Journal of Contemporary Buddhist Society = JCBS

THE VALUE ADDED CREATION FOR COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM OF BAANWANGSAI COMMUNITY, THUNGSONG DISTRICT, NAKHON SI THAMMARAT PROVINCE

2025-07-24T15:30:41+07:00

This article is part of a research project on enhancing the value of tourism in Banwangsai Community, Thungsong District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The objectives were: 1) to study the travel behavior and evaluate the marketing factors influencing Thai tourists, and 2) to develop marketing strategies through the value creation process in tourism. The sample group included 98 tourists and 13 key informants from government, private, academic, and local sectors. Research instruments comprised questionnaires and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and content analysis.

The study revealed that most tourists traveled for educational purposes, influenced by online media and their affiliated organizations. They visited on weekends using organizational transport, participated in environmental activities, spent over three hours in the community, and spent no more than 500 baht. Tourists gave the highest importance to personnel and the least to distribution channels. In terms of perceived value, local wisdom ranked highest, while archaeological and historical values ranked lowest. The proposed marketing strategies included: proactive strategies by identifying target groups and tailoring space and activities; corrective strategies by improving advertising via social media and participating in tourism exhibitions; preventive strategies by enhancing facilities and services for modern travelers; and responsive strategies by encouraging creative community participation to preserve natural and cultural heritage and ensure sustainable tourism.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF BUDDHIST-ORIENTED GROUP PROCESS ACTIVITIES TO ENHANCE 21ST CENTURY LIFE SKILLS FOR YOUTH AT WAT LAT PLA KHAO SCHOOL, SI PRACHAN DISTRICT, SUPHANBURI PROVINCE

2025-08-20T14:03:06+07:00

This research has three objectives: 1) to study the Buddhist principles related to the development of 21st century life skills for youths at Wat Lat Pla Khao School, Si Prachan District, Suphan Buri Province; 2) to design a group process based on the Buddhist way of life that promotes 21st century life skills; and 3) to organize a group process activity based on the Buddhist way of life for youths in the school to develop comprehensive life skills. The research method used was a mixed methods research, consisting of documentary research to analyze the relevant principles, qualitative research by collecting data from in-depth interviews with 10 informants, and focus groups with 9 participants, consisting of youths, teachers, and monks in the area, as well as action research by organizing an experimental activity with a group of 25 youths to measure the results before and after participating in the activity.

The results of the study found that Buddhist principles can be used as an important tool to develop youths’ life skills comprehensively in the dimensions of emotions, minds, society, and behavior, especially the use of important principles: Adhipanya, Adhijitti, Sanghavatthu 4, Bodhipakkhiyadhamma 37, Yoniso Manasikara, and the 4 Bases of Power, which can create an ethical foundation. Developing analytical thinking and life skills systematically In designing and organizing group process activities according to the Buddhist way, it was found that all 4 types of activities, namely role-playing, self-reflection stage, digital world analysis, and Dharma games, can stimulate youths to dare to express themselves, be responsible, know how to set goals, control themselves, understand themselves, and be able to apply Dharma principles to real life. This reflects the potential of integrating Dharma principles into participatory learning processes that respond to the goals of education in the 21st century.

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT APPROACHES FOR GASTRONOMY TOURISM IN PHUKET TO SUSTAIN ITS CREATIVE CITY OF GASTRONOMY STATUS

2025-08-27T21:57:32+07:00

This research has two objectives: 1) to analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of gastronomy tourism management in Phuket Province by using the SWOT analysis framework, and 2) to propose strategic management approaches to sustain Phuket’s status as a Creative City of Gastronomy through synthesis with the TOWS Matrix. The study employed a mixed-methods approach. In the qualitative part, data were collected from in-depth interviews with 13 key informants covering the public sector, private sector, academia, and the community. In the quantitative part, data were collected from 400 Thai and international tourists with gastronomy tourism experience in Phuket. All data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive statistics to construct the SWOT analysis and extend it to the TOWS Matrix.

The results indicated that Phuket’s strengths include local culinary heritage reflecting multicultural identity, fresh ingredients, internationally recognized restaurants, and UNESCO designation as a form of Soft Power. Weaknesses include the lack of integrated mechanisms, insufficient public relations, inadequate transportation systems, and the concentration of food-related activities in the Old Town area. Opportunities arise from the growth of experiential and gastronomy tourism, health and sustainability trends, supportive policies, and the expansion of high-quality tourist markets. The main threats are the degradation of natural resources, competition from global gastronomy cities, impacts of economic crises and pandemics, and social changes that may undermine the authenticity of local food.

By applying the TOWS Matrix, the researcher synthesized four groups of strategies: proactive (SO), corrective (WO), preventive (ST), and defensive (WT), leading to the development of the PHUKET EATERY Paradigm, a holistic strategic framework that integrates conservation, development, and gastronomy tourism management. This paradigm aims to enhance competitiveness, preserve local identity, and sustain Phuket’s status as a Creative City of Gastronomy in the long term.

BUDDHA’S TEACHINGS AND WISDOM FOR CULTIVATING FAMILY HARMONY

2025-08-27T10:34:32+07:00

This research paper examines how the Buddha’s teachings can be applied to promote harmony within today’s family systems, especially in the context of increasing emotional stress, broken relationships and conflict in a fast-paced, technology-driven world. The main goals of the study are to explore the core Buddhist teachings on family ethics, assess their practical relevance for everyday life, and suggest general principles that can support healthy and lasting family relationships.

The method used in this study is thematic content analysis, where important ideas from the texts were identified, grouped into themes, and then linked to common family issues seen today-like conflict between parents and children, emotional stress, or lack of communication between partners. Along with the primary texts, relevant commentaries and modern writings on Buddhist ethics and psychology were also referred to for deeper understanding.

The goal was to find how the original teachings of the Buddha could help us deal with real-life problems in families today. The study highlights important causes of disharmony, such as greed (lobha), anger (dosa), and delusion (moha), and also explores positive qualities like gratitude (kataññutā), patience (khanti), truthfulness (sacca), and loving-kindness (mettā), which can support healthy relationships.

As a key contribution, the study offers a conceptual model that matches the common family problems with Buddhist teachings along with suggested actions thereby making it easier to see how the Dhamma can be applied in daily life. The study also brings together ideas like the Five Precepts and the Four Brahmavihāras that can be followed by anyone who wants to build a peaceful and caring home environment. This model may also serve as a foundation for future studies on the effectiveness of Buddhist approaches to real-world family issues.

This research contributes new knowledge by presenting a conceptual model that systematically links Buddhist virtues with contemporary family conflicts

DEVELOPMENT OF READING COMPREHENSION SKILLS THROUGH JATAKAS IN THERAVADA BUDDHISM USING KWL PLUS MODEL FOR THE 1ST YEAR UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF FACULTY OF EDUCATION, MAHACHULALONGKORNRAJAVIDYALAYA UNIVERSITY

2025-08-20T14:25:24+07:00

The objectives of this research were to: 1) study the problems in English reading comprehension skills for the first-year undergraduate students, 2) design and develop the English reading comprehension skills through Jatakas in Theravada Buddhism using the kwl plus model for the first-year undergraduate students and 3) assess students’ feedback on the kwl plus model. The target group comprised of 40 first-year undergraduates, with a sample of 20 students enrolled in the 2024 academic year. The research tools were: 1) the four lesson plans based on selected Jataka stories using the KWL Plus teaching, 2) implementing pre-tests and post-tests to assess reading comprehension skills, 3) collecting data through questionnaires and feedback forms to evaluate students’ attitudes and satisfaction, 4) analyzing data using statistical methods (mean, standard deviation, t-tests) and qualitative analysis of student feedback.

The findings were found that students are highly motivated and confident in reading Jataka stories in English, but still need targeted support to overcome persistent comprehension challenges. By focusing on vocabulary, grammar, digital support, and explicit reading strategies, educators can help these students achieve greater success and enjoyment in their reading and further boost their confidence and reading success. Meanwhile, students’ English reading comprehension skills, it significantly improved after learning by using the KWL Plus model with Jataka stories, as evidenced by higher post-test scores compared to pre-test scores at \bar{x}=25.5, S.D.= 1.9 and \bar{x}=18.4, S.D.= 4.1) and T-test score getting statistically significant level at 0.05. These demonstrated enhanced abilities in vocabulary acquisition, understanding text structure, identifying main ideas, and summarizing content and students’ Feedback indicated high levels of satisfaction with the teaching approach, reported increased motivation, engagement, and positive attitudes towards English reading, attributing their progress to the integration of familiar and relevant Jataka stories with the structured KWL Plus model.

Key Words: Reading Comprehension Skills, Jatakas, KWL Plus, Theravada Buddhism.

ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION MODEL USING TO DEVELOP CREATIVITY AND BUILD CAREER SKILLS OF STUDENTS AT THANOM RATBAMRUNG SCHOOL, MUEANG DISTRICT, TAK PROVINCE

2025-07-30T21:44:29+07:00

The objectives of this research were : 1) Study the learning management conditions of Thanomrat Bamrung School. 2) Create an academic administration model, MINE Model, to develop creativity and build career skills of students at Thanomrat Bamrung School. 3) Experiment with the academic administration model, MINE Model, to develop Creativity and building career skills of students at Thanomrat Bamrung School 4) Evaluate the academic administration model MINE Model to develop creativity and build career skills of students at Thanomrat Bamrung School.

The research results found that:

Management conditions learned from analysis of necessary needs The maximum analysis value is In terms of learning management to develop career skills, I= 31, desired condition D=97 (I-D)/D= 0.680, indicating that administrators and teachers Want to develop students' career skills to have better competencies.
Create a model and confirm the model 1) using Active Learning teaching and teaching with design thinking 2) Confirm the model with Delphi Technique. The results of the analysis of IQR = 0 for all items show that the experts have opinions that consensus and confirm the validity of the model with a CFA measurement model.
Use the model to experiment with learning management with 157 students in Mathayom 4 and 6 of Thanomrat Bamrung School. The creativity of students in Mathayom 4 and 6 was measured in 14 areas as well. Jellen & Urban's Creativity Test
Evaluate the results of using the model with LGM statistics. It was found that after using the student model There is a rate of development in creativity. They are significantly different at .01 **all 14 aspects.

PUBLIC SERVICE QUALITY OF SAMUT PRAKAN PROVINCIAL ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION

2025-10-14T02:54:33+07:00

The research aimed to: (1) examine the quality of public services provided by the Samut Prakan Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO); (2) analyze the challenges and obstacles in service provision; and (3) propose strategies for improving service quality. This qualitative research employed purposive sampling with 22 key informants, including five senior executives, five operational staff members, two political science scholars, five community leaders, and five local residents. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using descriptive summarization.

The findings revealed that: (1) The PAO has consistently improved public services. In infrastructure, road and drainage systems have been upgraded to meet community needs. In quality of life, healthcare and educational services have expanded, although disparities in access remain. Community organization emphasized safety through the installation of CCTV systems and safety training programs. Investment and tourism development policies focused on attracting investors and improving infrastructure to promote local economic growth. Environmental services prioritized sustainable waste management, while cultural initiatives promoted the preservation of local heritage and indigenous knowledge through community-based projects. (2) Major obstacles included insufficient budgets, shortages of personnel, and ineffective public communication, which undermined service credibility and limited public access to information, thereby reducing citizens’ confidence in the PAO’s capacity to address community needs. (3) Recommended strategies for service improvement include long-term planning and efficient budget allocation, developing collaborative networks with other agencies, creating online reporting systems to enhance community security, introducing tax incentives to attract investment, promoting cultural tourism, fostering environmental awareness, and utilizing digital technology to disseminate and revitalize local cultural heritage.

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT WITH COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION AT BANG KHUN THIAN DISTRICT OFFICE BANGKOK METROPOLITAN

2025-10-14T03:01:22+07:00

The research aimed to: (1) examine community-based solid waste management in Bang Khun Thian District, Bangkok; (2) analyze key factors influencing waste management; (3) identify challenges and obstacles; and (4) propose strategies for effective community participation. This qualitative research employed semi-structured interviews with 20 key informants, including four district executives, six staff members, five community leaders, and five local residents. Data were analyzed through descriptive interpretation.

The findings revealed that: (1) Community-based waste management played critical roles in four dimensions. In decision-making, communities actively engaged in planning and setting directions with the district office. In implementation, residents participated in activities such as waste separation and resource reduction campaigns. In benefit-sharing, communities gained from systematic waste management and income from recycling. In evaluation, communities could monitor and assess project performance, fostering shared accountability. (2) Factors influencing effective waste management included the leadership role of community leaders in mobilizing participation, public knowledge of waste separation, environmental awareness that encouraged sustainable behaviors, and clear communication that enhanced community engagement. (3) Major obstacles were insufficient community cooperation, collection systems that did not meet local needs, a shortage of waste bins, and low public awareness, which hindered the achievement of waste management goals. (4) Proposed strategies emphasized raising environmental awareness, strengthening collaboration through community committees, applying technology in waste management, creating incentives for participation, and supporting continuous training programs.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION WORKING OF POLICE ADMINISTRATION INSPECTION AND MONITORING COMMITTEE (PAI) OF POLICE STATIONS, SA KAEO PROVINCE

2025-12-04T20:00:35+07:00

This research article aims to: (1) analyze the factors influencing public participation in the operations of the Police Administration Monitoring and Inspection Committees (PMC) of police stations in Sa Kaeo Province; (2) examine the current problems and obstacles affecting public participation in the work of the PMC; and (3) propose recommendations to enhance community engagement in the functioning of the PMC in Sa Kaeo Province. This qualitative research employed purposive sampling to select 26 key informants, consisting of: (1) five police officers; (2) six PMC members; (3) two scholars and experts; and (4) ten general citizens. Semi-structured interviews were used as the primary research instrument, and the data were analyzed through inductive reasoning and presented in descriptive form.

The findings reveal that: (1) public participation is affected by limited public understanding of the PMC’s roles and mandates, mixed attitudes involving expectations and distrust, conventional participation channels that remain unchanged, insufficient state support and coordination, difficulties in accessing information, and socio-cultural norms emphasizing hierarchy and conflict avoidance; (2) major obstacles to public engagement include the lack of knowledge concerning PMC responsibilities, ineffective communication channels, low confidence in PMC neutrality, inconsistent participation, cultural constraints on public expression, and limited resources and governmental support; and (3) strategies for strengthening participation include organizing community forums and disseminating information regarding PMC responsibilities, expanding participatory channels, enhancing communication skills among police personnel, promoting public trust through transparency, and building collaborative networks to support sustained civic engagement.

INTEGRATED TOURISM MANAGEMENT IN SAMUT SAKHON PROVINCE

2025-12-08T13:02:39+07:00

This research objectives were (1) to analyze the integrated tourism management in Samut Sakhon Province, (2) to study the problems and obstacles in integrated tourism management in Samut Sakhon Province, and (3) to propose guidelines for integrated tourism management in Samut Sakhon Province. The research was qualitative. The key informants were 4 government executives, 3 local government executives, 7 tourism business operators and representatives of various business groups, 2 community leaders, 2 local scholars, and 2 local villagers. The selection method was purposive selection. The research instrument was an interview. Data analysis was performed using descriptive summarization.

The research results found that (1) the integrated tourism management in Samut Sakhon Province was a clear tourism policy and systematic integrated planning. The coordination between government agencies, private sectors, and communities still need to be improved. Communities played an important role in planning and managing tourism, with sustainable management of natural and cultural resources. In addition, the development of tourism products, especially seafood, and tourism promotion activities were important for the local economy. Marketing and public relations used online media and created networks to increase the number of tourists. Personnel were developed to have skills and knowledge in providing services and managing tourism, (2) the problems and obstacles in integrated tourism management in Samut Sakhon Province found that the main problems affecting tourism development were: lack of skilled personnel, lack of cooperation between the government and the community, lack of budget, inappropriate marketing, and unresolved environmental and waste management problems, and (3) the guidelines for integrated tourism management in Samut Sakhon Province’s approach had 3 principles: developing the quality of tourist attractions and infrastructure, creating cooperation between the government, private sector, and the community in a “trilateral” format, using local resources sustainably to generate income for the community.

LIFE QUALITY OF THE ELDRY IN PATHUM THANI PROVINCE

2025-12-09T12:48:09+07:00

This research objectives were (1) to analyze the life quality of the elderly in Pathum Thani Province, (2) to reflect problems on the life quality of the elderly in Pathum Thani Province, and (3) to provide recommendations to promote the life quality of the elderly in Pathum Thani Province. The research was qualitative. The key informants in this research were 4 executives and staff of the Office of Social Development and Human Security, Pathum Thani Province, 4 executives of local administrative organizations in Mueang Pathum Thani District and Nong Suea District, 4 personnel of local administrative organizations in Mueang Pathum Thani District and Nong Suea Subdistrict, and 10 elderly men and women aged 60 and over living in Mueang Pathum Thani District and Nong Suea District, totaling 22 people. The purposive selection was used. The research instrument was a semi-structured interview. Data were analyzed using data interpretation and presented descriptively.

The research results found that (1) the life quality of the elderly in Pathum Thani Province included: the elderly had chronic health problems, problems in accessing health services, lacked of close family relationships, the elderly relied on government welfare and wanted to increase their incomes and social relationships through organizing activities from government agencies and religious activities. Elderly schools and digital technology were channels for developing new skills, environmental issues, housing problems and pollution affect the lives of the elderly. Opportunities must be created to participate and felt valued in society, (2) the problems on the life quality of the elderly in Pathum Thani Province included economic problems, health problems, access to public health services, social isolation, lacked of resources, and problems of rights that the elderly should receive, (3) the recommendations to promote the life quality of the elderly in Pathum Thani Province included strengthening community cooperation, providing equipment and facilities for the elderly, supporting family participation in caring for the elderly, organizing activities for the elderly to play a role in the community, establishing volunteer groups in the community and training in additional occupations, developing social and economic support systems.

ADMINISTRATIVE MODELS FOR ENHANCING RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PRIMARY SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES: A CASE STUDY OF THE CHANTHABURI PRIMARY EDUCATIONAL SERVICE AREA OFFICE

2025-08-03T23:29:41+07:00

This academic article aims to examine the models and approaches of school administration for enhancing community relations in primary schools under the supervision of the Chanthaburi Primary Educational Service Area Office. The study considers the roles of school administrators, administrative processes, participation of school personnel, and the effectiveness of school–community relationship development. The content focuses on analyzing administrative processes that emphasize community participation across planning, implementation, evaluation, and continuous development stages. The article highlights the importance of two-way communication between schools and communities, as well as the engagement of community leaders, parents, local organizations, and other stakeholders in co-thinking, co-creating, and co-developing educational initiatives.

Findings reveal that effective administrative models consist of three core components 1) continuous two-way communication between the school and the community, 2) participatory planning at all levels, which fosters a sense of ownership and ensures the sustainability of projects, and 3) partnership linkage through collaborative network structures. Three prominent administrative models were identified: 1) Policy Co-creation Model – involving joint policy formulation with local administrative organizations, 2) vertical Network Model – focusing on strategic coordination with central or affiliated agencies, and 3) local Stakeholder Participation Model – opening space for local partners to actively engage in educational development. These models are aligned with the cultural context and social structures of Chanthaburi province. Thus, administration aimed at fostering school–community relationships must go beyond basic coordination. It requires goal-oriented planning, a clear vision, and sustained participatory mechanisms to truly position the school as a center for learning and community quality-of-life development.

INTEGRATING BUDDHIST ART, LANDSCAPE AND ARCHITECTURE TO DEVELOP TEMPLES INTO RAMANĪYA – THE PLEASANT PLACES

2025-08-13T14:03:38+07:00

ABSTRACT

This article is for study “Integrating art, landscape and architecture to develop temples into pleasant – ramanīya places.” The study was conducted through a framework of Buddhist philosophy and environmental design that promotes mental healing. The results revealed that developing temples into pleasant places should consider three key aesthetic components: 1) Creation of Buddhist art that conveys Buddhist principles and beauty, 2) Layout planning and architecture consistent with Buddhist concepts including cosmology, Tribhumi (Three Worlds), functionality, and local wisdom, and 3) Landscape design that promotes tranquility according to the Sappaya principle. Buddhist concepts serve as both science and art, with the Dhamma Chakra symbolizing dharma in terms of art, while principles of cosmology, Tribhumi, and Sappaya serve as models for Thai temple design in landscape architecture and architecture. Properly integrating these three components helps create an atmosphere that makes temples conducive to study, dharma practice, and mental development. It also promotes temples as sustainable spiritual and cultural centers for communities. Additionally, if community members actively participate in the maintenance and development of temples, this collective engagement will significantly contribute to the sustainability of these sacred spaces as ramanīya environments.

AN INTERPRETATION OF THE COSMOLOGICAL CONCEPT EMBODIED IN THE CHEDI OF WAT PA SAK, CHIANG SAEN, CHIANG RAI

2025-07-26T04:01:14+07:00

This academic article aims to interpret the cosmological concepts embodied in the stupa of Wat Pa Sak Chiang Saen in Chiang Rai Province, which stands as a significant historical monument reflecting Buddhist beliefs of the ancient Lanna people. The cosmological conception of Wat Pa Sak Chiang Saen stupa represents a distinctive structural paradigm, illustrating the system of planes of existence (bhava-bhūmi) and the cycle of rebirth (saṃsāra-vaṭṭa). The architectural arrangement positions the stupa as the principal element, symbolizing Mount Meru (Sineru-pabbata) as the cosmic axis, thereby reflecting Buddhist doctrines and philosophical principles in a unique architectural expression. The stupa's components are distinctly divided to demonstrate the interconnection with the three-tiered cosmological concept: (1) the base of the stupa, representing the Sītandara Ocean and the human realm (manussaloka); (2) the middle section, symbolizing the Tāvatiṃsa Heaven and other celestial realms (devaloka); and (3) the apex, signifying Nibbāna and liberation from the cycle of rebirth. Thus, the cosmological concept of the Wat Pa Sak Chiang Saen stupa constitutes an architectural model of cosmic structure, symbolizing the psychological and moral processes through which humans aspire to develop themselves toward the attainment of Nibbāna. Moreover, it serves as a reminder of the perpetual cycle of rebirth, encouraging spiritual cultivation toward ultimate liberation from saṃsāra.

FAITH‑BASED RECREATION IN THAILAND’S SACRED MOUNTAIN AREAS: FAITH, FATIGUE, AND TRANSCENDENCE

2025-10-24T22:01:21+07:00

The transition into an aging society in the twenty-first century has created substantial structural challenges to the holistic well-being of older adults and individuals with chronic illnesses. Within the Thai context, a distinctive form of participation has emerged through pilgrimage activities on sacred mountains, where spiritual devotion is deeply intertwined with demanding physical exertion. This article aims to 1) analyze the participation of older adults and chronic illness patients in faith-based recreational activities within the Thai cultural context; 2) apply the Faith–Fatigue–Transcendence Model (FFT Model) to explain the transitional mechanism through which faith and fatigue are transformed into transcendence that nurtures vitality and self-development toward Active Aging (Phruetthaphlang); 3) examine the connections between mountain pilgrimage and the spiritual, social, and holistic dimensions of recreation among older adults; and 4) propose development guidelines for faith-based recreational spaces and activities that sustainably foster Active Aging in Thai society. This study synthesizes academic literature and field observations from Khao Khitchakut, Khao Wong Phrachan, and Phu Lanka. The synthesis reveals that older adults do not perceive fatigue as a barrier but regard it as a ritual mechanism that unites faith, effort, and contemplative practice, ultimately giving rise to a state of transcendence. This transformative process generates meaning, belief, and hope, which form the foundation of vitality and the emergence of active aging. The findings broaden the conceptual scope of recreation to include cultural and spiritual dimensions within the Thai context. Furthermore, the authors introduce the FFT Model to explain the role of sacred landscapes as recreational environments that support meaning-making, vitality, and holistic well-being. Practical recommendations are also presented regarding spatial design, safety management, and accessibility enhancement aligned with participants’ capabilities, with the intention of strengthening the use of cultural capital to improve the quality of life of older adults in Thailand.

BUDDHIST METHODS FOR MANAGING ANGER: INTEGRATING BUDDHIST PSYCHOLOGY AND BUDDHIST SOCIOLOGY FOR A PEACEFUL SOCIETY

2025-10-04T14:42:43+07:00

Anger is a major cause of violence and social problems, often leading to physical harm and even loss of life, as in the recent incident where a food delivery rider was fatally assaulted. Such tragedies bring profound consequences not only to the victims and their families but also to society at large. Buddhism places significant emphasis on managing anger in order to prevent the suffering and harmful outcomes it generates. In Buddhist teachings, anger is regarded as an unwholesome root (akusala-mūla), arising from four primary causes: ignorance (avijjā), craving (taṇhā), sensory contact (phassa), and attachment to self (attā). The effects of anger manifest through harmful actions of body, speech, and mind, undermining the well-being of both oneself and others.

To counteract anger, Buddhism offers several key principles: mindfulness (sati), which enables recognition of angry states; patience (khanti), or endurance in the face of provocation; loving-kindness (mettā), which cultivates goodwill toward oneself and others; non-hatred (adosa), the refusal to harbor resentment; and wisdom (paññā), which discerns the causes and consequences of anger. Practical methods include observing and acknowledging the arising of anger, restraining harmful bodily and verbal expressions, reframing one’s perspective toward challenging situations, cultivating compassion and kindness, and engaging in continuous mindfulness and meditation practice.

Applying these teachings can effectively reduce anger and its associated suffering, fostering inner peace and harmony. Ultimately, this leads to a calmer life and sustainable, compassionate coexistence with others.

U THONG ANCIENT CITY: THE CENTER OF TRADE AND BUDDHISM IN THE EARLY DVARAVATI PERIOD

2025-12-01T14:22:09+07:00

This article aims to study the ancient city of U Thong as the center of the Dvaravati Kingdom, emphasizing its role as a port city, trade center and the oldest Buddhist center, in order to connect the glorious past of Suvarnabhumi with the new generation. Through systematic document analysis and a comprehensive overview, it is found that:

The U Thong ancient city was an important center of the early Dvaravati Kingdom (9^th-13^th Buddhist centuries), located on what is believed to be Suvarnabhumi. It evolved from a prehistoric settlement into a port and trading center with connections to both the East and West. With the king at the center of administration, it was able to effectively organize and direct economic activities. Key evidence confirming this status is the discovery of Roman coins, beads and silver coins inscribed with the name “Sīdvāravati Śvārapūnya”

U Thong is also the oldest center of Buddhism in the region, blending local animist beliefs, which regard artificial mountains as sacred, with Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism influenced by India and Srivijaya. Evidence of Hindu-Brahmanic practices, such as Hindu temples and lingams, is also found, reflecting the cultural fusion of the area.

U Thong declined in power and was abandoned during the 16^th-17^th Buddhist centuries due to changing geographic and political factors, but remains a historically significant site and symbol of Buddhism in Suvarnabhumi. This is reflected in the construction of the current Phra Phuttha Pusyakiri Sri Suvarnabhumi statue.

THE JOURNEY ON THE PATH OF DHAMMA OF EMPEROR ASOKA IN BUDDHIST LITERATURE

2025-10-24T22:15:02+07:00

King Asoka the Great was a monarch of the Maurya Dynasty whose empire extended across the entire Indian subcontinent, with the center of his royal authority located in the city of Pataliputra. He was a real historical figure who lived during the 3rd century Buddhist Era. After he embraced Buddhism, he conducted himself as a righteous king who upheld the Ten Royal Virtues. He actively supported and strengthened Buddhism through the construction of monasteries, temples, and stupas, as well as by patronizing the Third Buddhist Council. He also sent nine groups of missionary monks to propagate Buddhism in various regions, which contributed significantly to the stability and enduring presence of Buddhism in lands such as Sri Lanka and areas of Southeast Asia. Moreover, the teachings inscribed on King Ashoka’s rock edicts are timeless. In the present day, studying his life and actions allows one to apply these teachings in practice. One particularly important principle is the cultivation of compassion and the commitment to refrain from harming living beings.

The royal biography of King Asoka the Great appears in Buddhist literary works composed from around the 9th Buddhist Era onward—namely the Dipavamsa, the narrative introduction (Nidānavannana) in the Samantapāsādikā, the Mahāvamsa, the Asokāvadāna, and the Ashokan rock inscriptions.

The accounts concerning King Asoka found in these sources can be woven together into a remarkably coherent narrative. Moreover, the content of each text reflects historical and literary value, and the story of King Asoka serves as an exemplary model for those who follow in his footsteps.

BHIKKHUNĪS AND SOCIAL CHANGE: COMPARATIVE LESSONS FROM TAIWAN, SRI LANKA, AND THAILAND

2025-11-01T13:46:49+07:00

This article investigates the revival of the Bhikkhunī order and its impact on social change in Taiwan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Employing comparative historical methods and documentary analysis of both secondary sources and relevant primary materials—including organizational reports, bhikkhunī network publications, and legal or religious institutional documents—the study examines the patterns, processes, and key factors influencing the revival. The findings reveal three primary models of revival: (1) continuity through established traditions, (2) proactive revitalization supported by international networks, and (3) institutional resistance. The major enabling factors include the flexibility of existing bhikkhunī ordination lineages, the presence of transnational networks, support from Buddhist organizations, and prevailing societal attitudes within each country. In contrast, the principal obstacles consist of local legal restrictions, internal power conflicts within national monastic communities, and divergent interpretations of monastic discipline.

The article proposes several policy-oriented recommendations: promoting education and training for bhikkhunīs, establishing formal practice and learning spaces, and creating platforms for dialogue among relevant sectors to enhance public acceptance. The revival of the Bhikkhunī Saṅgha not only transforms religious status but also catalyzes notable social changes, such as expanding women’s roles in public service and education, reshaping gender norms within communities, and increasing institutional pressure to reform policy frameworks. Consequently, the re-establishment of the bhikkhunī lineage serves as a measurable and substantive driver of social transformation in the region, with outcomes assessable through both quantitative and qualitative indicators in future research.