A Study of the Role of Propagating Vipassanā Meditation of Phrakhru Bhāwanāvihāradham Vi. (Leak Chandasilo)

Abstract

             The purposes of this research were: 1) to study the principles and methods of Vipassanā meditation in Buddhism, 2) to study the principles and methods of Vipassanā meditation of Phrakhru Bhāwanāvihāradham Vi. (Leak Chandasilo); and 3) to study the role of Phrakhru Bhāwanāvihāradham Vi. (Leak Chandasilo). It is qualitative research. By researching documents and collecting field data There is a population and sample of 25 people/person and summarized with analytical description.
             The research results found that:
             1. Principles and methods of Vipassanā meditation in Buddhism found that Vipassanā meditation focuses on the contemplation of the mind, relying on awareness of different phenomena. The principles and methods of Samatha meditation are divided into four parts: 1) kāyānupassanā satipaṭṭhāna: being aware of bodily sensations and actions. 2) vedanupassanā satipaṭṭhāna: being aware of the feelings that arise. 3) cittānupassanā satipaṭṭhāna: being aware of mental states or thoughts. and 4) Dhammānupassanā satipaṭṭhāna: contemplation of the mental objects that arise through the six sense faculties: eye, ear, nose, tongue, body, and mind.
             2. Principles and methods of Vipassanā meditation taught by Phrakhru Bhāwanāvihāradham Vi. (Leak Chandasilo) found that he teaches following to the four foundations of mindfulness (satipaṭṭhāna) and Visuddhimagga (Path of Purification). He advises students to cultivate mindfulness by observing the present moment and focuses on watching the impermanence and suffering in all phenomena, particularly in bodily movements. His teachings emphasize the recognition that form and mind are impermanent, not-self, and leads to the release of attachment. Most of the meditation practice occurs in solitary retreat settings, rather than in group settings. The teachings also include periodic emotional check-ins to address mental states, allowing practitioners to gain deeper insight into the nature of form and mind and to reduce attachment.
            3. The role of Phrakhru Bhāwanāvihāradham Vi. (Leak Chandasilo) in the propagation of Vipassanā Meditation found that 1) Qualities: he is a kind and skilled mentor, which directly contributes to the spiritual progress of his students. He is also a capable Dharma teacher, able to explain the teachings in great detail to alleviate doubts and guide his students effectively. His personal example serves as a model for his followers. 2) Teaching Methods: his teaching style emphasizes lectures, which make the material easier to understand and more suitable for meditation practice. He uses simple, clear language that is accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds, and he encourages an open atmosphere where practitioners can ask questions freely. 3) Teaching Media: he adapts his teachings to contemporary circumstances, using digital platforms such as YouTube, Line, Facebook, and the temple’s website to disseminate teachings and reach a wider audience. and 4) Benefits of the Teachings: the teachings have had a significant positive impact on practitioners. Many report greater self-awareness, which helps them adjust better to family life. Professionally, they find improved focus and work efficiency. In society, they develop a stronger sense of duty and unity, contributing to greater peace and harmony.