An Integration of Buddhism in order to Create Values in accordance with Suvarnabhumi in the Case of Wat Phra Pathom Chedi

Abstract

This research article aims to study the value of Wat Phra Pathom Chedi and integrate Buddhism in order to create value in accordance with Suvarnabhumi in the case of Wat Phra Pathom Chedi. It is qualitative research based on materials gathered from documents and field observation.

The research found several valuable aspects of Phra Pathom Chedi: 1) the temple has historical capital as well as national significance, 2) it is a provincial Sangha’s administrative center, 3) it is a participant in both governmental and community activity, 4) it has continuous and timely management with an abbot who is the primate-level bishop the equivalent of the region, having leadership and new policies to manage the temple, 5) it is generous to society and community, and 6) it is a Buddhist learning center.

As for integration of Buddhism in order to create value in accordance with Suvarnabhumi in the case of Wat Phra Pathom Chedi, it was found that this temple always assists other temples and the general public. Namely, 1) it makes offerings and donates for the restoration of the temple 2) it lends some of its grounds for the people’s various shops, 3) it produces holy amulets and provides offerings to the Sangha to enhance charity 4) it has allocated a public charity donation center 5) it is a center for monastic priestly learning, and 6) it is a center of Buddhist Dharma practice. In addition, the Buddhist teaching and the replicas of four Buddhist Holy Places in Wat Phra Pathom Chedi create learning and inspiration to come to worship and admire Phra Pathom Chedi, which is a memorial to the Buddha. They are consistent with the Buddhist teaching ‘Anuttatriya 6’. Wat Phra Pathom Chedi is considered a model for creating value in accordance with Suvarnabhumi, because it is a center of Buddhism where religious objects are dominant and unique. There is a continuation of local cultural traditions. It creates economic and occupational values for the surrounding communities, contributing and creating value for people in terms of economy, society, and quality of life development.