An Analytical Study of Sekhiyavatta, The Code of Etiquette Towards Thai Traditional Manner

Abstract

This article focuses on the study and analysis of religious observances affecting Thai manners. The results of the study found that the code of etiquette is contained in the seventh part of the 227 precepts of the monks. This part contains 75 precepts categorized into 4 sections: 1) the section of proper behavior (sāruppa, 26 precepts) regarding the proper manners of the monks in the public; 2) the section on food (bhojanapaṭisaṁyutta, 30 precepts) concerning food consumption; 3) the section on teaching dhamma (dhammadesanāsaṁyutta, 16 precepts) relating to preaching; 4) the section on miscellany (pakiṇṇaka, 3 precepts) regarding to minor miscellany. In regards to the influence of the code of etiquette on Thai manners, in the Vinaya Piṭaka, the code of etiquette contains regulations and teachings on manners that are very valuable to Thai manners because most of the manners that Thai people practice today include physical etiquette: walking, sitting, showing respect, eating, dressing and verbal etiquette such as conversations on various occasions. These are all based on the teachings of Buddhism. The Buddhist followers have adopted the principles of the code of etiquette to apply as a model for Thai etiquette such as paying homage, paying respect, walking, sitting correctly and properly. The physical and verbal actions are suitably conducted in each occasion and do not encroach one's self and others. This makes the whole world realize that Thai people are respectful, have good manners, humility and are able to coexist with other people in the society peacefully.