The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc <p>ISSN:<strong> 3027-6276 (Online)</strong></p> <p>The <em data-start="4" data-end="63">Journal of International Buddhist Studies College (JIBSC)</em> is dedicated to advancing scholarly research and academic dialogue in Buddhism, Religious Studies, and related disciplines. The journal welcomes submissions that focus on traditional Buddhist scholarship and explore its application in diverse fields such as economics, social administration, environmental studies, and education. Targeting scholars, researchers, and practitioners from both Buddhist Studies and interdisciplinary arenas, JIBSC serves as a dynamic platform for integrating Buddhist principles with contemporary academic and professional practices, thereby enriching our understanding of both traditional and modern societal challenges.<br /><br /></p> en-US <p>The Journal of TCI is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) licence unless otherwise stated. Please read our Policies page for more information on Open Access, copyright and permissions.</p> ibscjournal@gmail.com (JIBSC) ibscjournal@gmail.com (Mr.Nattakitt Udomphol) Thu, 01 May 2025 23:04:33 +0700 OJS 3.3.0.8 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 An Application of the Breathing Concept in Buddhism to Breathing Yoga Practice https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/280289 <p>This study explores the integration of Buddhist breathing concepts, particularly ānāpānasati (mindfulness of breathing), into contemporary yoga practice, highlighting its potential to enhance individual well-being and societal harmony. Three objectives: tracing yoga’s origin and development, analyzing how Ānāpānasati may refine yoga practice, and applying Ānāpānasati in breathing-based yoga. Data were collected via interviews with five practitioners versed in Theravāda Buddhism and Brahmanical (Vedic) traditions. This study underscores physiological, psychological, and ethical synergies between these traditions. Central to both practices are foundational breathing techniques that optimise autonomic nervous system function, reduce stress, and improve mental clarity. These methods foster physical health and cultivate emotional resilience, enabling practitioners to navigate challenges with equanimity by synthesising principles from Buddhist meditation and classical yoga.</p> <p>The study emphasises how ānāpānasati’s focus on present-moment awareness complements yoga’s holistic philosophy, which unites body, mind, and spirit through postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and ethical discipline. The four classical yogic pathways, Karma Yoga (selfless action), Jhāna Yoga (contemplative wisdom), Bhakti Yoga (devotional practice), and Kriya Yoga (energy cultivation), are examined as frameworks for addressing modern stressors, promoting balance across physical, cognitive, emotional, and energetic dimensions of human experience.</p> <p>On a societal level, integrating breath-centric mindfulness into community and institutional settings holds transformative potential. By reducing stress-related health burdens, enhancing focus in educational and workplace environments, and fostering prosocial behaviours rooted in compassion, these practices offer scalable solutions to contemporary issues such as healthcare costs, productivity deficits, and social fragmentation. The ethical imperatives embedded in both traditions, including non-harm (ahimsa) and selfless service (seva), further model a vision of collective well-being grounded in mutual respect and cooperation.</p> <p> The research concludes that the confluence of Buddhist breathing techniques and yogic discipline provides a robust, transdisciplinary approach to holistic health. It bridges ancient wisdom with modern scientific understanding, advocating for practices that not only elevate individual well-being but also nurture resilient, empathetic communities. By prioritizing mindful engagement over passive consumption, this integration presents a sustainable paradigm for addressing the complexities of 21st-century life, ultimately aligning personal transformation with broader societal flourishing.</p> <p> </p> vonna siri, Sanu Mahatthanadull, Ven. Neminda Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College (JIBSC) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/280289 Wed, 07 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700 Proposing Social Media Platforms for Peace-Making According to Buddhist Teachings for Resolving Family Conflicts https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/287074 <p>This study reimagines social media as a transformative tool for peacemaking in family conflicts by integrating Buddhist ethical principles. Addressing the dual role of digital platforms, as both conflict accelerators and potential reconciliation spaces, the research pursues three objectives: (1) analyzing existing social media roles in family conflict resolution, (2) examining Buddhist teachings applicable to these conflicts, and (3) proposing a Buddhist-inspired framework for social media design. Utilising qualitative methods, including document analysis and interviews with Buddhist scholars, social media experts, and conflict-resolution practitioners, the study identifies key challenges (e.g., impulsive communication exacerbated by nonverbal cue deficits) and transformative opportunities.</p> <p>Buddhist teachings offer a robust ethical and psychological foundation for transforming online interactions. In particular, the principles of Right Speech (Sammā Vācā), Mindfulness (Sati), Loving-Kindness (Mettā), and Gratitude (Katannu-Katavedī) emerged as essential for promoting respectful, non-reactive communication. We illustrate how guided Dharma discussions, meditative exercises, and digital content structured around these virtues can reduce hostility, rebuild trust, and support sustained reconciliation.</p> <p>Based on these insights, we introduce a comprehensive, Buddhist-inspired social media framework. Key components include AI-assisted moderation that flags and gently corrects harmful language; curated discussion forums anchored in ethical precepts; and interactive features such as live guided meditations, storytelling modules that model compassionate behaviour, and virtual support circles for family members. Together, these elements are designed to temper emotional volatility, encourage reflective engagement, and convert social media from a conflict accelerator into a vehicle for peace-making. </p> Thipchutha Pumkhem, PhraMedhivajarapundit, Mae Chee Narumon Jiwattanasuk Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College (JIBSC) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/287074 Wed, 14 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700 The Role of Confucian Principles in Regional Peacebuilding https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/287539 <p>This study examines Confucius's concept of harmony, derived from the Analects, and its implications for regional peace. Confucius posited that a well-ordered society is rooted in virtue, ethical leadership, and harmonious relationships. Specifically, this research aims to (1) examine Confucius's vision of governance through moral exemplarity, (2) analyze the role of harmony in interpersonal relationships, and (3) assess the relevance of Confucian thought for contemporary peacebuilding. Data were collected through an extensive review of the Analects and relevant secondary literature, and analyzed using thematic content analysis to distill key principles and their contemporary applicability.</p> <p>The findings yield three principal insights. First, Confucius underscores the importance of virtuous leaders whose moral conduct inspires similar behavior among their followers; this model aligns closely with modern concepts of integrity-based leadership. Second, Confucian teachings on harmony in family and society stress empathy, self-discipline, and mutual respect as essential components for fostering peaceful communities and promoting collaborative engagement. Third, Confucian harmony advocates proactive cooperation over mere conflict avoidance; values such as filial piety and reverence for authority continue to be foundational for social stability and collective well-being.</p> <p> In conclusion, the study asserts that Confucian moral leadership offers practical guidelines for conflict resolution and minimizing social discord. Confucius's conception of harmony cultivates cooperative relationships at familial, communal, and national levels. Additionally, Confucian values, such as social responsibility, respect for authority, and environmental stewardship, promote sustainable governance and global peace. By advocating for long-term stability, mutual understanding, and international cooperation, Confucian harmony offers a robust framework for fostering peace and sustainability in the modern world.</p> Ven. Junyi Chen Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/287539 Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0700 A Comparative Study of Full Ordination (Upasampadā) Patterns between Mahāyāna and Theravāda Buddhism in Vietnam https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/288701 <p>This research offers a comparative analysis of Full Ordination (Upasampadā) ceremonies found within Mahāyāna and Theravāda Buddhism in contemporary Vietnam. Set against the backdrop of Vietnam's diverse Buddhist landscape, this research article aims to achieve three primary objectives: (1) to examine the structure and evolution of the Mahāyāna Full Ordination Ceremony (Upasampadā) in contemporary Vietnam, (2) to examine the structure and evolution of the Theravāda Full Ordination Ceremony (Upasampadā) in contemporary Vietnam, and (3) to compare the pattern of Full Ordination (Upasampadā) ceremonies between Theravāda and Mahāyāna Buddhism within the context of Vietnam. This documentary research is based on documentary analysis, with data collected from both primary and secondary sources. It utilizes primary Buddhist texts, Vinaya scriptures, monastic regulations issued by the Vietnam Buddhist Saṅgha (VBS), and relevant scholarly research on Buddhist ordination.</p> <p>The findings reveal that the structure and evolution of the Mahāyāna Full Ordination Ceremony in contemporary Vietnam found that pre-ordination activities involve a detailed vetting process, including examinations, personal confessions, and ritual training for candidates. The formal Upasampadā ceremony follows the Dharmaguptaka Vinaya and is characterized by the presence of a Ten Venerable Masters Council, use of Sino–Vietnamese liturgy, and elaborate ceremonial aesthetics rooted in feudal and cultural traditions. Second, the investigation of the Theravāda Full Ordination Ceremony in contemporary Vietnam revealed a step-by-step structure closely aligned with the Pāli Vinaya. The ceremony is conducted by a Saṅgha council, including a Preceptor (Upajjhāya), two Ācariyas, and a quorum of witness monks. The process emphasizes simplicity and clarity, including the scrutiny of robes and bowl, candidate interrogation, and the enactment of A Motion and Three Proclamations.</p> <p>The comparative analysis of Full Ordination ceremonies in Mahāyāna and Theravāda Buddhism in Vietnam reveals shared Vinaya foundations, particularly the central role of A Motion and Three Proclamations. However, key differences exist in ritual structure, language, and cultural expression. Mahāyāna ordination, based on the Dharmaguptaka Vinaya, features a hierarchical Ten Masters Council, Sino–Vietnamese chanting, and elaborate ceremonial form influenced by Vinaya school, Mahāyāna monasticism and feudal traditions. Theravāda ordination, by contrast, follows the Pāli Vinaya with a simpler structure, Pāli recitation, and a focus on doctrinal clarity. The study highlights differences in pre-ordination training, Formal Upasampadā Ceremony, and Post-Ordination Instruction, while also noting efforts by VBS to standardise practices. These findings offer valuable insights into evolving ordination systems and suggest paths for enhanced Buddhist education, inter-tradition collaboration, and future research</p> Ven. Le Quang Minh Dat, Phramaha Nantakorn Piyabhani, Ven. Nguyen Anh Tuan Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/288701 Thu, 19 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0700 Buddhist Principles for Cultivating Proper Faith (Saddhā): Solutions to Blind Faith in Modern Society https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/288227 <p>This study investigates (1) the root causes and manifestations of blind faith in contemporary society, (2) the nature of faith (saddhā) and its proper cultivation from a Buddhist perspective, and (3) a practical, Buddhism‑based guideline to counteract uncritical belief. Our methodology involved a comprehensive review of canonical Buddhist texts and modern commentaries, supplemented by qualitative interviews with practising Buddhists. Data analysis employed content analysis and descriptive synthesis.</p> <p>Our findings indicate that blind faith, characterised by unquestioning acceptance, undermines individual autonomy, contributes to social fragmentation, and impedes genuine ethical development. In stark contrast, Buddhist teachings define authentic saddhā as a reasoned confidence born from personal experience, ethical conduct, and rigorous critical inquiry. The Kālāma Sutta serves as a foundational text, unequivocally urging practitioners to verify teachings through direct observation and reflection rather than accepting them solely based on authority. Informed by these insights, we propose a novel three-pillar framework, encompassing wisdom (paññā), ethical conduct (sīla), and mindfulness (sati), designed to guide the informed cultivation of saddhā. By seamlessly integrating reflective inquiry, moral action, and meditative awareness, this guideline aims to transform faith from a passive belief into a dynamic force for profound personal growth and enhanced social harmony.</p> Ven. Marnita, Phramaha Nantakorn Piyabhani, Ven. Neminda Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/288227 Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0700 A Comparative Study on the Concept and Practices of Perfection (Pāramītas) In Theravāda and Mahāyāna Buddhism https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/285791 <p>This documentary research investigates the concepts and practices of pāramī in Theravāda Buddhism and pāramitā in Mahāyāna Buddhism. Our primary objectives are to: (1) explore pāramī in Theravāda, (2) examine pāramitā in Mahāyāna, and (3) compare these concepts across both traditions. The study primarily utilises translated Pāli Tipiṭaka and Mahāyāna Sūtras as primary sources, supplemented by commentaries, sub-commentaries, Buddhist textbooks, and academic research from both schools, translated from Pāli and Tibetan.</p> <p>While sharing a common foundation, the teachings of pāramī and pāramitā exhibit distinct developments and emphases. Both traditions focus on the practices of Bodhisattas (future Buddhas) in their past lives, striving for Buddhahood. However, Theravāda largely relies on Pāli scriptures, while Mahāyāna employs Sanskrit texts, leading to divergent interpretations. Initially, the core meaning of both terms is similar, stressing virtues like generosity, morality, and patience. Later, Theravāda commentators expanded pāramī to thirty sub-qualities, making it relevant not only for Bodhisattas but also for Sāvakayana (disciples) and Pacceka Buddha (solitary realisers). In contrast, Mahāyāna introduced new terminology such as bodhicitta (the aspiration for enlightenment) and emphasised the qualitative aspects of the path.</p> <p>The ultimate goal in both traditions is Buddhahood, though Theravāda later accommodated other forms of enlightenment, such as Sāvakayana. Mahāyāna, conversely, maintains a strong focus on the Bodhisattva path, including the practice of taking mass Bodhisattva vows, which is absent in Theravāda. Both traditions emphasise compassion, but Mahāyāna emphasises the Bodhisattva's commitment to universal salvation. In practice, Theravāda's pāramī is more quantitative, focusing on accumulating virtues, while Mahāyāna's pāramitā is more qualitative, emphasising the transformation of mind and intention. Despite these differences, the fundamental idea remains consistent: pāramī/pāramitā represents the path taken by the Buddha in his previous lives as a Bodhisatta, with both traditions ultimately aiming for the cultivation of wisdom and compassion leading to enlightenment.</p> Tenzin Paksam, Phramaha Anon Anando, Phramaha Somphong Khunakaro Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/285791 Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0700 A Mindfulness-Based Development Process for Volunteer Work in Buddhist Healthcare: A Case Study of Siriwattago Medical Clinic under the Buddhamahametta Foundation https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/287782 <p>This study investigates the challenges faced by volunteers at the Siriwattago Medical Clinic (Acupuncture), operating under the Buddhamahametta Foundation, and examines the development and impact of a contemplative volunteer training program centred on mindfulness and loving-kindness (mettā) meditation. The research aimed to (1) identify key problems and obstacles in volunteer work, (2) develop a structured process using Buddhist contemplative practices to enhance peaceful well-being, and (3) evaluate the program’s effectiveness in improving volunteer experience and group dynamics. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 24 active volunteers, field observations during clinic operations and meditation sessions over four weeks, and post-program reflective feedback. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis.</p> <p>Findings revealed three main categories of challenges: (1) personal readiness and emotional well-being, including stress, fatigue, and lack of self-confidence; (2) interpersonal coordination and communication issues, such as misunderstandings, emotional reactivity, and weak collaborative engagement; and (3) insufficient operational training, with unclear role definitions and limited feedback systems. To address these, a three-phase volunteer development model was implemented: (1) awareness-building through mindfulness and loving-kindness workshops, (2) integration of contemplative practices into weekly volunteer routines, including guided meditation and group reflection, and (3) the establishment of communication guidelines rooted in compassion and respect.</p> <p>Post-intervention assessments indicated significant improvements in emotional regulation, interpersonal patience, and a strengthened sense of purpose among volunteers. Participants reported enhanced inner calm, empathy, and teamwork. The overall group dynamic shifted toward greater harmony and mutual support. This study concludes that the integration of Buddhist contemplative practices into volunteer development effectively fosters individual well-being and promotes a spiritually grounded, compassionate environment for service delivery.</p> Wanpatsorn Thanabadeejindapat, Phra Medhivajarapundit, Phramaha Weerasak Abhinandavedi Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/287782 Sat, 28 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0700 Promotion of Peaceful Co-existence Between Buddhists and Non-Buddhists in Rakhine State of Myanmar https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/279665 <p>This research aims to explore and promote peaceful co-existence between Buddhists and non-Buddhists in Rakhine State, Myanmar. The objectives are threefold: (1) to examine the underlying causes, consequences, and current challenges of the ongoing conflict; (2) to analyze relevant peacebuilding theories alongside Theravāda Buddhist doctrines that contribute to conflict resolution; and (3) to propose a practical framework for promoting sustainable peace in the region based on Buddhist peaceful means. This qualitative study draws upon a range of sources including the Tipiṭaka, commentaries, sub-commentaries, academic research, historical records, newspapers, and peace theory literature in both English and Pāli.</p> <p>The findings indicate that the root causes of conflict in Rakhine include hatred, generational vengeance, poverty, political manipulation, and the influence of external rhetoric (paratoghosa), often reinforced by unwise attention (ayonisomanasikāra). In contrast, Theravāda Buddhist principles such as deep listening, wise attention (yonisomanasikāra), the Four Bases of Sympathy (saṅgahavatthu), and the Six Principles of Cordiality (sārāṇīyadhamma) are vital for fostering mutual respect, understanding, and reconciliation. Findings reveal that unwise attention and external provocative speech (paratoghosa) fuel negative stereotypes and hinder empathetic engagement. Conversely, Buddhist practices of deep listening, right mindfulness, and wise attention cultivate the cognitive and emotional conditions necessary for de-escalation and reconciliation. The Four Bases of Sympathy, generosity, kind speech, beneficial conduct, and impartiality emerged as particularly potent for rebuilding trust and social cohesion. When these principles are combined with modern peacebuilding strategies (e.g., dialogue facilitation, community peace committees, restorative justice), they form a robust, context-sensitive approach to reconciliation.</p> <p>The study culminates in a proposed three-phase model, awareness and empathy building, collaborative problem solving, and institutionalisation of peace practices, designed to guide policymakers, religious leaders, and civil society actors in Rakhine State. By situating Buddhist ethical teachings within a broader peacebuilding framework, this research offers a holistic pathway toward lasting harmony and social resilience in one of Myanmar’s most conflict-affected regions.</p> Ven. Te Jein Da, Phrakhupalad Pannavaravuddhi, Sanu Mahatthanadull Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/279665 Wed, 02 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0700 The Interplay of Buddhist Mindfulness Practices: Fostering Harmonious Relationships in Couples https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/285282 <p>In today’s world, romantic relationships face numerous challenges, including communication breakdowns and the increasing impact of external stressors. While modern psychological interventions, particularly Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), often focus on behavioural changes, they can overlook the deeper intra- and interpersonal dynamics that are essential for relational health.</p> <p> This article suggests that Buddhist mindfulness practices can offer a valuable framework to address these gaps. It explores how Vipassanā (insight meditation), mettā (loving-kindness), karuṇā (compassion), and the ethical precepts (pañcaśīla) work together to promote positive interactions among couples. By integrating classical Buddhist philosophy with contemporary relational theories, the study demonstrates how these practices can cultivate focused attention, non-judgmental awareness, and emotional regulation. This, in turn, empowers individuals to move beyond maladaptive responses and fosters mutual empathy, enhances responsiveness to partners' needs, and helps de-escalate conflicts.</p> <p>At the core of this process are the ethical teachings of Buddhism, which emphasize non-harm, truthfulness, and mental discipline. These principles nurture relational environments built on trust and mutual respect. Emerging empirical evidence supports the effectiveness of these mindfulness practices, showing they can enhance emotional resilience, active listening, and collaborative problem-solving, all of which are critical for relationship satisfaction.</p> <p>Incorporating mindfulness into therapeutic settings complements traditional models by addressing both individual well-being and the dynamics of relationships, offering a comprehensive approach to enhancing intimacy. This article argues that using Buddhist mindfulness practices not only fills gaps in existing therapeutic approaches but also provides culturally adaptable tools for fostering closeness in a fragmented world. By redefining mindfulness as a relational practice rather than just an individual one, this research contributes to interdisciplinary discussions across psychology, theology, and sociology, advocating for evidence-based, ethically grounded interventions to help couples navigate the complexities</p> Piyarom Bunnag, PhraMedhivajarapundit, Narumon Jiwattanasuk Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College (JIBSC) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/285282 Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700 Cultivating Peace and Happiness for Children with Disabilities and Caregivers through Buddhist Practices https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/286942 <p>This study examines the potential of core Buddhist practices, mindfulness, loving-kindness, and compassion, to enhance the well-being of children with disabilities and their caregivers. Families of children with special needs frequently contend with heightened stress, social stigma, financial strain, and obstacles to education and health care. Integrating traditional Buddhist mental-health concepts with contemporary therapeutic models, specifically Kabat-Zinn’s Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Gilbert’s Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), and Neff’s self-compassion framework. The study reviews extant scholarship in Buddhist psychology and mindfulness interventions using a qualitative, literature-based approach. It conducts in-depth case analyses of community programs led by the Buddhamahametta Foundation. These case studies illustrate how structured meditation practices and community outreach initiatives translate theoretical principles into pragmatic support systems for children and caregivers.</p> <p>Findings indicate that regular mindfulness practice fosters greater emotional stability and reduces anxiety for caregivers and children alike. Loving-kindness meditation emerges as a powerful tool for deepening familial connection and alleviating caregiver burnout. Moreover, community-driven Buddhist projects demonstrate effective models for embedding these practices within educational, social, and health-care settings. The synthesis of Buddhist teachings with modern psychological paradigms offers a holistic framework that addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by these families.</p> <p> </p> Nattaya Waewsawat Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College (JIBSC) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/286942 Sun, 25 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700 From Buddhadhamma to Ecological Harmony: Buddhist Ethics As a Pathway to Sustainable Wellbeing https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/289008 <p>The intensifying global environmental dilemma, characterized by climate change, biodiversity erosion, and unsustainable resource depletion, the significant inadequacies of exclusively techno-economic solutions, which frequently neglect the ethical ramifications of human-nature interactions. This article posits that Buddhist ethics, anchored in the principles of Buddhadhamma, provides a profound framework for achieving ecological equilibrium and sustainable well-being by reconceptualizing environmental stewardship as an ethical obligation. By invoking fundamental tenets such as paṭiccasamuppāda (interdependent origination), ahiṃsā (non-violence), and karuṇā (compassion), this investigation situates Buddhist philosophy as a vital counter-narrative to anthropocentric models that prioritize economic expansion at the expense of ecological integrity.</p> <p>The evaluation illustrates how Buddhist ethics interpret ecological deterioration as a manifestation of dukkha (suffering), which arises from greed (lobha) and ignorance (avijjā). Furthermore, it recommends interventions such as mindful consumption, compassionate conservation, and institutionalized ecological care. Buddhadhamma reconceptualizes prosperity as harmony with the natural, advocating for transformative changes in educational paradigms, policy frameworks, and community practices. By emphasizing interdependence rather than exploitation, Buddhist ethics offer a comprehensive blueprint for addressing global environmental crises. Nevertheless, realizing widespread influence requires collaboration among spiritual leaders, policymakers, and scientists to incorporate these ethical paradigms into secular sustainability agendas.</p> Phrakhrusamu Woravit Phasuko (Dutsadeephuttipun), Maechee Kulaporn Kaewwilai Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/289008 Fri, 30 May 2025 00:00:00 +0700 The Practical Ways of Good Action and Good Rebirth According to the Cycle of Life (Bhava-saṁsāra) in Buddhism https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/279735 <p>This article delves into the profound Buddhist doctrines of kamma (volitional action) and rebirth, exploring their intricate relationship within the overarching framework of bhava-saṃsāra, the cycle of existence. It begins by dissecting bhava-saṃsāra, highlighting its characteristics of impermanence (anicca), suffering (dukkha), and non-self (anattā), and elucidating how it is perpetuated by ignorance (avijjā) and craving (taṇhā) through the lens of Dependent Origination (Paṭiccasamuppāda). The discussion clarifies common misconceptions, particularly regarding the notion of a permanent, transmigrating self, emphasizing the conditioned nature of consciousness and the five aggregates. The paper then meticulously examines the concept of kamma, underscoring the pivotal role of intention (cetanā) in shaping ethical actions and their multifaceted consequences across various realms of existence. It further explores the nuances of rebirth, including the conditioning factors for human birth and the impact of wholesome actions on the quality of future lives. Drawing upon traditional Pāli canonical insights and contemporary Theravāda interpretations, the article presents a theoretically informed model of ethical action. This model integrates the cultivation of wholesome intentions, engagement in virtuous physical, verbal, and mental actions, and the development of wisdom (paññā). The article argues that a deep understanding and diligent application of these principles not only facilitate beneficial rebirths but also yield significant practical benefits in the present life, including enhanced mental clarity, emotional resilience, increased compassion, and a profound sense of ethical agency. This article underscores how these teachings provide a comprehensive framework for navigating existence and progressing towards the ultimate liberation of nibbāna.</p> Nandiya, Phramaha Somphong Khunakaro, Sanu Mahatthanadull Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/279735 Tue, 03 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0700 Settling the Mind, Embracing the Journey: Mindfulness as a Tool for Thai Migrant Emotional Well-being https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/288598 <p>Migration involves more than mere geographical relocation; it encompasses significant emotional and psychological challenges. Thai migrants residing in Australia often grapple with cultural disorientation, social seclusion, and an increased susceptibility to stress and mood disorders. This study, informed by Buddhist-influenced mindfulness practices deeply embedded in the cultural and spiritual fabric of many Thais, examines the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in fostering emotional resilience, self-compassion, and enduring well-being. Through qualitative interviews and pre- and post-intervention assessments of a culturally tailored eight-week mindfulness program, we analyse how moment-to-moment awareness and nonjudgmental acceptance assist participants in managing cross-cultural stressors, regulating emotions, and cultivating a sense of belonging. Results demonstrate that consistent mindfulness practice significantly alleviates symptoms of anxiety and depression (p &lt; .01), improves self-compassion metrics by 25%, and facilitates more effective social integration. Furthermore, participants articulate that mindfulness acts as a conduit between their Thai heritage and Australian existence, allowing them to respect their spiritual traditions while confidently engaging with novel environments. This paper concludes that mindfulness functions not merely as a transient coping mechanism but as a sustainable, lifelong asset for emotional well-being. By integrating mindfulness into daily practices and community engagements, Thai migrants can foster inner stability and cultural continuity, thereby enriching both individual experiences and the multicultural society at large.</p> Nalinee Maklum Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/288598 Fri, 13 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0700 Compassion as the Foundation of Humanistic Ethics: A Study of Martha C. Nussbaum’s Thought https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/289269 <p>This article investigates compassion as the epistemic and normative cornerstone of humanistic ethics by critically engaging with Martha C. Nussbaum’s philosophical corpus. Rejecting the long-standing dichotomy that casts emotions as irrational forces, Nussbaum reconceptualises compassion as a cognitively enriched sentiment integral to moral deliberation and public justice. The study unfolds in three parts: first, it delineates the philosophical and psychological underpinnings of compassion in Nussbaum’s Capabilities Approach; second, it mounts a critique of rationalist moral theories that marginalise affective experience. In the third section, we enter into comparative dialogue with Theravāda Buddhist ethics, focusing on karunā (compassion) as articulated in canonical Pāli texts and elaborated by contemporary scholars. We show that karunā, far from being a passive sentiment, is cultivated through systematic practices of mindfulness, ethical habituation, and insight into suffering. By juxtaposing Western and Buddhist perspectives, the article illuminates convergent principles, such as non‐attachment, empathetic imagination, and communal responsibility, that underpin both traditions’ understanding of compassion as a transformative moral faculty. Engaging these Western and Buddhist perspectives in concert, the study argues that compassion can serve as a transformative force for realising justice, human dignity, and flourishing in our globalised world.</p> Notnargorn Thongputtamon, Pravech Vathakaew Copyright (c) 2025 The Journal of International Buddhist Studies College https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ibsc/article/view/289269 Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0700