The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College (JIBSC)

The Role of Tuệ Trung Thượng Sĩ in Vietnamese Buddhism During the 13th-14th Centuries

Bhikkhuni Tran Thi Minh Trang — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This article investigates the pivotal role of Tuệ Trung Thượng Sĩ in the development of Vietnamese Buddhism during the 13th and 14th centuries, specifically within the context of the Trúc Lâm Yên Tử Zen school. He is recognized as a significant figure whose contributions profoundly influenced the trajectory of Buddhism during the Trần Dynasty in Vietnam. Employing a synthetic analytical methodology, this study examines three primary research objectives: (1) the biographical details of Tuệ Trung Thượng Sĩ and his relationships with key historical figures of the Trần Dynasty; (2) his role and influence in the establishment and doctrinal orientation of the Trúc Lâm Yên Tử Zen school; and (3) his characteristic activities and contributions to Trúc Lâm Buddhism.

Through a comprehensive review of existing historical and Buddhist documents, this research assesses that Tuệ Trung Thượng Sĩ exerted a substantial influence on Vietnamese Buddhism during this period, both in terms of philosophical thought and practical application. The findings reveal that Tuệ Trung Thượng Sĩ played a crucial role in shaping the spiritual and ideological foundations of Trúc Lâm Buddhism, despite his lack of direct involvement in the formal administrative structures of the Buddhist establishment. His teachings and interactions with prominent figures of the time contributed significantly to the unique character of Trúc Lâm Zen. This study elucidates the enduring impact of Tuệ Trung Thượng Sĩ on the development of a distinctly Vietnamese form of Zen Buddhism, emphasizing his contributions to the intellectual and spiritual legacy of the Trần Dynasty. Furthermore, this research highlights the importance of re-evaluating historical figures who influenced the development of Buddhism beyond formal institutional roles.

Healing the Professional Soul: Dhamma Music and the Landscape of Workplace Mental Health

somhathai limwathana — Sat, 08 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0700

In an era of digital overload, disengagement, and rising psychological strain, workplace mental health has transcended being merely an organizational concern to become a critical human crisis. This study examines the profound impact of modern work environments on mental well-being and explores the potential of Buddhist mindfulness practices—particularly Dhamma music meditation—as viable interventions. Despite significant investments in workplace wellness programs, a substantial gap remains between organizational support structures and employees’ mental health needs. Current statistics indicate that only 23% of employees feel fully engaged at work, contributing to an estimated $8.9 trillion in lost productivity, alongside severe emotional and psychological costs.

This study investigates the intersection of ancient Buddhist wisdom and contemporary workplace challenges, emphasizing the role of the Noble Eightfold Path in fostering resilience and professional fulfilment. Particular attention is given to Asian workplace contexts where cultural perceptions of mental health shape individual coping mechanisms and organizational responses. By analyzing the integration of traditional mindfulness practices with modern workplace well-being strategies, this research presents evidence supporting the effectiveness of Dhamma music meditation in enhancing mental clarity, emotional balance, and professional engagement.

The findings suggest that a sustainable approach to workplace well-being necessitates a dual strategy: systemic organizational support and adaptable, evidence-based mindfulness practices such as Dhamma music meditation. By bridging ancient contemplative traditions with contemporary psychological needs, this study offers a pathway toward fostering healthier, more engaged professional environments.

Buddhist Peaceful Means for Healing Shopaholics: Mindfulness, Loving-Kindness, and Wise Attention

Oranuj Ittipakorn — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0700

In today’s fast-paced, consumption-driven environment, Compulsive Buying Disorder (CBD) has emerged as a significant psychological concern, resulting in considerable distress, financial instability, and social disruption. Propelled by digital marketing, social media, and e-commerce, shopaholism has reached unprecedented heights, calling for immediate and effective intervention.

This article examines Buddhist Peaceful Means as an innovative, holistic approach to tackling shopaholism. Unlike traditional therapies focusing primarily on symptoms, this method investigates underlying causes, offering preventive and curative solutions. By incorporating mindfulness (sati), loving-kindness (metta), and wise attention (yoniso manasikāra), this framework nurtures self-awareness, emotional resilience, and intentional decision-making. These principles, inspired by the teachings of Phra Brahmagunabhorn (P.A. Payutto) and supported by psychological insights, create a practical blueprint for healing compulsive buying behaviors.

Beyond individual recovery, this approach underscores broader implications, illustrating how Buddhist wisdom can provide relevant solutions to contemporary consumerism. Examining desire, attachment, and materialism challenges prevailing consumer culture while advocating for mindful consumption and ethical decision-making. The fusion of Buddhist philosophy and psychology addresses compulsive buying and contributes to sustainable well-being and societal transformation.

This article demonstrates how Buddhist Peaceful Means can enrich modern therapeutic models, effectively bridging psychological and spiritual healing by applying time-honored Buddhist principles. This integration represents a vital advancement in treating behavioral addictions and promotes a more balanced and mindful consumer culture.

Fostering Growth Mindset Through Mindfulness for Happiness in Today's Life.

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0700

In an era marked by escalating mental health challenges, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic’s socioeconomic and psychological fallout, fostering resilience and well-being has become a global imperative. Contemporary neuroscience reveals the brain’s dynamic capacity for neuroplasticity—the ability to reorganize neural pathways through learning and experience—which underpins cognitive adaptability and emotional resilience. However, rising rates of anxiety, depression, and social disconnection highlight systemic gaps in addressing mental health through traditional frameworks. This article argues that integrating mindfulness practices with growth mindset theory offers a transformative approach to cultivating happiness by harnessing neuroplasticity to reframe adversity and nurture psychological flexibility.

Drawing on interdisciplinary research, the study explores how mindfulness—a practice rooted in present-moment awareness—strengthens prefrontal cortical networks linked to emotional regulation, while growth mindset interventions reorient individuals toward viewing challenges as opportunities for development. Empirical evidence demonstrates that this synergy reduces maladaptive rumination, enhances academic and workplace performance, and mitigates relapse in conditions like depression. However, barriers such as cultural stigma, misconceptions about mindfulness’s secular applicability, and limited access to evidence-based programs hinder widespread adoption.

By synthesizing contemplative traditions with modern psychology, this article proposes actionable strategies to embed mindfulness and growth mindset principles into education, workplace wellness programs, and community initiatives. It emphasizes the need for policy reforms to prioritize mental health literacy and scalable interventions, particularly for marginalized populations disproportionately affected by post-pandemic stressors. Ultimately, this holistic framework empowers individuals to transcend fixed thought patterns, fostering sustained happiness and equipping societies to thrive amid uncertainty.

Buddhist Monks who Journeyed from Funan to China for Scripture Translation: A Study Based on the Continued Biographies of Eminent Monks

Chakhrit Laemmuang, Prapakorn Bhanussadit, Wilaiporn Sucharitthammakul — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The Continued Biographies of Eminent Monks (Xu Gaoseng Zhuan) documents the journeys of four monks who traveled from Funan to China for scripture translation. Among them, three were natives of Funan—Saṅghapāla, Mandra, and Subhūti—while one, Paramārtha, hailed from India. These monks lived in China during the 6^th Century, dedicating themselves to the translation of Buddhist scriptures. This article offers an overview of the evidence supporting the presence of Buddhism in Funan and its surrounding regions from earlier periods up to the 6^th Century, drawing upon archaeological discoveries and Chinese historical accounts. It illustrates that Buddhism had been thriving in the region since the 4^th Century.

Furthermore, the article paraphrases the records concerning these four monks as documented in the Continued Biographies of Eminent Monks and investigates their translation efforts. A comparison between the accounts in the Continued Biographies of Eminent Monks and the scriptures preserved in the Taishō Tripiṭaka (Taishō Shinshū Daizōkyō) reveals that some of the works translated by these monks have been lost over time. However, 32 scriptures translated by Paramārtha have survived to this day, surpassing those attributed to the other three translators. Among the remaining monks from Funan, Saṅghapāla is credited with the highest number of surviving translations, totaling 11 scriptures. This study further emphasizes the close and enduring relationship between Funan and China during the 6^th Century.

The Buddhist Ways to Develop Human Values as Depicted in the Theravāda Buddhist Scriptures

Khemar Nandi, Phramaha Nantakorn Piyabhani, Phramaha Anon Ānando — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This paper examines the Buddhist methods for cultivating human values as depicted in the Theravāda Buddhist scriptures. Human values, which guide individuals in distinguishing right from wrong, are essential for personal growth and societal harmony. Unlike moral values, which are universal and unchanging, human values vary across individuals and contexts, influencing behaviors that contribute to the betterment of human life. Theravāda Buddhism emphasizes the development of human values through four key practices: Faith (Saddhā), Offering (Dāna), Morality (Sīla), and Meditation (Bhāvanā). These practices foster ethical living, harmonious social interactions, and spiritual growth, ultimately leading to a meaningful and valuable life. Faith serves as the foundation for spiritual practice, enabling individuals to trust in the Buddha’s teachings and persevere through challenges. Offering, or generosity, cultivates kindness and detachment from material possessions, while morality provides a framework for ethical conduct through the observance of the Five Precepts. Meditation, on the other hand, develops mindfulness, concentration, and insight, helping individuals overcome mental defilements such as greed, hatred, and delusion. This paper explores how these Buddhist principles can be applied to modern society to promote human development and well-being. By integrating these practices into daily life, individuals can achieve greater inner peace, social harmony, and spiritual fulfillment. The teachings of the Buddha offer timeless wisdom for navigating the complexities of contemporary life, providing a path toward personal and collective transformation. Through an analysis of key Buddhist texts and their practical applications, this paper highlights the relevance of Theravāda Buddhism in addressing the challenges of the modern world and fostering a more compassionate and ethical society.

The Way to Pace: Living according to the Buddhist Five Precepts in Myanmar

Ven. Kawliniya — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This article comprehensively explores the potential for peacebuilding in Myanmar through the practice of the Buddhist Five Precepts. It investigates the underlying causes of conflict and unrest within the country, framing these issues within the context of Buddhist teachings. Emphasizing the significance of the Five Precepts, these moral guidelines can serve as a foundational framework for addressing Myanmar's multifaceted societal challenges, including political instability, ethnic strife, governance failures, economic difficulties, educational deficits, public health crises, and endemic violence.

The study analyzes Myanmar's historical and cultural landscape, highlighting how entrenched societal norms perpetuate a cycle of discord. Examining past conflicts reveals that applying the Five Precepts can facilitate personal transformation and societal healing. The Precepts, while traditionally viewed as ethical guidelines for lay Buddhists, possess the capacity to unify diverse communities and promote peace.

Furthermore, this article advocates for integrating Buddhist teachings into educational curricula and community initiatives to cultivate open dialogue, mutual respect, and collaboration among conflicting parties in Myanmar. By emphasizing the principles of compassion, mindfulness, and ethical conduct, it seeks to bridge divides and facilitate understanding in a society marred by tension and discord. Ultimately, it argues that the intentional practice of the Buddhist Five Precepts offers a viable and effective strategy for achieving sustainable peace in Myanmar, enhancing individual well-being, and promoting collective harmony. Pursuing "Living the Buddhist Five Precepts" emerges as a critical and practical endeavor in addressing the ongoing challenges to peace in the region. By instilling these principles in both personal lives and community frameworks, we can nurture a culture of peace that holds the potential to transform conflict into cooperation, ultimately leading to a more harmonious society.

An Application of Peace (Śānti) for Daily Life in Mahāyāna Buddhism According to Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra

Tenxin Rabgay, PhraMedhivajarapundit, Phramaha Weerasak Abhinandavedi — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research investigates the following dimensions: 1) To study the Mahāyāna Buddhist framework for the concept of peace (Śānti) and the essential practices of peace. 2.) To analyse peace (Śānti) and the principal practice of peace for enhancing harmony by Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra. 3) To apply this peace (Śānti) in daily life according to Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra. The study utilizes various sources, including the Tripiṭaka, Mahāyāna textbooks, research works, and Bhutanese literature.

The findings indicate that, according to Mahāyāna teachings, initiating essential practices is vital for achieving peace. Attaining inner peace allows individuals to foster peace within families, communities, and globally, emphasizing that personal peace is crucial for extending peace to others. The research also highlights that, as stated by Master Śāntideva in the Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra, “If I do not interchange my happiness for others’ pain, enlightenment will never be attained”. This suggests that true peace requires a mutual exchange of happiness and suffering. To apply peace (Śānti) in daily life, we should: 1). Understand the Roots of Suffering: Recognize that suffering comes from attachment and craving. 2). Cultivate Compassion: Focus on the well-being of all beings, reducing negative emotions. 3). Refrain from Negative Actions: Avoid harmful speech and actions while practicing mindfulness. 4). Engage in Positive Activities: Foster virtues like generosity and ethical conduct to benefit ourselves and others. By following these principles, we can achieve lasting peace motivated by compassion for all beings.

Applying Loving-kindness Practice Under Buddhist Perspective in the Japanese-Vietnamese Cross-cultural Environment at the Workplace in Vietnam

Mac Bao Ngoc, Sakchai Sakabucha , Ven. Nguyen Anh Tuan — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This article examines the application of Buddhist loving-kindness (Mettā Bhāvanā) in addressing cultural conflicts within the Japanese-Vietnamese cross-cultural workplace environment in Vietnam. The study aims to study (1) the causes leading to cultural conflict in the workplace between Japanese and Vietnamese in Vietnam, (2) concepts and theories of loving-kindness practice under Buddhist perspective, and (3) To propose loving-kindness practice process under Buddhist peaceful means in the Japanese-Vietnamese cross-cultural environment at workplace in Vietnam. Utilizing a qualitative methodology, the research gathers insights through in-depth interviews with Buddhist scholars and business professionals involved in Japanese-Vietnamese joint ventures.

The findings reveal that cultural conflicts often stem from differences in communication styles, work ethics, hierarchical structures, and expectations regarding professional conduct. Japanese corporate culture, characterized by indirect communication, strict discipline, and a collective work ethic, often contrasts with the more flexible, hierarchical, and relationship-oriented Vietnamese work culture. These disparities frequently result in misunderstandings and tensions in the workplace. The research highlights that incorporating Buddhist loving-kindness practices can effectively bridge these cultural divides, fostering empathy, mutual respect, and emotional intelligence. Employees can adopt a mindset prioritising understanding over conflict by cultivating compassion and enhancing collaboration and workplace cohesion.

Furthermore, the study suggests that organizations can integrate loving-kindness practices through structured training programs, workshops, and leadership development initiatives. This may involve a secular adaptation of Buddhist principles derived from Theravāda, Mahāyāna, and Vajrayāna traditions, promoting inclusivity in diverse corporate environments. However, challenges persist, particularly in aligning these values with profit-driven business objectives. Some leaders may view loving-kindness as a sign of weakness, necessitating a strategic approach to demonstrate its value in boosting long-term productivity and employee well-being. Ultimately, this research emphasizes the transformative potential of loving-kindness practices in multicultural workplaces, offering a sustainable approach to conflict resolution, employee satisfaction, and organizational harmony.

Buddhist Peaceful Means in Shopping Addiction Treatment: Integration of Mindfulness, Yoniso Manasikara (Wise attention), and Loving-Kindness in a Novel Therapeutic Model

Oranuj Ittipakorn — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This article presents a study focused on (1) the integration of three key Buddhist psychological principles—mindfulness (sati), wise attention (yoniso manasikara), and loving-kindness (metta)—in the treatment of compulsive buying disorder (CBD), (2) the creation of an innovative therapeutic framework that incorporates traditional Buddhist contemplative practices, and (3) the practical implications for clinical applications and future research directions. The methodology for data collection involved a systematic analysis of canonical Buddhist texts and contemporary clinical research, specifically examining the Satipatthana Sutta, Sabbāsava Sutta, and Metta Sutta, as well as their accompanying commentarial literature. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and content analysis. The findings of this research

include:

Integrating mindfulness, yonis manasikara, and loving-kindness yields synergistic effects that surpass the benefits of each practice in isolation, thus creating a comprehensive framework for addressing shopping addiction at cognitive, emotional, and behavioral levels.
The development of “consumption discernment”—a refined cognitive capacity that emerges through the fusion of yoniso manasikara with other contemplative practices—enhances metacognitive awareness, value-based discrimination, and emotional intelligence concerning shopping behaviors.
A novel framework for adapting Buddhist contemplative practices to contemporary therapeutic contexts has been established. It provides systematic guidelines that maintain the transformative power of these practices while ensuring their accessibility to modern clients.

The Model of Happiness Workplace with Dhamma Music by Buddhist Peaceful Means: A Case Study of Flâneur Tea Café

Chintar Fungladda — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research article aims to develop a Happiness Workplace Model by integrating Buddhist teachings and Dhamma music. The objectives of the study were: (1) to analyze the environment of Flâneur Tea Café and explore the theories surrounding happiness in the workplace; (2) to investigate how Buddhist teachings and Dhamma music can promote happiness in work settings; and (3) to present a Happiness Workplace Model that utilizes Dhamma music at Flâneur Tea Café, grounded in the principles of Buddhist peaceful means. The research employed qualitative methods, including SWOT analysis, semi-structured interviews, and a 14-day trial implementation at Flâneur Tea Café. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.

The findings revealed three key insights:

The concept of happiness in the workplace encompasses physical, emotional, and social elements, fostering overall wellness and productivity. Flâneur Tea Café embodies the principles of workplace happiness through its architectural design, natural materials, and a contemplative environment.
Dhamma music is vital for creating a tranquil and focused workspace, as it fosters an auditory setting that enhances emotional stability and concentration.
The Happiness Workplace Model integrates mindfulness practices, biophilic design elements, and soothing auditory stimuli such as Dhamma music. These components promote mindfulness, ethical communication, and emotional resilience within organizational settings.

This research highlights the significant transformative potential of combining Buddhist principles with contemporary workplace needs. The Happiness Workplace Model offers a systematic and scalable framework for cultivating mindfulness, sustainability, and heightened productivity across diverse organizational environments.

The Promotion of Sympathetic Joy (Muditā) in Buddhist Psychology of PhD Students at International Studies College (IBSC), Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU)

Arlawka, Sanu Mahatthanadull, Phra Medhivajarapundit — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study explores the promotion of sympathetic joy (muditā) in Buddhist psychology, focusing on PhD students in the Buddhist Studies program at the International Buddhist Studies College (IBSC), Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU). The research objectives are threefold: (1) to analyze muditā meditation in Theravāda Buddhism and modern psychology as effective methods for its cultivation; (2) to investigate the practice of muditā among PhD Buddhist Studies students at IBSC, MCU; and (3) to propose a structured framework for fostering muditā within Buddhist psychology. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates textual analysis of Theravāda scriptures (e.g., Visuddhimagga, Dīgha Nikāya) and contemporary psychological literature, alongside semi-structured interviews with 15 PhD students and 9 meditation masters.

The findings indicate that the cultivation of muditā unfolds through four progressive levels. The first stage emphasizes sammā saṅkappa (right intention) to establish benevolence as a foundational mindset. The second stage cultivates 19 sobhana cetasikas (wholesome mental factors), such as mindfulness (sati), equanimity (upekkhā), and mental pliancy (kāya-passaddhi), aligning with the Sun and Moon Theory’s premise that positive states displace negative emotions like envy (issā). The third stage, termed “Maturement,” integrates ethical discipline (sīla) through right speech, action, and livelihood, ensuring moral stability as a prerequisite for sustained practice. The final stage enables practitioners to embody impartial muditā, rejoicing in others’ successes without bias, even toward adversaries. Findings reveal that successful muditā practice correlates with self-reported reductions in jealousy and enhanced emotional resilience, validated through participants’ reflective journals. Longitudinal benefits include advanced meditative absorption (jhāna), potential rebirth in the Brahmā realm, and progression toward the anāgāmi (non-returner) stage of enlightenment. This framework bridges classical Buddhist ethics with modern psychological paradigms, offering a structured pathway to nurture muditā as both a spiritual virtue and a tool for mental well-being in academic contexts. This research contributes significantly to the understanding and promotion of muditā, a valuable virtue for enhancing mental well-being and social relationships.