Journal of Thammawat

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)

Sanan Changprung, Songsak Promdee — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700

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.

Model of Religious Property Management (Land) at Wat Sai Mun Muang, Phra Singh Sub-District, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai Province

Chotika Phalasak, Uten Laping — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The purpose of this article was: 1) to study the management of religious property (land); 2) to propose guidelines for the management of religious property at Wat Sai Mun Mueang, Phra Sing Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai Province. This was a qualitative study, employing documentary research and in-depth interviews, with data analyzed through a descriptive method.

The research found that: 1) Wat Sai Mun Mueang manages its religious property (land) through systematic, transparent, and legally compliant lease agreements, providing stable income for effective development of Buddhist activities while giving tenants secure residency rights and reducing community disputes. Applying Buddhist principles—the Four Brahmavihara, Six Saraniyadhamma, and Seven Sappurisadhamma—has further strengthened unity and enhanced the temple's image as a center of justice and cooperation. 2) The main problem was insufficient knowledge of land-use laws and regulations, leading to conflicts and unclear management. Although addressed through legally valid lease agreements with assistance from the Chiang Mai Provincial Buddhism Office, the process still faced resistance and delays. 3) Management guidelines should focus on building legal knowledge through personnel training and clear, transparent lease agreements to foster cooperation and prevent conflicts between the temple and community, applying Buddhist principles to promote sustainable relationships. It was also recommended that the Chiang Mai Provincial Buddhism Office act as an advisor to improve efficiency, standards, and transparency in property management.

Buddhadhamma Application for Enhancing the Work Performance of Personnel in the Secondary Educational Service Area Office, Nan

Areerat Mansan, Thitiwut Munmee — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The purpose of this research article was: 1) to study the level of work potential; 2) to study the relationship between the Bala: strength; force; power and work potential; and 3) to present the application of Buddhist principles to enhance the work potential of personnel in the Nan Secondary Educational Service Area Office. The research employed a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative research used a sample of 1,145 teachers and educational personnel from the Nan Secondary Educational Service Area Office, selected using Taro Yamane's formula to obtain a sample size of 297 people. Data was analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson correlation coefficient. Qualitative research used in-depth interviews with 10 key informants, analyzed using content analysis.

The research revealed that: 1) the overall work potential of personnel was high, both in terms of motivational factors (work success, recognition, job characteristics, responsibility, and career advancement) and supportive factors (salary, relationships with supervisors, colleagues, subordinates, policies and administration, working conditions, and job security), all of which were at a high level; and 2) Bala: strength; force; power had a very strong positive correlation with the work potential of personnel. 3) Guidelines for applying Buddhist principles to enhance work performance, which are statistically significant at the 0.01 level. Promoting intellectual strength to develop knowledge alongside morality; developing diligence to build perseverance in work; reinforcing integrity according to the principle of Anavajja-bala; and promoting social strength to build cooperation, along with developing motivational and supportive factors such as recognition of work performance, welfare, and the work environment, so that personnel could perform their work effectively.

Buddhist Methods to Promote Motivation in the Prevention and Resolution of Drug Problems of Ban Luang District Administration, Nan Province

Teerayut Borirukkul, Kiettisak Suklueang — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The purpose of this research article was: 1) to study the level of motivation for drug prevention and problem-solving work; 2) to compare the motivation for the implementation of drug prevention and problem-solving work; and 3) to present the Buddhist method to promote motivation in the implementation of drug prevention and problem-solving work of the Ban Luang District Administration, Nan Province. This was a mixed-methods research study. Data were collected from a sample of 105 respondents, determined using Taro Yamane's formula. Descriptive data analysis was conducted using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, along with t-test and F-test analyses. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed in cases involving three or more groups of independent variables. In addition, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 key informants, and the data were analyzed using content analysis techniques to present guidelines.

The research revealed that: 1) The overall motivation in performing drug prevention and resolution work among the administrative officials of Ban Luang District, Nan Province, based on the Iddhipada principles, was at a high level (= 4.41). 2) Regarding the comparison by personal factors, gender, education, income, and length of service did not result in differences in motivation, whereas age and position did result in differences in motivation. 3) The Buddhist approach to promoting motivation in performing drug prevention and resolution work among the administrative officials of Ban Luang District, Nan Province, through the application of the Iddhipada principles, together with job content factors and working environment factors, played a significant role in fostering sustained commitment and dedication in the performance of duties.

Mental Objects in Contemporary Song Literature of Phayao

Warawat Sriyabhaya, Parichart Pothi, Nalinpat Mekkriengkrai — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The purpose of this research article aimed to synthesize the content and presentation techniques of mental objects in the contemporary song literature of Phayao, The research methodology began with a comprehensive collection of relevant data, specifically gathering content and techniques for presenting mental objects from 31 contemporary Phayao musical compositions. The data were subsequently analyzed and synthesized through the application of the mental objects concept and Literary Rasa theory.

The research revealed that the factors contributing to the creation of musical literature with spiritual emotions are the composer, the performer, and the audience. The content and presentation techniques of mental objects can be classified into two characteristics: single mental object, which evokes feelings of wonder, compassion, love, peacefulness, and enjoyment; and combined mental objects, which evoke two or more kinds of mental objects. These include wonder paired with love, peacefulness paired with wonder, enjoyment paired with wonder and peacefulness, and love paired with peacefulness and wonder. Such mental objects are presented through literary style and expressions of high linguistic and literary value, thereby sustaining the contemporary song literature of Phayao with enduring value.

A Study of Traditional Woven Textiles Used in Buddhist Practices in Nan Province

Ronnarong Tojaem, kittisak Tawboonyapinikun, Sorawut Suesaetasit — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The purpose of this research article was: 1) to examine the patterns and beliefs inherent in the local woven textiles of Nan Province; 2) to study the local woven textiles utilized in Buddhism within Nan Province; and 3) to analyze the values of these Buddhist-related textiles. Data were collected through documentary research and fieldwork, utilizing in-depth interviews with 20 key informants. The gathered data were analyzed using descriptive analysis.

The research revealed that: 1) the patterns of Nan’s local woven textiles can be categorized into four types: floral and botanical patterns, animal patterns, utensil patterns, and celestial and aquatic patterns. These motifs reflect nature, faith, and the local way of life. Concurrently, four dimensions of belief are manifested in these textiles: Buddhist beliefs, beliefs regarding auspicious timing and travel, superstitious and amulet beliefs, and protective beliefs. These diverse patterns serve as symbols of auspiciousness, abundance, and protection. 2) ten types of local woven textiles are employed in Buddhism, namely: manuscript wraps (Pha Ho Khamphi), flags (Tung), pagoda drapes (Pha Hom Phrathat), Buddha image drapes (Pha Hom Phrachao), ceiling drapes (Pha Phedan), ceremonial banners (Pha Lo), sitting mats (Pha Asana), shoulder bags, shawls, and Kathina robes. Each type possesses distinct religious functions and meanings, reflecting the community's profound faith in Buddhism. 3) The value of local woven fabrics used in Buddhism comprised five aspects, namely: 1) Moral value, serving as material offerings (Amisa-dana) that foster unity, while encapsulating the Four Paths of Accomplishment (Iddhipada IV) and the Four Aspects of Faith (Saddha IV); 2) Aesthetic value, characterized by exquisite patterns and colors; 3) Utilitarian value, applicable to various religious ceremonies; 4) Economic value, generating income and strengthening the community economy; and 5) Cultural value, embodying the identity, beliefs, history, and livelihoods of ethnic communities.

The Development of Learning Potential for Students at Ban Muang Tuet School, Muang Tuet Subdistrict, Phu Piang District, Nan Province, through Buddhist Principles

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The purpose of this research article was: 1) to investigate students’ learning potential at Ban Muang Tuet School, Nan Province; (2) to develop such potential through Buddhist principles; and (3) to evaluate the outcomes of this development using the Threefold Training (Trisikkha). This study employed action research methodology, conducting in-depth interviews with 21 key informants and organizing a learning potential development activity based on the Threefold Training (Trisikkha) principles for 26 participants. Data were analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

The research revealed that: 1) Students' learning potential across all five domains—communication, thinking, problem-solving, life skills, and technology use—was rated at good to excellent levels, with particular strength in creative thinking and self-reliant life skills. Limitations were identified in systematic thinking, emotional regulation when facing problems or collaborating with others, and the tendency to use technology for entertainment rather than learning. 2) The development of learning potential was carried out by applying Buddhist principles in alignment with the five competency domains: communication based on Right Speech (Samma Vaca), thinking based on Wise Reflection (Yonisomanasikara), problem-solving through concentration (Samadhi) and wisdom (Panna), life skills based on the Five Precepts and Five Virtues (Pancasila–Pancadhamma), and mindful and wise use of technology. This process relied on continuous collaboration between the school and families. 3) Evaluation results of the Buddhist-based learning potential development showed clear improvement among students with prior limitations in discipline and concentration, with scores increasing by 100–150 percent from baseline. Positive changes progressed from morality (sila) to concentration (samadhi) and wisdom (panna), reflecting that the Threefold Training was an interconnected and mutually reinforcing process for human potential development. The findings demonstrated that this approach could concretely enhance learning and student development.

Khanti Dhamma in Kampoon Boontawee’s Novel a Child of Isan

Piyapong Wangkeeree, Pratheep Yosnarin, Jompon Somwung — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Khanti Dhamma, or the virtue of patience and forbearance, in Child of Isan by Kampoon Boontawee, was not merely a theoretical religious principle; rather, it was an embodied moral quality elevated to a crucial mechanism for sustaining life amid the deprivation of rural Northeastern Thai society in the past. The novel reflected how Khanti Dhamma functions as an ascetic discipline that forges the spiritual resilience of its characters through endurance of physical hardship and the scarcity of basic necessities within a harsh environment. It also encompassed the cultivation of calm composure in confronting suffering caused by illness under limited public health conditions. Moreover, Khanti Dhamma was manifested in the psychological dimension through the exercise of mindfulness and self-restraint in response to social insult and prejudice, as well as the suppression of sensual desires oriented toward fleeting gratification in order to uphold familial duties and long-term aspirations. This study therefore demonstrated that, within the context of Child of Isan, Khanti Dhamma constituted a foundational principle that transformed poverty into a source of self-reliant strength, enabling individuals to preserve their dignity and to transcend the adversities of fate with grace.

Innovative Approaches in Promoting Dhamma and Pali Learning for Contemporary Thai Buddhist Monks

PhramahaNaraphon Balanjayo Saengdech — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Dhamma education serves as a key role in Buddhist knowledge in Thai, while Pali functions as a linguistic medium that enables direct access to the original teachings of the Buddha. The findings suggest that effective promotion of monastic education in both Dhamma and Pali divisions should be systematically developed in six key areas, such as (1) curriculum development with clear structure and outcome-based learning, (2) systematic teacher professional development, (3) improvement of assessment and evaluation focusing on deep understanding, (4) enhancement of administrative management with transparency and efficiency, (5) motivation building for learners, and (6) integration of Pariyatti and Vipassana in response to contemporary social changes. Thus, the development of monastic education in Dhamma education and Pali studies must be implemented comprehensively, systematically, and continuously across all dimensions. Such efforts are essential for strengthening the stability and sustainability of Buddhism in Thai society.

Developing a Buddhist-based learning ecosystem for participatory organic farming networks in the artificial intelligence era

Charatsanone Tachom — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article presented the development of a Buddhist-oriented learning ecosystem through the CBMC (Community Business Model Canvas) process applied to the SDGsPGS organic agriculture network (Sustainable Development Goals – Participatory Guarantee System) in Nan Province. The study examines the role of CBMC mentors/facilitators in building farmers' capacity in three areas: marketing, the use of AI for communication, and value addition for organic agricultural products, as well as in preparing farmers for readiness toward SDGsPGS standards. An effective mentor should possess seven key characteristics:
1) Liberate, not dominate; 2) The answer lies with them; the goal lies with us; 3) Encourage thinking and dialogue, not lecturing; 4) Listen properly and communicate appropriately;
5) Make difficult matters simple; 6) Make oneself small and one's heart/mind great; and
7) Neither get ahead nor fall behind. These characteristics were rooted in Buddhist principles, namely Kalyayamitta-dhamma (virtues of a good friend), Yonisomanasikara (wise reflection), the Four Sangahavatthu (bases of social solidarity), the Four Brahmavihara (sublime states of mind), and the Majjhima Patipada (Middle Way). The body of knowledge discovered was the CBMC-BMLE Model, which connected Buddhist wisdom, mentorship, experiential learning, and the use of AI together to develop human potential, leading to community strength in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In an era when AI can answer questions rapidly, the mentor's role was not to provide answers, but to cultivate wisdom—enabling learners to discover answers for themselves.