Nation-building Thai Sangha according to cultural mandates under the government of Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram (1938 – 1944)

Abstract

The objective of this article was to study the role of Thai Sangha in supporting the implementation of building a nation according to cultural mandates policy under the government of Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram. The results indicated that when Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsongkram assumed the position of Prime Minister, he announced a nation-building policy with the goal of developing the country. The government of Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram has carried out work on building a nation by issuing “cultural mandates” to be used as the principles of nation-building operations. The government has asked Thai Sangha for cooperation to participate in national building activities by preaching and training the people according to cultural mandates. The implementation of Thai Sangha sermons began in 1939 in many parts of the country. To train people in some provinces, Thai Sangha cooperated with government officials to increase their efficiency. In the period 1939–1941, Buddhist sermons used to train people appeared on civic duty, occupation, cooperation with government in nation building, implementation of various cultural mandates, unity, mutual assistance, etc. In 1942, Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram was appointed Prime Minister again. During this period, there was the Great East Asia War which was part of World War II and affected people's preaching according to cultural mandates. Buddhist sermons used to train people during wartime situations appear on the theme of unity, strength, courage, and occupation for people to follow government policies and make people believe the leader is Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsongkram, Prime Minister. The content of the Buddhist sermon is consistent with the 14 principles of "VEERADHARMA" issued by the government.