EFFECTIVENESS OF BUDDHISM DISSEMINATION OF MONKS AT BAN BHO SUB-DISTRICT, BANG PA-IN DISTRICT IN PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA PROVINCE

Abstract

Objectives of this research article were: 1. examine the level of Buddhist propagation by monks in Ban Pho Subdistrict, Bang Pa-in District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province; 2. investigate the factors affecting the effectiveness of Buddhist propagation by monks in Ban Pho Subdistrict, Bang Pa-in District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province; and 3. propose guidelines for enhancing the effectiveness of Buddhist propagation in the study area. This study employed a mixed-methods research design. The quantitative research involved a sample of 275 respondents, and data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using statistical software. The qualitative research was conducted through in-depth interviews with 10 key informants and analyzed using descriptive content analysis, with the findings presented in narrative form.

Findings were as follows: 1. the overall level of Buddhist propagation, Buddhist teaching methods, and effectiveness of Buddhist propagation among monks in Ban Pho Subdistrict, Bang Pa-in District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province was at a moderate level in all dimensions; 2. factors related to Buddhist propagation and Buddhist teaching methods jointly influenced the effectiveness of Buddhist propagation at the statistical significance level of 0.01. All components of Buddhist propagation factors jointly explained 41.40% of the variance in effectiveness, while factors related to Buddhist teaching methods explained 34.40% of the variance. Therefore, the research hypotheses were accepted; and 3. regarding the effectiveness of Buddhist propagation, most monks demonstrated strong knowledge and understanding of the Tripitaka and the principles of the Buddhist disciplinary code. In terms of teaching methods, monks were able to explain Buddhist doctrines clearly and concretely, employing teaching approaches that fostered faith and motivated individuals to practice the Dhamma independently. Regarding overall effectiveness, Buddhist propagation contributed maximally to individuals, families, communities, and society.