Method of Restoring Abandoned Temples in Chiang Mai Province by Phradepvachiradhibhodi (Ritthirong Nyanavaro), The Ecclesiastical Governor of Chiang Mai – Lamphun – Mae Hong Son Province (Dhammayut)

Abstract

The purpose of this article was: 1) to examine the conditions and problems of abandoned temples in Chiang Mai Province; 2) to study the approaches employed by Phradepvachiradhibhodi (Ritthirong Nyanavaro), the Ecclesiastical Provincial Governor of Chiang Mai, Lamphun, and Mae Hong Son (Dhammayut), in the restoration of abandoned temples in Chiang Mai Province; and 3) to analyze the methods of temple restoration implemented by Phradepvachiradhibhodi, the Ecclesiastical Provincial Governor of Chiang Mai, Lamphun, and Mae Hong Son (Dhammayut). This study was qualitative in nature. It involves a comprehensive documentary review and employs in-depth data collection tools. The data were analyzed using a descriptive analysis approach to interpret.

The research revealed that: 1) a large number of abandoned temples had not been officially registered or lack proper land title documents. Some were located within national forest reserves, national parks, or other government-owned areas, leading to legal overlaps and conflicts among relevant agencies. Additionally, the illegal excavation of antiquities had become a recurring issue. 2) The restoration approach of Phradepvachiradhibhodi emphasized integrated collaboration among government agencies, the Sangha, and local communities. His method paid attention to the conservation of religious heritage and ancient monuments, encourages the active participation of local monks and communities, and assigned competent monks to lead development efforts. He also promoted collective merit-making and the preservation of spiritual and cultural values associated with the temples.
3) Phradepvachiradhibhodi’s restoration model was systematic and holistic, integrating religious, cultural, historical, and community dimensions. It highlighted participatory processes and strict adherence to legal principles, resulting in the successful revitalization of abandoned temples as sustainable centers of faith, learning, and community development.