Boonrit Thepdon or the Doer

Abstract

Merit, Divine Blessings, or the Doer

Making merit and praying for blessings from deities, celestial beings, or sacred entities to grant one's wishes is a universal human belief, including among Thai Buddhists who practice Theravāda Buddhism. While Buddhist teachings emphasize self-reliance and discourage dependence on unseen forces, the tradition of requesting blessings and making supplications has been deeply rooted for generations, making it difficult to completely refrain from such practices.

The book "Merit, Divine Blessings, or the Doer" is a new publication by the Power of Mindfulness Institute 9. It aims to explain the concept of merit in a simple and comprehensible manner based on scriptural evidence. The book was first introduced at the Rai Samadhi Bannaruji retreat, located at the home of Prof. Dr. Banjop Bannaruji in Thammasen Subdistrict, Photharam District, Ratchaburi Province.

This book provides knowledge on the meaning of merit (boon), the meaning of supernatural power (rit), and what boonrit signifies. It also explores the concepts of divine intervention (thep don) and human agency (khon tham). The study examines the merit of significant historical figures, such as Venerable Sivali, Emperor Ashoka the Great, and Queen Mallika, addressing key questions:

• What kind of merit leads to great wealth?
• What merit brings abundant possessions?
• What merit turns land into gold?
• Does a mother’s desire to do good stem from her own merit or that of her child?

Additionally, the book explores the transformative merit of the Princess Mother, revealing how merit can dramatically change one's destiny.