THE ROLE OF MODHUM AS BAN DONG DANG COMMUNITY IDENTITY, DONG DANG SUB-DISTRICT, JATURAPHAKPHIMAN DISTRICT, ROI ET PROVINCE

Abstract

         The objective of this article is to study the role of Modhum as the community identity by using qualitative research design. The key informant consisted of 25 persons. The area studied was Ban Dong Dang, Dong Dang sub-district, Jaturaphakphiman district, Roi Et province. The sample was selected by purposive and snowball sampling methods. An in-depth interview through structured questionnaires was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using content analysis and triangulation was used to test the validity of the data obtained.

             The research result revealed that the cultural identity of Ban Dong Dang Community, Dong Dang sub-district, Jaturaphakphiman district, Roi Et province was influenced by Modhum culture based on living a community lifestyle from the past to the present. Modhum culture is the medium for maintaining and passing on community culture and wisdom. Modhum culture was combined with Buddhism, creating belief and faith among people in the community through ritual practitioners known as “Modhum”. Modhum culture is the center of the mind, the anchor of people who suffer physically and mentally, and the culture of rituals. According to the study on the identity in terms of lifestyle and the wisdom of Modhum culture, current Modhum culture could be analyzed in 10 roles as follows: 1. The role of leadership in behaving and conducting oneself. 2. The role in unity. 3. The role in creating and uplifting community culture. 4. The role in giving knowledge, wisdom, and information. 5. The role of being a local wisdom and cultural learning center. 6. The role in teaching. 7. The role of being the spiritual anchor. 8. The role in conserving and reflecting local identity. 9. The role in carrying on community traditions, and 10. The role in linking the belief in herbal medicine and the belief in modern medicine.