ANALYSIS OF BUDDHIST LITERATURE: THE CASE OF PHRA A-NON AND KOKILA

Abstract

This research is a qualitative study aimed to: 1) examine the content and components of the literary work. 2) analyze the Buddhist principles that appear in the Buddhist-inspired literary work, "Phra A-Non, the Buddha’s brother" specifically focusing on the relationship between Phra A-Non and Kokila. 3) analyze the value of this literary work to Thai society.
The research revealed that
1) the story of Phra A-non and Kokila is a Buddhist literary work written in prose form, categorized as a form of religious literature. Its primary purpose is to impart Buddhist teachings to readers. The author employs a love story as a central theme to guide readers toward the ultimate truth. The narrative revolves around a woman who harbors deep affection for Phra A-noe and enters the Buddhist monastic order as a nun in the hope of being closer to him. Ultimately, love ended in disappointment, and upon hearing the true Dharma, Kokila became an Arhat bhikshuni. In addition to constructing the plot around Buddhist principles, the author has subtly interwoven both basic and advanced teachings into the various elements of the literary work. The aim is to convey the story's meaning in a clear and simple manner, directly related to the characters' roles. The central theme of the story highlights human suffering as a result of moha, or delusion, in the impermanent nature of things. The narrative concludes with a surprising twist, revealing that Kokila has attained enlightenment and become an Arhat in Buddhism. This ending mirrors the universal truth of the Three Universal Laws, showing how the lives of ordinary people are subject to change, influenced by various conditions and circumstances. 2) The Dhamma principles found in literature can be broadly classified into two categories: worldly dharma, encompassing impermanence, the three afflictions, attachment, sin, correct perspective, suffering, refuge, sacrifice, sexuality, and social status; and transcendental dharma, exemplified by the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta. These doctrines can be applied practically to enhance one's daily life. 3) Regarding the values of literature to Thai society, there are 3 aspects: 3.1) Intellectual value: Teaching Dharma according to Buddhist principles. 3.2) Emotional value: The value of literature as an art form. 3.3) The literary value showcases two key aspects: the aesthetic appeal, evident in the author's masterful use of eloquence to describe characters, and the effective use of figurative language to evoke emotions, imagery, and a lasting impression on the reader.