PHI TA KHON: THE BUDDHISM FAITH IN A STYLE OF LOCAL CULTURE

Abstract

               This article is an academic article to focus on presenting an important content about the folk culture called "Phi Ta Khon" tradition and the relationship which indicates on the faith in Buddhism. By the reason that Isan is the center of ancient traditional culture and Isan people are strict in traditions, stable in Buddhism, faith in local culture and respected in sacred and believe that all these sacred things will bring peace, abundance of cereal crops and prosperity to them. Therefore they have a merit traditions in every month which called " Heet twelve traditions" . It means twelve merit tradition festivals which is held one per month. The word "Heet" or "Reet" means "tradition" is due to faith in Buddhism which Isan people are considered that this is valuable to life and their society. So, who is violate or refrain to do that are considered as a bad person and unacceptable. As for the Phi Ta Khon tradition is a local culture of Loei people that merged to Heet twelve traditions of Isan people, it is the matter of faith in Buddhism and for members of society will have an opportunity to make merit together in every months of the year and have joyful at the same time. The result is to have chance on meeting and knowing to each other. Everyone will have time to go to temple, to make merit, practice in Dhamma and they will have more faith in Buddhism which is greater prosperity for life, and it also shows that the folk cultures are extremely valuable to thai society as well.