The Roles and Missions of Thai Sangha in Buddhist and Contemporary Social Dimensions

Abstract

This article aims to examine and present the essential roles and missions of Buddhist monks as a fundamental institution of Buddhism and to analyze the roles of the Thai Sangha in religious, educational, social, and cultural dimensions. A review of relevant literature and related documents indicates that Buddhist monks play a vital role in preserving the Dhamma and Vinaya, disseminating the Buddha’s teachings, and serving as spiritual leaders in Thai society. They contribute significantly to sustaining Buddhism and promoting morality, ethics, education, and cultural development among the people. In the context of globalization and digital transformation, the Thai Sangha faces rapid changes in

social values, lifestyles, and technological advancement. Consequently, monks need to adapt their roles and develop competencies appropriate to contemporary society. The effective use of online media and digital technology has become increasingly important, while adherence to the Dhamma and Vinaya remains essential as a moral foundation for society. The future direction of the Thai Sangha lies in integrating spiritual wisdom with modern innovation in order to strengthen learning, faith, and sustainable social development. The article further proposes four developmental recommendations: 1) enhancing monastic education to meet the demands of the digital age, 2) promoting temples as centers of learning and moral cultivation, 3) strengthening collaborative networks among the Sangha, communities, and government agencies, and (4) developing contemporary roles and missions for monks to sustain Buddhism and contribute to the sustainable well-being of Thai society.