A Study Of The Role In Educational Welfare Of Phrakhrusripariyatvarabhorn (Thongsuk Cittasāro)

Abstract

               This research aims to: 1) study the concept of educational welfare in Buddhism,    2) explore the concept of educational welfare among monks, and 3) examine the rules of educational welfare as applied by Phrakhrusripariyatvarabhorn (Thongsuk Cittasāro). This research employs qualitative research methods, including document analysis and field studies, with data collected from in-depth interviews and presents an analytical and descriptive account of the findings.

The results of the study are as follows:

1) In Buddhism, the concept of welfare education is defined by the Buddha's requirement for monks to engage in one of two practices: Gantha-dhura (the burden of study) and Vipassanā-dhura (the burden of insight development). Monks are to learn directly from the Buddha and his disciples (Sāvaka) through oral transmission (Mukhapātha), a process termed Gantha-dhura. Once acquired, this knowledge is then applied in practice, known as Vipassana-dhura. This educational framework emphasizes the relationship between students and teachers, particularly between Upajjhaya (preceptor) and Saddhivihārika (co-resident), as well as between Ācariya (instructor) and Antevāsika (apprentice). This mentorship is deemed crucial, especially during a monk's first five rainy seasons, a period when a Navakabhikkhu (neophyte) is expected to cultivate a strong bond with their mentors.

2) The concept of monastic welfare education focuses on offering opportunities to the disadvantaged and to those who lack the financial means to support their education, enabling them to continue their studies. This includes providing various forms of knowledge and training to individuals. Monasteries and monks conduct such educational initiatives in alignment with government policies, ensuring that education is accessible to all, especially those in need.

3) The educational welfare rules established by Phrakhrusripariyatvarabhorn (Thongsuk Cittasāro) encompass five key dimensions: 1) The development of welfare education founded on the principle of educational equality, 2) The creation of education funds and provision of resources such as teaching materials and lunch for summer ordination camps, alongside community Dhamma projects, 3) The management of social welfare education with temples serving as central hubs for educational welfare, 4) The administration of welfare education through scholarships for children and youth, and 5) The promotion of welfare education aimed at enhancing the quality of life, which includes physical health care, practices like walking and meditation, mental development through observing the five precepts and chanting, community improvement by abstaining from vices and drugs, and intellectual growth by applying Buddhist principles to lifestyle choices, enabling the community to address various issues intelligently.