The Potential Development of Volunteer Upāsikā by Buddhist Peaceful Methods of Wat Sarod, Bangkok

Abstract

The objectives of this research article are 1) to analyze context, problems, and needs for the potential development of volunteer upāsikā at Wat Sarod, as well as concepts and theories of potential development according to modern science; 2) to analyze the Buddhist peaceful means conducive to the potential development of volunteer upāsikā under Bowon framework of Wat Sarod, Bangkok; and 3) to develop and present the potential development of volunteer upāsikā by Buddhist peaceful means of Wat Sarod, Bangkok. The study employed a qualitative research method by using an action research based on Ariyasacca (the Four Noble Truths). The tools used were a questionnaire, in-depth interview, seminar, focus group discussion, and both participant and non-participant observation. Key informants included      28 persons comprising 6 monks, 1 maechee, and 21 upāsikā (female devotees).

From the study, the following results were found: 1) Wat Sarod is the center of the drive promoting harmony and reconciliation through the application of Buddhist teachings. The project includes the “The Five-Precept Observing Village Project” which focuses on building a strong network of Bowon (villages, temples, schools) to promote the prosperity of the temples through various activities. Despite an increase in upāsikā participation in meditation, the temple still lacks volunteer upāsikā with knowledge and skills to help with tasks that benefit society. The temple therefore would like to develop the potential of volunteer upāsikā in order to save costs of hiring workers to perform tasks within the temple. 2) The Buddhadhamma favorable to promote the potential development of volunteer upāsikā is as follows: On sīla (precepts), determining the way of life and organizing the rules that are used together in society; On samādhi (concentration), by being responsible and examining policies and every step of projects with a firmed mind; On paññā (wisdom), by performing duties, considering all-round approaches, and taking initiatives to work together as a team, in order to achieve mutual satisfaction in activities based on the peaceful ways. 3) The potential development of volunteer upāsikā has resulted in a model called “Photi” with the following five components: (1) “P” stands for Practice Plan, which is an attempt to help as a volunteer; (2) “H” stands for Hospitality, i.e., the willingness to offer hospitality and support, to sacrifice time, and not to expect anything in return; (3) “O” stands for Organization, where volunteers can join forces to help out from time to time according to a clearly predetermined schedule, leading to the intended successful results; (4) “T” stands for Trust vorthy, which is making oneself worthy of trust, conducting oneself morally, and earning respect from others; (5) “I” stands for identity, which includes outstanding and impressive results that lead to an adequate increase in the number of volunteer upāsikā, and having a memorable symbol of volunteering, which ultimately leads to sustainable peace in the community.