A Study of Leadership of the Pali School of Phrathammarachanuwat (Suthat Varathatsi Pali IX)

Abstract

The research article consisted of the following objectives: 1) to investigate the administration conditions of the Pali department at Phra Pariyattidhamma School under WatMolilokayaram; 2) to explore the leadership of the Pali department at PhraPariyattidhamma School by PhraThammarachanuwat (Sutthas Voradassī, Pali IX); and 3) to take lessons learned from the leadership of the Pali department at Phra Pariyattidhamma School in Thai society. The study employed a qualitative research method by exploring documents and conducting in-depth interviews with 9 key informants. The obtained data were analyzed by content and context analysis.

According to the findings of the study, the administration of the Pali department at PhraPariyattidhamma School under Wat Molilokayaram follows the same direction, emphasizing the sacrifice of self-happiness for the development of human resources, with the leader serving as a role model. This leads to a distinct leadership that has faith and happiness in the management of personnel development, with the following four components: (1) Good administrators, (2) Good teachers, (3) Good students, and (4) Good supporters. This results in the success of PhraPariyattidhamma School at WatMolilokayaram. The leadership of the Pali department of PhraPariyattidhamma School includes the mission of PhraThammarachanuwat, with the following five leadership characteristics: (1) Consistent in practice and morality,     (2) Resolute mind and faith in the development of monks and novices in the study of the Pali, (3) Exemplary through regular action, especially in behavior and profession, as well as in governing followers, (4) Strategies for handling problems in an intelligent way in order to develop religious heirs, (5) Patience in the face of obstacles, sacrifice, and happiness for the common good. This aligns with Pāpaṇika-dhamma (qualities of a good leader), a Buddhist leadership model, which comprise: (1) Cakkhumā or shrewd, (2) Vidhūro or capable of administation, and (3) Nissayasampanno or having good supporters.