The Model of Ethic Development for Dhamma Practice Centers in Nonthaburi Province Based on Theravada Buddhist Philosophy

Abstract

This research article aims to: 1) To study the ethical development according to Theravada Buddhist Philosophy, 2) To study concepts and theories of ethical development of the Dhamma Practice Centers in Nonthaburi, 3) To integrate the ethical development of the Dhamma Practice Centers in Nonthaburi according to Theravada Buddhist Philosophy 4) To present the body of knowledge regarding ethical development models of the Dhamma practice centers in Nonthaburi Province based on Theravada Buddhist Philosophy. This dissertation is qualitative research using in-depth interviews with 15 experts. The data were analyzed using content analysis and presented descriptively.The findings of the research revealed that: 1) The development of ethics according to Theravada Buddhist philosophy employs the principles of the Threefold Training (Trisikkhā) and the Four Developments (Bhāvanā) serve as fundamental approaches to cultivating morality, concentration, and wisdom. Key Buddhist principles, such as the Five Precepts (Pañcasīla), the Five Ennobling Virtues (Pañcadhamma), and the Ten Wholesome Courses of Action (Kusala-kammapatha), are applied to enhance ethical values in daily life. These methods can be adapted within Dhamma Practice Centers to align with current social contexts. 2) Dhamma Practice Centers play a crucial role in propagating Buddhism and promoting ethical values through training in Morality (sīla), Concentration (samādhi), and Wisdom (paññā). Additionally, they create an environment conducive to the moral development of dhamma practitioners. 3) The integration of ethical development consists of four aspects: Physical Development (kāya-bhāvanā), which includes physical activities and environmental factors. Moral Discipline (sīla-bhāvanā), focusing on ethical conduct and discipline. Mental Cultivation (citta-bhāvanā), emphasizing concentration and meditation. And Wisdom Development (paññā-bhāvanā), which enhances knowledge and understanding of Buddhist principles. This process fosters moral advancement in practitioners and enables them to apply Buddhist teachings practically daily.The study presented a structured ethical development model known as the “MIND Model” which comprises (M) Moral Foundation, (I) Integrative Process, (N) Nurturing Activities, and (D) Ethical Development Goals at individual, community, and societal levels. This model serves as a guideline for enhancing Dhamma Practice Centers to cultivate sustainable moral and ethical values.