THE ROLE OF MONKS: AMID THE CRISIS OF THAI SOCIETY

Abstract

Monks are important roles and have a close relationship with communities and society. Monks provide knowledge and practical guidelines that are beneficial to improving the quality of life for people in the community by encouraging the use of Buddhist principles in life in order to improve the quality of life. Crisis in Thai society, political problems, economic problems, the shutdown of the manufacturing and service sectors have caused great job losses in Thai society. Unemployment and poverty COVID-19 outbreak that the global society and Thai society must face threats of public health security problems, PM 2.5 dust problems, natural disasters that expand in a wide area and it is a problem that greatly affected the lives of rural farmers. The role of monks’ propagation must be aware of the changes and phenomena of society. Actual role shown in the country's policy under the Sangha Act B.E. 2505 and (No.4) B.E. 2561, promoting the propagation of Buddhist principles for the development of mind and wisdom have an obligation to participate in the society according to the main mission. Public welfare must be a real body of knowledge as a base of action, such as treating diseases by using herbs. cure for drug addicts. This kind of role may not be the direct role of the monks. but an acceptable role in society and not contrary to the Dharma and Discipline.  Leadership in community development based on the strengths of Thai monks with outstanding leadership image. Preserving cultural traditions must adhere to the framework of Dharma and Discipline as the main principle and can be integrated in accordance with the era.