DEVELOPMENT OF PRECEPTOR’S POTENTIAL IN TAKING CARE OF CO-RESIDENT

Abstract

The purposes of this article were to study the meaning and qualification of Buddhist preceptor, to study the role and duty of Buddhist preceptor in taking care of co-resident, and to propose the development of preceptor’s potential in taking care of co-resident. Content analysis was used for data analysis from related research and literature. Results showed that preceptor has played important role of selecting layman and ordain them into Buddhism. Four important roles were shown as a main duty for preceptors which consisted of educational encouragement, support basic needed objects for monkhood, always give positive advises, and look after when being sickness. Three aspects were suggested for development of preceptor’s potential in taking care of co-resident. Using Kalyànamitta-dhamma to develop the preceptor’s work was added for the first suggestion. Secondly, preceptor should strict and be considered while selecting co-resident. Lastly, both Sangha Supreme Council of Thailand and National Office of Buddhism should assess and follow up preceptor’s work continually.