The research article titled “Venerable Mahākaccāyana in Various Documents, Part III: His Early Sermons and Contributions to the Content of Buddhist Scriptures” by Dr. Chakhrit Laemmuang is the much-anticipated third part of his series. Beyond the knowledge gained from the research, the article crucially serves as an exemplary scripture-based study involving a comprehensive examination and comparison of the contents of scriptures across various Buddhist traditions. The researcher must possess proficiency in the languages of the scriptures, including Pāli, Sanskrit, Chinese, Tibetan, among others. Additionally, the study includes references to the research conducted by numerous leading scholars globally, making it a noteworthy example of an internationally standardized research article. Those interested in scripture-based research should not overlook this valuable contribution.

        The research article “Analysis of the Issue that Mahāyāna Buddhism has its Origins in the Mahāsāṃghika School” by Phramaha Thunsun Kittisaro makes it explicit that the belief that Mahāyāna Buddhism originated from the Mahāsāṃghika School judging by their similar moral laxity and lack of strict discipline is a misinterpretation. The author has presented a substantial amount of evidence and reasoning to support this assertion.      

        The majority of Thai people hold sacred amulets in high regard, with a significant number having unwavering faith in the spiritual power of Buddhist amulets. Some renowned amulets are valued in the tens of millions of baht, and the fame of Thai amulets has reached beyond the country's borders, attracting believers from places like Singapore, Malaysia, China, and elsewhere. Many devotees from various countries come to Thailand seeking to purchase or rent these sacred objects. The article “Development of the Origin of Buddha Amulets in Thailand: Analyzing the Turning Point of Ideas and Beliefs in the Creation of Buddha Amulets in the Ayutthaya Period” by Ms. Supasinee Rattacu and Dr. Phatthida Raengthon provides insightful information on the evolution of the creation of Buddhist amulets. Readers will find both enjoyment and enlightenment in understanding the fascinating development of this practice.

        'Waste' is a significant issue in Thai society and globally. Proper waste management not only helps address environmental concerns but also greatly enhances the quality of life for people in that area. The research article "Learning and Practice Management Guidelines for Zero Waste Disposal according to Buddhist Administration Principles for Temples in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province" by Phramaha Apiched Muducitto and Dr. Orathai Moolkum examines waste management in temples using Buddhist principles and aims to apply these practices in other areas in the future.

        At present, Thailand is undergoing rapid changes across economic, political, and social dimensions. This has resulted in a significant decline in the number of Buddhist monks and novices, from 355,295 in the year 2555 B.E. to 288,342 in the year 2565 B.E. (2012-2022 C.E), marking a decrease of 66,953 individuals. If this trend continues, it could have substantial implications for the stability of Buddhism in the future. The research article “Distribution and Change in the Number of Temples and Buddhist Personnel in Thailand” by Asst. Prof. Dr. Supharerk O-in and Team provides geographic and statistical information. This data is beneficial for studying the situation and finding ways to address the challenges related to the number of Buddhist personnel. Understanding the distribution and changes in temples and personnel can contribute to developing strategies for maintaining the robustness of Buddhism in Thailand.      

        The research article “Development of Knowledge Centers for Prototype Communities in Thailand” by Phrakhrupiladdhammakorn (Natthaphon Prachunha “Candiko”), Asst. Prof. Ph.D. and Team explores the use of knowledge centers as focal points to propel Thailand into a learning society during the era of Industry 4.0.

        Currently, Thai society and the global community are undergoing rapid transformations due to new technological innovations, impacting every aspect, including the economy, politics, society, and education. Harnessing the wisdom of Buddhism, which serves as the most crucial soft power of Thai society, becomes highly beneficial in fostering stability and progress. It holds great importance in advancing both Thai society and Buddhism. Utilizing the benefits of Buddhist wisdom as a significant soft power is crucial for promoting stability and progress in Thai society. The involvement of Buddhist wisdom contributes significantly to the creation of a stable and progressive society in Thailand and holds great importance. Readers are invited to collaborate in creating a society that is wisdom-based, capable of addressing both changes and challenges from the perspective of Buddhism, in order to foster prosperity for our homeland.

Phragrupalad Suvattanabodhigun
(Somchai Thanavuddho)
19 January 2024