Islamic and Buddhist Leaders’ influences of Thinking Associated with the Relationship between Muslims and Buddhists in the Three Southern Border Provinces of Thailand

Abstract

          The objectives of this research was to examine Islamic and Buddhist leaders’ influences of thinking associated with the relationship between Muslims and Buddhists in the three Southern border provinces of Thailand.  Data for this qualitative research were collected from related literature and from the field through observation and in-depth interviews with the target groups who were Buddhist monks 20 persons, Islamic leaders 17 persons. Ordinary Buddhist and Muslims, and local academic totaling 68 persons. The data were validated before being analyzed and concluded using descriptive analysis. The study found that Islamic and Buddhist leaders’influences of thinking associated with the relationship between Muslims and Buddhists in the three Southern border provinces of Thailand were as follows.  1) Compassion for others without religious discrimination, and giving objects, physical help and support, and encouragement without religious discrimination to express your wish for people of all religions to live without suffering. 2) Social equality based on different religions by supporting Buddhists and Muslims to access their religions equally, and compare teachings of the two religions to show similarities to reflect the same direction of life goals.  3) Unity to empower peace and strength for benefits of Buddhists and Muslims to do activities together.  4) Development of knowledge and awareness to reduce negative attitudes towards each other; correct religious knowledge must be reinforced; awareness of changes; and realization of being fellow Thai citizens.  5) The unrest situation did not stem from religious conflict, thus, religious leaders must not think of using religion as a tool for separation but for thinking that we can be different but not divided.