INTEGRATING THE KNOWLEDGE OF MEDITATION PRACTICE IN CONTEMPORARY THAI BUDDHIST CULTURE FOR DEVELOPING THE QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract

This research aims to: 1) study meditation practice models in Buddhist scriptures; 2) investigate the body of knowledge concerning meditation practices in contemporary Thai Buddhist culture; and 3) integrate said knowledge to enhance quality of life. This study employs a mixed-methods research design. Qualitative data were gathered through documentary research, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with 42 key informants. Quantitative data were collected via questionnaires distributed to a sample group of 60 first-year vocational certificate students, with data analyzed using descriptive statistics.The findings revealed that Meditation practice models in Buddhist scriptures constitute a knowledge system grounded in the principles of cause and effect, with the Four Foundations of Mindfulness (Satipaṭṭhāna) serving as the core for developing wisdom toward liberation.The three contemporary Thai meditation models the "Rising-Falling" method, the "Rhythmic Movement" method, and "Mindfulness of Breathing" (Ānāpānasati) are systematically linked to scriptural doctrines. Structurally, they are anchored in the Threefold Training (Sikkhā); doctrinally, they utilize effort (Viriya), mindfulness (Sati), and clear comprehension (Sampajañña) as mechanisms for mental balancing; and procedurally, they aim for a transition from conventional reality (Sammuti-paññatti) to ultimate reality (Paramattha-dhamma) to realize the nature of mind and matter (Nāmarūpa) in accordance with the Three Common Characteristics (Tilakkhaṇa). Integrating these three models under the framework of Buddhist Dhamma effectively promotes the quality of life among the sample group. The overall satisfaction assessment was at a high level ( = 4.35, S.D. = 0.50). The synthesized body of knowledge reflects a Buddhist innovation conducive to holistic quality of life development and can be applied as a model for sustainable wellbeing and human development.