LUANGPOR THAN CHAI BUDDHA STATUE OF PHRA THAT DOI KHAM TEMPLE: A PHENOMENON OF FAITH IN THAI SOCIAL CONTEXT

Abstract

Objectives of this research article were: 1. To explain the phenomenon of faith in the Luangpor Than Chai Buddha Statue of Phra That Doi Kham Monastery; and 2. To analyse the role and dynamics of folklore that drove contemporary Thai society. The researchers conducted in-depth interviews using questionnaires, which were approved by the ethics committee, until data saturation was reached. Then a descriptive analysis in folklore was employed.

The study’s findings were summarized as follows: 1. The phenomenon of faith in Luangpor Than Chai Buddha Statue of Phra That Doi Kham Monastery manifested in two ways: as a local phenomenon of faith and as a result of contemporary media influence; and 2. The role and influence of folklore that drove contemporary Thai society, the Luangpor Than Chai Buddha Statue has served as an identity for the people of the Lanna region and Phra That Doi Kham Monastery that built confidence among members of the society and drove Thai society, including the economy, society, education, tourism, and the promotion of Buddhism.