The of Study of the Administration of Lao Sangha in Hadxaifong District, Vientiane Capital

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) study the overall administration of the Lao Sangha; 2) investigate the administration of the Lao Sangha in Hadxaifong District, Vientiane Capital; and 3) analyze the administration of the Lao Sangha in Hadxaifong District, Vientiane Capital. This qualitative study utilized documentary research, drawing information from books, textbooks, and relevant research papers, with the collected data being analyzed and summarized to conclude the study. The research yielded the following findings: The administration of the Lao Sangha is structured hierarchically, with the Central Buddhist Fellowship Organization of Lao PDR serving as the supreme body under the supervision of the government, channeled through the Lao Front for National Construction. Administration is divided into national (central), provincial, district, and temple levels, adhering to three core principles: the principles of Dhamma-Vinaya, integration with state policies, and community participation. The Lao Sangha's administration in Hadxaifong District encompasses 91 temples and approximately 450 monks and novices. It is organized into four key areas: monastic governance, monastic education, dissemination of ethics and meditation practice, and public Welfare. The analysis of the Hadxaifong District Sangha administration demonstrated a strong commitment to development in all four areas: Monastic Governance. This area is strengthened by highly qualified leaders and robust community support. Monastic Education: This focuses on developing monks and novices with both religious and secular knowledge through the establishment of Pali schools, general education management, provision of funding and teachers, media development, and foreign language training. Dissemination of Ethics and Meditation Practice: This is achieved through sermons, meditation practices, and traditional and online media. Dissemination centers in temples produce media, train monastic preachers, and emphasize reaching out to youth. Public Welfare involves effectively developing temples as community centers, considering functionality and aesthetic appeal, and conserving historical sites and traditional art.