BELIEFS AND VALUES REFLECTED IN THE NAMES OF JOK WEAVING PATTERNS OF LAO KHRANG - LAO WIANG IN UTHAI THANI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article entitled “Beliefs and Values Reflected in the Names of Lao Khrang-Lao Wiang Jok Textile Patterns in Uthai Thani Province” aims to classify semantic groups and analyze the beliefs and values of ethnic groups through the names of jok textile patterns. This study is qualitative research employing documentary analysis, with sources selected based on specified criteria. The data were drawn from key sources, including documents on the wisdom of Lao Khrang jok textiles and a thesis entitled A Study of Lao Wiang Jok Skirts for the Development of the Ban Phathang Traditional Textile Center. The study covers a total of 46 textile pattern names as representative data. The researcher analyzed the data using the concept of ethnosemantics together with semantic classification based on the approach of Nida, through processes of lexical segmentation, meaning identification, and comparison with universal semantic categories in order to access the cognitive system from an emic perspective. Data were also validated through documentary triangulation and expert verification. The findings indicate that the names of jok textile patterns can be classified into five semantic groups. The most frequently occurring group is natural entities (34.94%), followed by objects and constructions (30.12%), descriptive terms (15.66%), animals and animal products (13.25%), and supernatural entities (6.02%), respectively. In terms of beliefs and values, the findings reflect the worldview in four main aspects: 1) valuing nature, 2) the relationship between ways of life and surrounding elements, 3) valuing clarity, and 4) belief in the supernatural, particularly the symbol of the “Naga.” This research demonstrates that the names of textile patterns function as a linguistic mechanism reflecting the cognitive system and indigenous wisdom that sustain the cultural identity of the community.