The Integration of The Temples Management According to Theravada Buddhist Philosophy in Yasothon Province

Abstract

The purposes of this research were: 1) to study the concept of temple management theory in Thai society, 2) to examine the principles of Theravāda Buddhist philosophy regarding temple management in Yasothon Province, and 3) to integrate temple management practices with the principles of Theravāda Buddhist philosophy in Yasothon Province. This qualitative research was conducted through the study of the Tripiṭaka and academic documents on Buddhism. Key informants included 15 individuals comprising organizational leaders, Buddhist leaders, community leaders, and members of the general public. The research instrument used was in-depth interviews, and the findings were presented using analytical descriptive methods.
The results revealed the following:
1. The concept of temple management theory in Thai society encompasses five key functions: planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling.
2. The principles of Theravāda Buddhist philosophy applied to temple management in Yasothon Province include three core principles: 1) Sappāya – managing the environment, buildings, personnel, and activities in accordance with Dhamma to promote spiritual and community development; 2) Paññāniya-dhamma – the presence of vision and insight in administration; 3) Sāraṇīya-dhamma – fostering cooperation and unity within the Sangha and the wider community.
3. The integration of temple administration based on Theravāda Buddhist philosophy emphasizes the Paññāniya-dhamma principle, involving visionary leadership and administrative capability, along with effective coordination. Successful temple administration also depends on the Sappāya principle—managing the physical and human environment—and the application of the Sāraṇīya-dhamma principle to cultivate harmony and collaboration within the Sangha and the community.