A MODEL OF TEMPLE DEVELOPMENT INTO EXCELLENCE IN THAILAND

Abstract

This research aimed: 1) to study the state of temple administration in Thailand, 2) to develop a model of temple administration towards excellence in Thailand, and 3) to propose a model of temple administration towards excellence in Thailand. This mixed-method research had 3 research steps: 1) to study the state of temple administration in Thailand using a questionnaire with a sample of 396 monks. Data were analyzed using statistics, namely percentage, mean, and standard deviation; 2) to develop a model by interviewing 23 key informants and analyzing data by content synthesis; and 3) to propose a model by focusing on group discussions with 9 experts and analyzing data by content analysis. The research results found that: 1) the state of temple administration in Thailand was overall at a moderate level. When considering each aspect, it was found that the state of temple administration was at a high level in 1 aspect, which was dissemination. The state of temple administration was at a moderate level in 5 aspects, which are governance, religious education, educational welfare, and public welfare. 2) to develop a model of temple administration towards excellence in Thailand. Consisting of vision, mission, model and 3) model of temple administration towards excellence in Thailand was the determination of the model of temple administration towards excellence that was consistent with the strategic plan for reforming Buddhist affairs 2018, consisting of (1) vision, which was stable Buddhism, upholding morality, leading to sustainable peaceful society; (2) mission. In order to make the vision come to fruition, it must be carried out in accordance with the missions of the Sangha in 6 areas: administration, religious education, educational welfare, propagation, public utilities, and public welfare; (3) model, consisting of 6 components according to the missions of the Sangha.