The Succession of Chinese Shrines in Thailand: A Case Study of Lao Pun Tao Kong Shrine on Song Wat Road

การสืบทอดของศาลเจ้าจีนในประเทศไทย : กรณีศึกษา ศาลเจ้าเล่าปุนเถ้ากงถนนทรงวาด

Abstract

        The succession of Chinese shrines in Thailand has taken diverse forms, evolving from the past to the present.These succession methods have influenced shrine development in different ways. This research aims to examine the development of succession at the Lao Pun Tao Kong Shrine on Song Wat Road and to identify the factors influencing its continuity. A qualitative research approach was employed, using semi-structured in-depth interviews with three sample groups: the current manager of Lao Pun Tao Kong Shrine on Song Wat Road, Thai-Chinese members of the local community and administrative officers working for Department of Provincial Administration. The findings indicate that the development of shrine succession can be divided into three periods based on changes in shrine organization. The first period involved the selection of a suitable successor, focusing on individuals with the capability and trustworthiness to manage the shrine during its initial stage.This period influenced beliefs around and faith in the shrine, particularly regarding deities or gods and faith community members.The second period involved a combination of family (relative) succession and voluntary succession.This stage was also influenced by religious traditions or denominations as well as the roles of parents or guardians.The third and final period involved the formal selection of a shrine successor according to criteria aligned with government regulations.Factors influencing beliefs and faith during this period and