The Influences of Prasat Chom Phra Towards the Lifestyle of Buddhist Communities in Chom Phra Sub-district, Chom Phra District, Surin Province

Abstract

In the study on “The influence of Prasat Chom Phra on the way of life of Buddhists in Chom Phra Subdistrict, Chom Phra District, Surin Province”, the researcher has 3 objectives: (1) to study the history of Prasat Chom Phra, Chom Phra Subdistrict, Chom Phra District, Surin Province; (2) To study the way of life of Buddhists in Chom Phra Subdistrict, Chom Phra District, Surin Province, and (3) To analyze the influence of Chom Phra Castle on the way of life of Buddhists in Chom Phra Subdistrict, Chom Phra District, Surin Province. It is qualitative research in the field by going to the field to collect data, conduct in-depth interviews, and analyze the data using descriptive methods. The results of the study found that Prasat Chom Phra is located in Chom Phra Subdistrict, Chom Phra District, Surin Province. It is a building called Arokayasala, made of laterite and sandstone, facing east. It consists of five main parts: the main castle, the library, the glass wall, the gopura (gate arch) and the pond, which are unique characteristics of the Arokayasala as found elsewhere. Important antiquities found These include the head of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, Vajrasattva statues, sandstone Naga Buddhas, and sandstone inscriptions, believed to have been created around the 18th Buddhist century. The way of life of Buddhists in Chom Phra Subdistrict, Chom Phra District, Surin Province is an old commercial and residential community in the area of Thesaban Road 8 and Phatthananon Road, located near the historical site of Prasat Hin Chom Phra. It is a commercial and residential area of the Chom Phra community. The people in the old area work in trading goods and services in various fields, which is a unique characteristic of the Buddhist community in Chom Phra Subdistrict. The community's activities are held every year. These include the traditions of worshiping the castle, making merit by offering alms to the monks, and stirring Khao Thib, etc. There are also various activities such as social welfare, economics, and culture. Analysis of the influence of Prasat Chom Phra on the way of life of Buddhists in Chom Phra Subdistrict, Chom Phra District, Surin Province found that (1) Buddhist influence: Prasat Chom Phra was built in accordance with the principles of Buddhism (Mahayana). It helps promote Buddhist teachings in the areas of treating physical and mental illnesses. (2) Aesthetic influence: Prasat Chom Phra is a work of material creation. It is beautiful in terms of architecture and has important images that create a sense of comfort, relaxation and happiness. (3) Social influence creates unity in society. (4) Economic influence, supporting historical tourism; and (5) Cultural influence, conveying beliefs and traditions towards the castle.