TEMPLE MANAGEMENT FOR HAPPINESS

Abstract

This academic article focuses on examining the management of “Happiness Temples” (Wat Sang Suk), based on the longstanding and significant role of temples and the Thai Sangha in Thai society—from before the establishment of the nation to the present day. Both Thais and foreigners acknowledge Thailand as a Buddhist country, and temples serve as the cultural and spiritual centers of their communities. Their architectural uniqueness, sacred Buddha images, surrounding landscapes, and distinctive local characteristics attract visitors from both within Thailand and abroad. The study found that temple development and management can promote temples as learning centers and elevate them as a form of soft power, increasing economic and tourism value while encouraging public participation in religious activities. This enables temples to become hubs for community income generation. The Thai Sangha has established the “Wat Pracharath Sang Suk” policy to enhance temple management so that temples may serve as sources of well-being for the people, driven by collaboration among temples, local communities, and government agencies to sustainably improve both temples and communities.

Additionally, temple management requires Buddhist principles, the abbot’s power, legal compliance, and support from community volunteers. The integration of the 5S management approach with Buddhist teachings enables temples to be managed as spaces that foster well-being in accordance with the concept of Sappaya 7. This model has gained recognition in both Thai and Foreigners .  Effective temple management aligned with social conditions and the needs of local people helps temples develop distinctive identities and sustain happiness-generating activities for communities across generations, ultimately contributing to the sustainable well-being of Thai society.