The Design of Buddhist Teachings via TikTok Media for Soul Suffering Alleviation in the Contemporary World

Abstract

This article aims to investigate guidelines for designing Buddhist teachings through TikTok to alleviate mental suffering, based on a comprehensive review of documents, academic literature, and relevant research. The findings reveal that the design of teachings for psychological healing can be implemented through three primary approaches within a discursive framework: 1. The Utilization of Buddhist Texts via Media for Psychological Alleviation: This approach emphasizes the presentation of Dhamma principles related to daily life and mental distress. Key elements include mindfulness practice, which significantly reduces stress and enhances happiness, and the use of accessible media formats such as graphics and animations. 2. The Design of Discursive Practices in Teachings: This focus lies on communicating through simple, semi-formal language and presenting Dhamma content that is concise and direct. This style is tailored to the temporal constraints of TikTok videos—such as topics on "letting go" or mindfulness—while incorporating specific hashtags to facilitate searchability. 3. The Design of Socio-Cultural Practices: This approach emphasizes the application of Dhamma principles to enhance social conduct, such as promoting public consciousness. Specifically, the application of the Four Sublime States (Brahmavihara IV) and the Four Bases of Sympathy (Sangahavatthu IV) is encouraged to foster happiness through giving and altruism, which can be manifested in volunteer activities. In conclusion, the dissemination of Dhamma via TikTok represents an adaptation of spiritual practice to contemporary lifestyles. It serves as an authentically effective tool for the psychological care and healing of individuals in the modern era.