PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SINGHSUTHAWAT TEMPLE (WAT LUANG PHO NOI) UNDER A BUDDHIST ETHICAL FRAMEWORK, BAN PANG SUBDISTRICT, BANG SAI DISTRICT, PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aims to examine the level and forms of public participation in the management of Wat Sing Suthawat (Wat Luang Pho Wat Noi), located in Ban Paeng Subdistrict, Bang Sai District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, as well as to propose guidelines for enhancing public participation under a Buddhist ethical framework. The analytical framework is based on the principles of the Four Bases of Social Solidarity (Saṅgahavatthu 4), the Four Divine Abodes (Brahmavihāra 4), and the Seven Conditions of Non-decline (Aparihāniyadhamma 7). This study employed a survey research design. The sample consisted of 249 local residents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).

      The findings revealed that the overall level of public participation in temple management was at a low level. Public participation was highest in terms of benefit sharing, while participation in decision-making and monitoring and evaluation was at the lowest level. In addition, differences in educational attainment and average monthly income had a statistically significant effect on the level of public participation. The results indicate that temple management lacks structural mechanisms that effectively facilitate public participation. When considered within the Buddhist ethical framework, the promotion of public participation should emphasize the principles of loving-kindness (mettā), compassion (karuṇā), mutual support, and the provision of opportunities for community members to engage in decision-making and monitoring processes. Such an approach would help foster trust, social harmony, and enable the temple to function sustainably as both a spiritual and social center of the community.