SARANIYADHAMMA 6: THE DRIVING FORCE OF GRASSROOTS POLITICS

Abstract

This academic article focuses on the significance of applying the six principles of Saraniyadhamma as a driving force for grassroots politics, especially at the local level. Local politics serves as a crucial mechanism that provides citizens with close political participation, encouraging them to recognize their rights and duties in society, strengthening their civic consciousness, and enabling them to take part in decision-making related to local administrative policies. As a result, people are able to choose suitable representatives, clearly understand political processes, and closely monitor and scrutinize the work of their elected officials—something that is often more difficult in national politics, where citizens may feel more distant.  The study found that local-level participation forms the foundation for creating political equality and long-term political stability at the national level. Moreover, if local politicians and community members lack the application of moral principles in political administration, conflicts and confrontations tend to arise quickly—often more intensely than in national politics. Local politicians and residents constitute the grassroots political base of the country; therefore, they must establish a democratic foundation and conduct political activities in accordance with the six principles of Saraniyadhamma: Mettakaya-kamma (benevolent bodily actions), Mettavaci-kamma (benevolent speech), Mettamano-kamma (benevolent thoughts), Sadharana-bhogi (sharing and mutual generosity), Silasamaññata (common adherence to moral discipline), and Ditthisamaññata (shared right views). These moral principles cultivate unity within communities, strengthening the political foundation at the grassroots level and enabling the development of a fully democratic political system at the national level.