campus, integrated Buddhist peaceful methods with modern science through the principles of the Noble Eightfold Path, which can be analyzed in the form of a youth peaceful model that leads to the mediation process and the resolution of problems or potential conflicts in accordance with the process.
Involvement to Buddhadhamma: The development of youth mediation aligns with the principles of Buddhism, specifically the Noble Eightfold Path, which includes: Sammàdiññhi: Right View, Sammàsaïkappa: Right Thought, Sammàvàcà: Right Speech, Sammàkammanta: Right Action, Sammà-àjãva: Right Livelihood, Sammàvàyàma: Right Effort, Sammàsati: Right Mindfulness, and Sammàsamàdhi: Right Concentration.
Conclusions: The creation of youth mediators as models of youth mediation in society or "Peace Engineers" aimed to reduce problems and prevent conflicts in universities, communities and society based on the concept of "developing life at all 3 levels" to establish a balance of body, mind and thought with the goal of promoting a peaceful university life society.

INTEGRATING THE FOUR GHARAVASA DHAMMA TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY LEARNING IN THE CONTEXT OF ETHNIC GROUPS IN RATCHABURI PROVINCE

Narisara Krudnak — 2025-04-01

Background and Objectives: Applying the FOUR GHARAVASA DHAMMA to daily life in the community of Ratchaburi Province can strengthen morality and society sustainably. The FOUR GHARAVASA DHAMMA consisted of: Sacca (Truthfulness), Tama (Self-Command), Khanti (Patience), and Càga (Generosity). Each of these FOUR GHARAVASA DHAMMA played a vital role in fostering peace in both individual lives and the community. This research aimed to study the integration of the FOUR GHARAVASA DHAMMA, to examine the promotion of sustainable community learning within the ethnic group context of Ratchaburi Province, and to propose the promotion of sustainable community learning based on Buddhist principles in the context of ethnic groups.

Methodology: The research employed a mixed methods approach. In the quantitative study, the research instrument used was a five-point Likert scale questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.86. The population consisted of 360 individuals, with a sample group of 186 participants, determined by comparing the sample size using the Krejcie and Morgan table. The statistical methods used in the research included mean, standard deviation, and Pearson's correlation coefficient. In the qualitative study, focus group discussions were conducted, and the instrument used was a semi-structured interview. The key informants included community leaders and local scholars, totaling 18 individuals, selected purposively based on specific criteria. Data was analyzed through content analysis, and the findings were validated using the triangulation technique involving data, the researcher, and the theory. The results were presented descriptively in line with the research objectives.

Main Results: The research Founded that: 1) The integration of the Four Gharavasa Dhamma to promote sustainable community learning in the context of ethnic groups in Ratchaburi Province was found to be at a high level ( = 4.56, S.D. = 0.21); and 2) The promotion of sustainable community learning based on Buddhist principles in the context of ethnic groups consisted of: 2.1) Promoting morality and ethics based on the community's social and cultural foundation;
2.2) Learning from real-life experiences; 2.3) Self-reliance according to the philosophy of sufficiency economy; 2.4) Promoting volunteerism; and 2.5) Preserving the community's culture.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: The application of Buddhist principles in local community development helped foster virtues such as honesty, responsibility, and mutual assistance.
It focused on enabling the community to live sustainably based on their own cultural identity. Promoting learning according to Buddhist teachings contributed to the development of the community in areas such as education, economy, and society, particularly within the ethnic groups of Ratchaburi Province who preserved their cultural heritage.

Conclusions: This research aimed to enhance the potential of the Ratchaburi community by integrating the Four Gharavasa Dhamma: Sacca (Truthfulness), Tama (Self-Command), Khanti (Patience), and Càga (Generosity), to promote sustainable learning within the community in the context of ethnic groups. The focus was on using these principles in community management to strengthen morality and ethics, utilizing technology in teaching and learning, promoting lifelong learning, encouraging participation in decision-making, and adapting to changes. This approach led to the sustainability and overall strength of the community and contributed to peaceful coexistence.