The Adaptation of Monks’ Roles to Thai Social Changes in the 21st Century

Abstract

             This academic article aims to study the adaptation of monks’ roles to Thai social changes in the 21st century, a period characterized byrapid and complex transformations in economic, social, technological, and cultural dimensions. These changes have significantly affected people’s ways of life, values, and patterns of social relationships. The study employs documentary research, drawing upon relevant academic literature and previous studies, and analyzes the data through a Buddhist integrative approach in conjunction with social science frameworks. The findings reveal that Buddhist monks are increasingly required to transform their roles from traditional religious practices toward becoming moral leaders, community leaders, and key contributors to the strengthening of social capital. Furthermore, monks play an important role in promoting ethics, moral values, and community resilience by applying Buddhist principles as a foundational framework for driving sustainable social development in accordance with the contemporary context of Thai society.