STUDY TO THE APPLICATION OF BRAHMAVIHARADHAMMA TO SANGHA ADMINISTRATION IN SARABURI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the application of the Four Sublime States of Mind (Brahma Vihara) in the governance of the Sangha in Saraburi Province, 2) compare the application of the Four Sublime States of Mind in the governance of the Sangha in Saraburi Province, and 3) study the problems, obstacles, and suggestions for applying the Four Sublime States of Mind in the governance of the Sangha in Saraburi Province. The research employs a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative research uses questionnaires as a data collection tool. The sample group consists of 216 monks in Saraburi Province. Statistical analyses include frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Hypothesis testing is conducted using t-tests, F-tests, and one-way ANOVA. Qualitative research uses in-depth interviews with 9 key informants. Data is analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

The research findings show that 1) the overall application of the Four Sublime States of Mind in the governance of the Sangha in Saraburi Province is at a high level, with a mean of 3.80. 2) A comparison of opinions on the application of the Four Sublime States of Mind in the governance of the Sangha in Saraburi Province is shown among monks of age, years of ordination, and secular or Dhamma education levels. The study found that despite differing levels of Buddhist scholarship, participants did not differ significantly in their opinions regarding the application of the Four Sublime States (Metta, Karuna, Mudita, and Upekkha) in the governance of the Sangha in Saraburi Province. Therefore, research hypothesis 3 was rejected. Regarding the problems, obstacles, and suggestions for applying the Four Sublime States (Metta, Karuna, Mudita, and Upekkha) in the governance of the Sangha in Saraburi Province, issues related to understanding the principles, management, and internal conflicts within the Sangha necessitate training for monks to appropriately apply these principles in administration and co-existence.