Gratitude to the Buddha: The Case Study of Buddhamahametta Foundation

Abstract

This paper aims to study the virtue of gratitude towards the Buddha among meditation practitioners at the Buddhamahametta Foundation. The study employed a qualitative research approach, and involved 10 key informants who had a minimum of three years of experience in mindfulness-based practice at the Foundation. The informants were selected from a diverse range of professional backgrounds, including hospitality, real estate, marketing, and commodity products. The In-depth interviews were conducted with each informant and it was recorded. A narrative approach was used to contextualize their explanations. The information collected from the interviews was analyzed and summarised into key issues. All key informants signed the consent form to provide their information publicly.

The study found that expressing gratitude towards the Buddha has a positive impact on the behaviour and psychological well-being. Specifically, the informants reported that they can let go any suffering easier, be less upset and angry, be more diligent, and no longer blame others. Furthermore, the appreciation of the Buddha was associated with their greater happiness and a heightened awareness of the value of life. After the study was conducted, there is beneficial to further study for example, the Buddhamahametta Foundation could consider incorporating concepts of gratitude towards the Buddha into their self-improvement programs, including in mindfulness-based course.