Bodhidharma Application for Promoting the Public Participation towards the Sangha Administration in Pakchong Nakorn Ratchasima Province

Abstract

This study aims to achieve the following objectives: 1) examine the general conditions of people's involvement in the administration of the Sangha, 2) compare the opinions of individuals towards people's participation in the administration of the Sangha in Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province based on personal factors, and 3) demonstrate the application of Buddhist principles in promoting public participation in the governance of the Sangha in Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. This research adopts a mixed methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. The quantitative research component involves a sample group of 400 individuals from Pak Chong District, where data is collected through questionnaires and analyzed using statistical measures such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. On the other hand, the qualitative research component entails conducting in-depth interviews with a group of 9 key informants or individuals, with data being analyzed using content analysis techniques.

The study's findings revealed the following: 1) The study's findings revealed that people's involvement in the administration of the Sangha was generally positive. Decision-making was a collaborative effort, with joint decisions made regarding temple management. Additionally, there was active participation in the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of development projects. People also showed a willingness to help those in need through benefit sharing. 2) The study compared opinions on the governance of the Sangha and found that age, occupation, and education did not significantly affect opinions. However, there were differences in opinions based on gender and monthly income. The research hypothesis was accepted with statistical significance at the 0.05 level. 3) The application of Buddhist principles to promote public participation in the governance of the Sangha in Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, followed the 7 principles of Aparihayadhamma. These principles included regular meetings, meeting in unison, complying with regulations, respecting elders, not giving in to power, loving peace, and supporting good people.