A Study of the Structure and Cultural Significance of Shan Proverbs

บทคัดย่อ

This study examines the structure, characteristics, and cultural significance of Shan proverbs, known locally as Kwam Kab Tuk, used in Shan State, Myanmar. Proverbs are concise metaphorical expressions that convey moral teachings, societal values, and cultural identity. Influenced by Theravada Buddhism, Shan proverbs have been orally transmitted across generations, reflecting the wisdom and worldview of the Shan people. The research employs qualitative methods, including documentary analysis of 120 proverbs and in-depth interviews with 10 Shan scholars, monks, and community elders.

Findings reveal that the most common structural form of Shan proverbs consists of two lines, each containing five syllables, though variations in syllable count and line structure also exist. Shan proverbs serve educational, ethical, and social functions, promoting virtues such as patience, honesty, and social harmony, while also preserving the Shan language and cultural heritage. Findings further indicate that Shan proverbs embody Buddhist moral reasoning and serve as tools of social cohesion, reinforcing interpersonal respect and collective responsibility within the community.

Analytically, the study demonstrates that the structural regularity and thematic diversity of Shan proverbs mirror the balanced and moral orientation of Shan society, rooted in Buddhist philosophy. These insights reveal that Shan proverbs are not only linguistic artifacts but also dynamic expressions of cultural resilience and adaptation. Findings further indicate that Shan proverbs embody Buddhist moral reasoning and serve as tools of social cohesion, reinforcing interpersonal respect and collective responsibility within the community, representing the living moral wisdom of the Shan people.

The research highlights challenges posed by modernization and language shift, emphasizing the need for preservation through documentation, education, and community engagement. Ultimately, Shan proverbs continue to shape identity and values in contemporary Shan society, serving as a bridge between traditional wisdom and modern life.