GUIDELINES FOR PROMOTING THE ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT OF MEDITATION CENTERS IN THE THAI SANGHA

Abstract

This academic article aims to propose guidelines for promoting the management of meditation centers under the Thai Sangha by examining their roles, significance, current management conditions, and development approaches as Buddhist institutions that play an important role in promoting Buddhist education and meditation practice, as well as in developing the morality, ethics, and mental well-being of the people. The findings reveal that the management of meditation centers should be systematically developed in accordance with the context of contemporary society. Six key components were identified: environment, personnel, management, technology, networks, and learning centers. These components are interrelated and mutually supportive. Specifically, meditation centers should provide clean, peaceful, pleasant, and safe environments; develop the knowledge and skills of meditation instructors and personnel; systematically manage personnel, budgets, and resources; apply technology to management, public relations, and Buddhist dissemination; establish collaborative networks with the Sangha, communities, educational institutions, government agencies, and civil society; and develop meditation centers as learning centers for enhancing people's quality of life. The resulting guidelines can be applied to improve meditation center management through clearly defined operational systems, environments and activities conducive to meditation practice, and personnel capable of providing appropriate guidance and effectively communicating Buddhist teachings. They can also facilitate broader and more equitable public access to information, activities, and meditation practices. Meanwhile, network development can increase participation and resources for operations. Consequently, meditation practitioners can benefit from enhanced knowledge of Buddhism, mental development, morality, ethics, and the application of Buddhist principles in daily life. Meditation centers will also gain greater capacity to operate effectively, disseminate Buddhism, and provide services to the public. At the societal level, these outcomes will contribute to the development of a moral society, improvement of people's quality of life, and the preservation and sustainable continuation of Buddhism.