An Analysis of Sappāya Conditions Conducive to Meditation Practitioners at Wat Mai Yai Paen Temple, Bangkok

Abstract

This study consisted of the following objectives: 1) to examine the problems, context, and needs of meditation practitioners at Wat Mai Yai Paen in Bangkok, 2) to explore modern theories alongside the concept of sappāya (supportive conditions) in relation to meditation practitioners at Wat Mai Yai Paen; and 3) to propose the guidelines for identifying sappāya conditions conducive to meditation practitioners at Wat Mai Yai Paen. The research method involved in-depth interviews with 20 key informants. The obtained qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.

The research findings indicate the following: 1) Wat Mai Yai Paen is currently facing several problems that negatively affect the overall atmosphere for meditation practice and hinder community engagement. As a result, there are broader psychological and social consequences observed within the community. The ultimate goal is to transform Wat Mai Yai Paen into a “Nibbāna Sathan Dhamma” (Nibbāna Dhamma Center), which will be a tranquil, green, and sustainable space that nurtures both mental well-being and social harmony; 2) The effective development of temples or meditation centers should be grounded in four key modern theoretical perspectives: community participation, the development of the temple as a community center, sustainable environmental development, and the design of meditation spaces; and 3) The analysis of Wat Mai Yai Paen should be conducted comprehensively in order to assess the temple's suitability based on the seven sappāya (supportive) conditions, with an emphasis on cleanliness, tranquility, safety, availability of essential amenities, and active community participation. Continuous evaluation and improvement are essential to ensure that the temple genuinely serves as a conducive and sustainable space for meditation practice. This research introduces new knowledge under the concept “Sappāya as a Pathway to a Nibbāna Sathan Dhamma and Peaceful Living at Wat Mai Yai Paen.” It focuses on the integrated application of the Seven Sappāya (supportive conditions), the Four Noble Truths (Ariyasacca), and the “6S Temple Development Framework” (Wat 6 S) in the development of Wat Mai Yai Paen as a meditation center conducive to the attainment of the path (magga), its fruition (phala), and ultimately Nibbāna.