Buddhist Monasteries and Muslim Mosques Beyond Saensaeb Canal : Emergence and Existence

Abstract

This research article aims to explore and study the history of the emergence of Buddhist monasteries and Muslim mosques established along Saensaeb Canal in Bangkok. As well, the contributing factors in the continuation of the co-existence of these religious sacred places for worship and ceremony during the Rattanakosin period has been explored using historical research methodology and a physical survey. The research finds that the history of the emergence of monasteries and mosques began in the Thonburi period with the establishment of Saensaeb Temple (or Saen Suk Temple) in the area of the Saensaeb rice f ield, and then the Bankrua Mosque was erected (or Jamiulkhoyriyah Musjid) during the reign of King Rama I of the Rattanakosin period. From the reign of King Rama III onwards, after digging the Saensaeb Canal as a channel for transportation, many monasteries and mosques have been constructed until the present reign. There are a total of 36 religious places along the canal, 11 are community Buddhist monasteries and 25 are Muslim mosques.

A number of factors have contributed to the emergence and continuation of peaceful relations between those monasteries and mosques, such as historical and socio-cultural factors that have existed since the construction of Saensaeb Canal; social harmony between Thai and Muslim people in the community; religious commitment of residents; and the relationship of artistic interest and spiritual direction between monasteries and mosques in the Rattanakosin period. An environment that fosters social relationships of both religious and cultural groups is ref lected in the model of peaceful and harmonious interaction between people of different religious and spiritual beliefs in this Bangkok community.