Values and Spiritual Well-being from Sharing of Dharma Medical Volunteers

Abstract

This research is a qualitative study with the objectives to study the value of sharing among Dhamma Way volunteer doctors, the well-being derived from sharing among Dhamma Way volunteer doctors, and to present a model of sharing among Dhamma Way volunteer doctors that creates value and well-being. The data were collected using in-depth interviews from 15 key informants who are Dhamma Way volunteer doctors from all over the country.

The research findings show that: The value of sharing arises from the behavior of sacrificing one’s own possessions, both in tangible and intangible forms, through the pure spirit of sharing without expecting anything in return, under the concept of “to give and think not to take anything from anyone.” It is a virtue that immediately brings goodness to the giver, as the Dhamma Way volunteer doctors firmly believe in the law of good and bad karma that results from one’s actions. The result of sharing with a pure heart by the Dhamma Way volunteer doctors, which is a wholesome and meritorious act of goodness, brings about good things and leads to well-being in various aspects as follows: 1) Physical well-being, 2) Mental well-being, 3) Social well-being, and 4) Spiritual well-being. The research found that the sharing style of the Dhamma Way volunteer doctors is unique and different from the general giving in society. It can be concluded as a sharing model practiced collectively according to the Seven Dhamma-based Virtuous Practices (Boonyawut 7) as follows: 1) Vegetarian food, 2) Chemical-free agriculture, 3) Boonniyom communication, 4) Boonniyom commerce (Dhamma Way market), 5) Boonniyom education (Children’s School, Wichararam Institute), 6) Boonniyom health (Health camp), and 7) Boonniyom politics (transcendental politics)