LOOKING BACK AT THE SANGHA GOVERNING ACT, R.S. 121, AND THE IDEA OF USING IT AS A TOOL TO CREATE AN ABSOLUT MONARCHY

Abstract

After the Sangha Regulations during the reign of King Rama I, the Siamese state (King) enacted many more specific laws regarding the Sangha. But these laws mainly focus on controlling the misconduct of monks and novices. They do not have anything to do with the organization of the Sangha governance structure. Until the reign of King Chulalongkorn, Rama 5 of the Chakri Dynasty. Which was an era of important religious reformation Therefore, the Sangha Governance Act, R.S. 121, was enacted. The content of this law It is not related to the details of the rules and regulations of the monks. But it's a matter of positioning. As well as the authority and responsibility in governing the diocese of Thai Buddhism in a hierarchical manner. There is a clear chain of command similar to a bureaucracy.

It can be said that The Sangha Governance Act, R.S. 121, is a law that specifies the governance of the Buddhist Chakra. To be organized and organized (Official) first version. In this regard, the Sangha Act in the later period Each of them has content regarding the structure of government as well. As for the rules used to control and supervise the conduct of monks Novices must do so in accordance with the Dhamma and Vinaya. It appears in the form of secondary laws. issued by virtue of the said Act which may be enacted as a decree or order of the Sangha Supreme Council as specified in that Act.