The Development of Urban Wisdom under Bowon Framework by Buddhist Peaceful Means of Wat Sarod Community, Bangkok Metropolis

Abstract

The research article pursued the following objectives: 1) to examine the context, problems, needs, as well as concepts and theories about the development of community wisdom under the Bowon framework by Buddhist peaceful means, at Wat Sarod community; 2) to examine the Buddhadhamma that is conducive to the model for the development of community wisdom under the Bowon framework by Buddhist peaceful means, at Wat Sarod community; and 3) to develop and present the model for the development of community wisdom under the Bowon framework by Buddhist peaceful means, at Wat Sarod community. The study employed an action research based on Ariyasacca (the Four Noble Truths). The qualitative method was used through field study. The tools used were in-depth interview, seminar, focus group discussion, and both participant and non-participant observation. Key informants included 39 key informants, consisting of 13 monks, 25 leaders of Wat Sarod community, and 1 representative of government sector.

From the study, the following results were found: 1) Problems of community wisdom at Wat Sarod include people in the community lack interest in community wisdom, the failure of community leaders to pass on community wisdom to the new generations, changes in technology and consumption, a lack of public relations and coordination, a lack of experience and sacrifice, and the lack of identity in community wisdom. 2) The Buddhadhamma conducive to the development of community wisdom at Wat Sarod community include Ariyasacca (the four noble truths) and Aparihāniyadhamma (seven conditions of welfare). This involves meeting, sharing views and brainstorming, defining goals, promoting and encouraging collaboration, sacrificing, and implementing the work plan. 3) The development of urban wisdom under Bowon framework by Buddhist peaceful means at Wat Sarod community in Bangkok has resulted in a "KHAI model" (meaning egg) with the following four components (1) The first egg "K" refers to Knowledge, (2) The second egg "H" refers to Highlight, (3) The third egg "A" refers to Activity, and (4) The fourth egg "I" refers to Impression. This development has led to a new body of knowledge in four areas (1) Learning resources, (2) Highlighting identity, (3) Solidarity, and (4) Happiness, including the ability to eat and live well.