BUDDHISM : THE FOUNDATION OF IDENTITY THAILAND

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1 BUDDHISM : THE FOUNDATION OF IDENTITY THAILAND Montree Sirarojananan Faculty of Liberal arts, Thammasat University montree.sira@gmail.com Abstract This article intends to study the uniqueness of Thailand based on doctrinal in Theravada Buddhism. Buddhism is regarded as the foundation of Thai people because of Thai people respected Buddhist principles for long time that cause of identity and uniqueness of Thailand. Thailand's identity has its roots in Buddhism we can see from various parts of Thailand starting from Thai language most radically different is derived from Pali which is used to record the teachings of Theravada Buddhism. Thai food, Thai people has embraced the teachings of Buddhism about Sekhiya to adapted courtesy in dining and that foreigners generally understood to be the Thailand are the character beaming generous these traits considered Buddhist principles are essential to help instruct it to happen. Keywords: Buddhism; Foundation; Identity Introduction History of Thailand is a background with the history of Buddhism in the region that we can say the Buddhism is the national religion of Thailand although the Constitution does not prescribe this term but Thailand's faith and practicing the teachings of the Buddha on a regular basis. Some may practice their religion just philanthropy give alms precepts occasionally. Some may present you as precepts. Some may be interested in spiritual practices prayer or practice regularly. These practices are in compliance with the householder. But for a monk, follow the main principles that is not lacking. These are unique to Thailand, where Buddhism is the main anchor relied mind already. Thailand's unique character, which is consistent with the principles already but others may follow As well as some of the mingle with other This Paper Improved Presentation of the 2 nd MCU International Conference 19 May 2015.

2 76 Asia Pacific Journal of Religions and Cultures Volume 1 No principles. So, this article aims to review check out the concept and practice of Buddhist Thailand and believes that it is done Buddhism has its roots in a particular subject according to the principles of Buddhism or not. In addition, the author also suggest the creation of some unique harmonies that fit more into the modern era to developed Thailand keep pace with civilized country by maintaining the same identity that out of Thailand. Because, In these modern times, people from Western cultures, Thailand has been growing make the concept and some actions that are inconsistent with its unique culture and heritage of the beautiful Thailand. The meaning of identity Kukrit (1983) explained that the word of Identity It could be interpreted as a fair manner, either in a person or a people to make them aware of that he himself different from others and make others know that a person is one with its own identity but National Identity it makes people aware that they are in any race national and know people with the same ethnicity as the same race. Ekavit Na Thalang (1990) explained that identity means one characteristic is that no two, unique feature of institute of nation, national character, popularity, the structure of a society and a culture that has evolved to create a model for well over a long period by environment and socioeconomic factors as determining those characteristics. Songwith Kaewsri (1990) explained that Identity refers to the dominant feature is particularly evident among the group one nation or any nation that expressed themselves in a systematic and organized themselves. This is due to the accumulated value into a society of people that want to make clear to those established in other societies and a group of people that common sense and pride together From the Explanation of the meaning of the unique is quoted, it concluded that unique means characteristics of their individual and national well-a pronounced both themselves and others, they know their identity or the identity of the group, This feature has long been recognized as a national group that is valuable. The cause of pride and common sense to unity. This may be due to unique religious landscape and the economy as part of the place. This identity is vital to a nation or a people that is common to have seized the main subject of pride together. Features unique to the people, which is different from other nations, pride can occur, this will result in the national consciousness together to help save and cherish it with that is good and useful both for their own group. It's not a unique occurrence It took time to accumulate and adapted so that the unity of their own, and that is as it would show that a group of people together that have common sense stability, solidarity as well as maintaining a thriving too well (Kaewsri, 1990). A nation whose citizens are

3 Asia Pacific Journal of Religions and Cultures Volume 1 No uniting what are proud to share the main similarity is upheld a commentary in the same direction. It is better to help create livable society. Therefore, the study of this unique Thailand it is important to let people know Thailand itself has a somehow we should be proud and well maintained and especially unique feature of Buddhism in Thailand that they revered makes them appreciate even more. So in this article we aim to make people aware its own identity with a source of religion. In addition, the author hope to help the Buddhists in Thailand determine the Teachings as the source of Thailand identity it was correct doctrine or not. When any discrepancies we need to quickly resolve along with creating a desirable identity Thailand with religious principles that are useful to the current situation. Thailand has unique characteristics in many respects. In this approach, the author used the way that scholars have been divided as follows. a. The Institute is the nation religion and the king b. Thailand typical cultural, including social characteristics language arts conservative traditions and the relationship between members of society c. National character (Na Thalang, 1990) All this is enough to process that is unique to Thailand but the author will analyze and comment on the unique characteristics of Thailand, which is derived from the principles of Buddhism. But in modern Thailand, people get something new from the more western it makes Thailand identity existing began to fade away. In this article, the author considers the uniqueness Thailand about arts, culture of Thailand and national character try to searching by linked to the foundation of Thailand identity Buddhism has been the subject does by studying the art, culture and character depictions of Thailand. Buddhism; Foundation of Thailand Art and Culture Architecture This architecture it s very noticeable. Most builders have faith in Buddhism or influenced by Buddhism it is built with exquisite with so much sentimental value to the witness, building an institution demonstrates faith of Buddhist in Thailand towards Buddhism desired to reflect to get others know. Most of the builders were intended to honor Buddha dedicated to Buddhism, So that the faithful can take advantage of the public domain this is evident from the text that most of the architecture in place because faith in Buddhism and loyalty monarch construction of the pagoda temples castles palaces were so exquisite noble valuable sustainable. Palaces and temples are a source of great architecture. It is striking to the world a cultural ambassador that show the Great Identity of Thailand (Kaewsri, 1990). With architectural value with which the Creator has created this faith in Buddhism as well as evidence that Buddhism is a religion that is coupled to

4 78 Asia Pacific Journal of Religions and Cultures Volume 1 No Thailand for a long time, so far today. Those who want to study the history of Buddhism was based architecture, which is the Buddhist hall of the temple were a major source of research as the knowledge of the subjects. With the architecture is derived from Buddhism, the Buddhist of Thailand is trying to keep the property well maintained, successor to the children. And now Many foreigners who come to visit Thailand they would have visited temples and palaces with stunning architecture. It is a source of revenue to the country is huge. The art and culture of Thailand, which is unique from both the Buddhist architecture, language and cuisine, this is an example of the culture of Thailand relating to Buddhism, In fact, Thailand also has art and culture with other concepts from Buddhism, whether it's Thai painting, Thai literature, and Thai music, these queries to be found they come from a portion of Buddhism, as well as the way of life in Thailand is bound to Buddhism and all aspects, this is described on the outside, Next, in order to explain the uniqueness of Thailand has been influenced by Buddhism and into the lives and minds of Thailand. That is the character of Thailand. Buddhism: the foundation of character of Thailand National character trait, meaning that some individuals within the same vicinity, growing up in the same society, get training from the same culture, and the same experienced generating the same emotions and behave (Na Thalang, 1990). The national character of the country is different from the national character of the other countries, because each country has certain characteristics of its own, unlike other countries. These differences include the history of the past geographical environment, religion widespread and problems that these countries have faced. From the description quoted, keeping in mind that each person in the country to have a national character different away, one of the factors that determine the population in that country has specific characteristics, it is a religion, in Thailand, ethnic characteristics of Thailand, mainly due to the belief in Buddhism to explain clearly should show the national character of the people of Thailand are compiled below - free Spirit - absence of spite - known synergy - courteous - presumptuous - beaming - solitude peace - munificent - compromising flexibility - no malice - love resident - warrior The unique character of the people in Thailand, it is a good habit to analyze the origins of those habits of the principles of Buddhism, this explains the character of the great legendary people of Thailand have been refined from Buddhism. The character on the show is quoted. The author suggests that some

5 Asia Pacific Journal of Religions and Cultures Volume 1 No are close together, so the total is the same with analysis of the principles as a crucible for the character like that, in the search of the unique characteristics of Thailand the author considers the specific character depictions as clear to foreigners in general, including 1. Beaming 2. Courteous 3. Generous 4. Not like hurting others, forgive, no malice 5. Grateful to others 6. Presumptuous Beaming This is a special feature of the real Thailand. Whether happy or unhappy Thai people are always cheerful, Thailand is furious anger Stress does not last long, this is due to several factors the principles of Buddhism, and the geography of the country caused by the principles of Buddhism is mercy (Thai Tripitaka/12/ ) friendly people see who else is going to hurt too, forgive others always, as a big heart and principles of Buddhism that to refrain from evil and do good for the mind to clear. And due to the geographical features of the geography of fertility. Thai people do not have to worry if there is arable land growing up, what was faring well. Thailand is a land of water with fish in rice fields. The conditions are favorable environment and with the principles of Buddhism in Thailand, making such a beaming. Courteous In this manner, the two together is both polite and courteous, polite refers to the modesty and closest to tender that is modesty, humility not rebellious, the benign nature of this when analyzing the origins associated with Buddhism is matched Canon of Buddhist monk And the precepts of the householder normal body, speech done. The discipline of a monk is very uninitiated Thailand's recent ordination was a man of modesty, the doctrine of the salute, respectively, who have years older, the priests ordained later years have less need to respect priests ordained before (Thai Tripitaka/7/ 311/ ) this principle has been conveyed to them the importance of respect for adults, lead character of the children respect adults. Both Canon and respect each other in order to build this part of Thai people is a gentle character. Generous Thai People have a habit of contributing generously ready to help others considerate to each other and visitors always. Although Thailand's poor, but not drought. Any time there is a disaster for his countrymen. We saw every kind of person. Thai people are ready to help others, just have to see or hear the suffering of others, and sincerely without expecting a return. The character of Thai people is from bases of sympathy. (Thai Tripitaka 21/ 32/ 50-51) in Buddhism such as giving; generosity; charity, kindly speech; convincing speech, useful conduct; rendering services; life of service; doing good, even and equal treatment, teach a man to share a ride to another, known negotiations with beautiful words, do things that benefit others

6 80 Asia Pacific Journal of Religions and Cultures Volume 1 No Not like hurting others, forgive Thailand's humanitarian character of this are clear, that is, the principle of Buddhism is Five Precepts and merciful taught that humans and animals is going to hurt die with them (Thai Tripitaka/22/57/99-100) and compassionate, it is spread as Metta Compassion across likely to roll out a widespread lack of specificity does not extend all the way up, all these animals. This main mercy of Thai gives the character a kind one to another. In addition, together with the main principle that kindness is not vengeful vendetta, revenge together. A trait that people feel comfortable around Thailand, and do not like violence not clinging fiercely. Thai people has made it a habit not to revenge. These principles reflect the teachings of the Buddha that fate would not be suspended by revenge. Grateful to others This appears to be a trait characteristic of Asians, which has been influenced by Buddhism, for Thai people this gratitude is important feature, especially in the family Thailand is important for both parents as well as margarine grandparents. Also very grateful to the people of Thailand are also spread out to the other family. Thai people is considered when there is no one to do anything for us or get help from another, we will need to return the favor, This is a characteristic feature of the direct influence of the teachings of Buddhism that is grateful to someone (and reciprocate with loyalty) (Thai Tripitaka/1/ / ). Presumptuous The feeling did not want to create difficulties for others to their advantage, others seemed to dread, feeling like this for Thailand with a common theme. It is considered a decent, but for those who have a different culture to that, it features rare and difficult to understand, despite the use of English words of comparable meaning it does not like, this is likely due to the nature of the Buddhist teachings about karma that is everyone has their own karma, to allow others to do to us, we will also have to take action to be repaid in the future, so we do not want anyone to do anything for us, which would be difficult for others, and karma is upon us. The character of the six factors above this Thai people could be seen striking some faded somewhat with age However, Important shows The character of a Thai people is influenced by Buddhist a lot, almost all that, an indication of the contribution that Buddhism to Thailand, should that Thailand is proud of the character is good and helped care with a search to determine where to go to fully adhere to the correct inaccurate. The national identity is derived from the principles of this Buddhist, the author have shown that there is a connection to each other, The identity of

7 Asia Pacific Journal of Religions and Cultures Volume 1 No Thailand due to the influence of Buddhism, The art and culture of Thailand quoted as an example of the Thai architecture Thai Food and Thai language. The three parts are all influenced by Buddhism, belief, faith in Buddhism both direct and indirect. And in Thailand as part of its unique character, the six are quoted, the author have shown these traits are influenced by Buddhism. Sufficiency economy: enhancing its unique Thai Buddhist The author presents a Thai unique due to the influence of Buddhism, which is already available in Thailand, many people may understand it better, only to be presented to the uniqueness of Thailand, to make Thai Buddhist understand and remember Buddhism gratefully harmonies, helped to search and understand even more. The author suggests that there are also some traits the people of Thailand are still missing in this era, such traits that are essential to the livelihood and Thai social development, so it should be offered as a guide to create Thai unique along with Buddhist. But the problem is that In Buddhism, there are many principles, what principles should be used to build up a Thai unique. In this author's opinion that the principle should be to offer the works of His Majesty the King's Sufficiency Economy is guided. This concept of self-sufficient economy. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the initiative has the desire to be self-reliant in Thailand. He gave a self-sufficient economy, as revealed in his speech to present his audience with the King on the occasion of the birthday on December 4, 2542 says If enough people in need. It is also less greedy, when others are greedy little persecuted minority. If this idea the idea that there is nothing to suffice, honest people of modest means do not be greedy, we are happy. (Thepsittha, 2002) the philosophy of sufficiency economy works include several principles, and Buddhism principles such 1. The guiding philosophy of the existence and practice of people at all levels since the level of family, community and state. 2. The philosophy is to develop and administer the country, continue to the middle way 3. Will help economic development to keep pace with globalization, to keep balance and be ready to adapt to rapidly changing space. Both the social and cultural environment of the outside world as well 4. Sufficiency means moderation, reasonableness, including the need to have a good immune system enough to have any impact arising from changes in both external and internal 5. It requires knowledge, diligence and great care in bringing various academic use in the planning and implementation process 6. It is essential to strengthen the spirit of the nation. Especially public officials theorists and business at all levels, a sense of morality Integrity and provide a well-rounded manner, life with patience, perseverance, wisdom and prudence

8 82 Asia Pacific Journal of Religions and Cultures Volume 1 No Sufficient economy we are able to analyze the principles of Buddhism to be unique as Thailand. 1. Middle way, to take the middle path In the opinion of the middle path is correct and that you have the eighth and the Noble Eightfold Path is the middle way is not sufficiently fit too tight and not too loose. 2. Solitude is not a simple life-saving vanity superfluous. Consumer spending is the main distribution of the fourth estate is divided into four parts. (1.spend 2. investment 3. keep in needed) 3. Honestly and persistence the occupations with perseverance, and honestly, do not cheat, do not corrupt. 4. Leave vices both drugs, alcohol, gambling and the lottery. The fourth principle is the author whether to make Thailand unique, works of His Majesty the King has graciously provided. This initiative was provided for the people of Thailand have taken to comply. The author has analyzed the principles of Buddhism. The link to that. King of Thailand works with the principles of Buddhism. So Thai people should create a unique works are consistent with Buddhism. The author believes that Thailand, most people understand these concepts well. But the situation is rapidly changing society and country. Buddhist people in Thailand did not pay attention to these very principles, with everyone looking forward to have money work for them. In order to have a comfortable living, and forget the principles of good lifestyle Buddhism. It is abundantly grace of the people of Thailand are the kings who understand the principles of Buddhism are well able to direct population of Thailand to understand the essence of life without losing the power and objects of consumerism. Both these principles is the middle path. The solitude the perseverance and faith Principles and abstain from vices Creates a unique of Thai Buddhist as well. And that Thailand should be taken as a guideline. These occur primarily because of the works of the King of Thailand is derived from the principles of Buddhism. This is a pass and is truly correct principles. If Thailand were able to establish these principles and the unique national character. The author believes that Thailand was able to develop themselves and society, with the nation in the right direction and sustainability. Conclusion Thailand's national identity that can say that has its roots in Buddhism, especially Theravada. That Thai Buddhist has studied and practice passed down a long and cause the distinctive identities of Thailand. And a distinctive Thailand nationality. Although the character of Thailand, some of which may well be missed in some cities. It is known that Thailand people who do not live in the city. Lifestyles and temperaments still remains Thailand unique with great hospitality the admiration of outlandish to be seen. Thailand identity by

9 Asia Pacific Journal of Religions and Cultures Volume 1 No Buddhism that explained makes the importance of Buddhism as the foundation of its Thailand, and guide people to use Thailand as a major anchor for further development. The role and functions as one of the Thai Buddhist will have to help pay check and revive doctrinal way of life in Thailand to be closer to Buddhism as much as possible. In addition, its unique great King was given a life sufficiently for it. It is an identity that has its roots in Buddhist of Thailand where people can easily follow and easy to understand 4qWpbXJYvYvATZtafoCQ&q...W1TsqxuShRNpM:

10 84 Asia Pacific Journal of Religions and Cultures Volume 1 No References Pramot. K. (1984). National Identity. in Buddhism the national religion of Thailand. Editor by Chamnong Thongprasert. Bangkok : Amrin Printing. Mahachulalongkorn University. (1995). Thai Tripitaka. Bangkok: MCU Press. Phra Dhammapitaka (Prayut Payutto). (1993). The importance of Buddhism as the national religion. (7th ed.). Bangkok: Sahadhammika Printing. Phrarajworamuni (Prayut Payutto). (1985). Dictionary of Buddhism The process unfair, (4th ed.). Bangkok: MCU Press. Prasert Yamklinfung. National identity as a factor of national power, Government, no.9, vol. 1, refer to Ekavit Na Thalang, Analyze Thailand identity in change trends, (10 January 1969). Thepsittha, S. (2003). Buddhism and Thai unique and Buddhism is the state religion or not?. Bangkok: Somchai Printing. Thepsittha, S. (2004). Sufficient economy by His Majesty the King's work. Bangkok: Klangnanavidhaya Printing. Kaewsri, S. (1983). Thailand identity. Bangkok: MCU Press.

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