Buddhist Teachings in Pyha (Riddle Philosophy): Dhamma Riddles in Isan Culture and Society

Abstract

This research aimes to study the Buddhist teachings embedded in the
Pyha of Northeastern Thai (Isaan) society and culture. It has been documented
that Buddhism was first introduced into the Isaan region after the third
revision of the Buddhist teachings, under the leadership of King Asoka the
Great from India. The king sent 9 teams of Buddhist missionaries to declare
the religion in different places, including Thailand. Older Thai people who
had practiced the teachings of The Buddha became grateful for the teachings
and as a result, found different ways to spread them to others. Pyha, or
Dhamma riddle, is one of the techniques used in the Isaan region as a means
for spreading the great teachings. For this research, the Pyha were divided
into 4 categories based on the discipline of purified philosophy. In some
cases, certain extracts of Pyha could not be classified into any particular
philosophical isle. The contents embedded in Pyha demonstrate the wisdom
of the ancient Isaan people and their faith in Buddhism. The teachings of
Buddhism are presented in certain Pyha in order to help correct social
behaviors with regard to the precepts of Buddhism.