The Journal of Thai Lanna Wisdom

The Role of Language in Social Development: Analysis from linguistic studies From 1980 to 2021

Makawan Poomcharean — 2026-09-10

This article presents the findings of a study that explores the role of language in social development through an analysis of 10 academic publications on the relationship between language and development in the context of Thai society. The study reveals that language contributes to social development in four key ways:1) by constructing social consciousness through shaping perceptions of reality, framing social issues, forming shared identities, and influencing attitudes and beliefs; 2) by shaping social structures through defining social hierarchies, legitimizing power and authority, establishing gender roles, and either fostering social cohesion or creating social division; 3) by shaping worldviews through the transmission of social norms and values that guide individual and collective perspectives; and 4) by shaping thought through structuring cognitive processes, enabling symbolic expression, and facilitating the transmission of cultural knowledge. This study concludes that the analysis of the role of language in development highlights the significant influence of language on social development.

Identity-Affirming Recreation and Safe Spaces: A 3C-Based Framework for Advancing the Well-being of Older LGBTQ+ Individuals in Thai Society

Tachapon Tongterm — 2026-09-10

Thailand is undergoing a critical transformation in both its demographic structure and gender diversity policies. As the aging society becomes increasingly evident alongside the legalization of marriage equality, older adults who identify as LGBTQ+ have emerged as an important population group requiring safe, inclusive spaces and meaningful recreational opportunities that affirm their identities and promote holistic well-being. This article aims to 1) analyze the current situation and the role of recreation in enhancing the holistic well-being of older LGBTQ+ adults in Thailand; 2) examine the needs and appropriate forms of recreational activities for this group; 3) explore the key factors and strategic approaches to developing safe recreational spaces that meet specific needs within the context of Thai society and the marriage equality law; and 4) propose development strategies and policy recommendations to improve access to inclusive recreational opportunities. Drawing on a synthesis of scholarly literature, research articles, and contextual analyses of Thai society, the findings reveal that older LGBTQ+ adults continue to face vulnerabilities across physical, mental, and social dimensions, largely due to stigma, limited structural support, and persistent cultural barriers. Recreation, however, plays a vital role in strengthening holistic well-being through safe, open, and identity-affirming activities. This article introduces the 3C Framework, which comprises Care, Connection, and Confidence, as a conceptual model newly synthesized by the author to guide the systematic design of recreational spaces and activities tailored to the lived experiences of this group. The analysis highlights that older LGBTQ+ individuals seek inclusive environments that embrace diversity, ensure psychological and physical safety, and enable meaningful participation in community-based design processes. Finally, the article presents four key policy recommendations:

1) promoting integrated and sustained governmental support; 2) addressing inequality and expanding access to recreational activities; 3) integrating health, identity, and creative economy dimensions; and 4) ensuring long-term sustainability through community participation and national-level mechanisms. Recreation is therefore not merely a form of entertainment but a powerful social instrument for enhancing well-being, affirming identity, and advancing equity in contemporary Thai society.

Musicology: Musical Changes Developments in Thought and Methodology in the Study of Human and Musical Culture by Professor Dr. Chalermsak Pikulsri

Chitsanupong Intarakaew — 2026-09-10

Chalermsak Pikulsri is an eminent scholar who has played a pioneering role in the development of musicology education in Thailand. His scholarly works have expanded the scope of music studies beyond the traditional framework of musical thought, resulting in academic contributions that extend far beyond the study of music itself. Employing a wide range of research methodologies, including musicology and music history, his work has generated knowledge that contributes to the promotion of a more equitable and just society rather than focusing solely on aesthetic or idealized conceptions of music.

Chalermsak Pikulsri's background as a Thai classical musician, his more than ten years of study in India, and his deep interest in history, religion, politics, economics, and educational administration have profoundly shaped his scholarly perspective. By integrating these experiences with musicological approaches, he has produced nuanced and multidimensional analyses of the relationships among music, the economy, society, and musical culture in rural communities in Thailand, the Mekong River Basin, and India.

Studying the Wooden Buddha Image Lanna to the Creation of Contemporary Buddhist Art

Nutchayaphat Srisam-angwong — 2026-09-10

Studying the wooden Buddha image to the creation of contemporary buddhist artis. This research used a mixed-method research methodology, consisting of qualitative research and creative art research.. The objectives are to study the beliefs and benefits of wooden panels, to explore and analyze the styles of wooden panels in Chiang Rai and Lamphun, and to create contemporary Buddhist art, wooden panels for communicating Dhamma. The research results found that the term wooden panel refers to a wooden panel decorated with a large number of Buddha images in an orderly manner. It consists of sections of wooden panels that are creatively designed in various shapes, used to represent the residence of the Buddha and the part of the Buddha image that was created to represent all the Buddhas, the creation of the wooden Buddha image is directly related to the belief in the merit of the Lanna people. In the areas of Chiang Rai and Lamphun provinces, 30 wooden panels were found, Wooden Buddha panels consist of 7 types: 1) castle-shaped arch, 2) arch shape, 3) lotus petal shape, 4) Decorative archway, 5) Naga archway,6) arch frame of the Buddha image, and 7) other shapes. The Buddha image decorated with wooden panels has 3 postures: Samadhi, Mara-Vijaya, and Reclining. They are made of tin, baked clay, cement, sap, and wood. The decorative patterns use the lone body, floral patterns, lotus patterns, and animal patterns. The techniques used for decoration include gilding, gold leafing, wood carving, glass decoration, and metal embossing. In addition, inscriptions were found on two wooden panels. The process of creating works includes creating sketches of works and creating works such as wooden panels, Buddha amulets and floor panels. Size 6.1 x 6.3 meters. For the communication of Dhamma according to the concepts of kappa, samsara and parami. This piece of work will be installed behind the principal Buddha image in the ordination hall of Huai Phai Temple, Khampaen Subdistrict, Khao Kho District, Phetchabun Province.

Creation of Lanna wooden Buddha panels

Sirisak Apisakmontree — 2026-09-10

The research on the creation of Lanna wooden Buddha panels used a mixed-method research method, consisting of documentary research, action research, and creative research. The objectives are: 1) to study the knowledge about Lanna wooden panels according to Buddhist beliefs; 2) to analyze the styles and symbols of Lanna wooden panels; 3) to create and evaluate wooden panels.

The results of the study of 300 wooden panels found that the oldest was built in 2194 B.E. and the newest was built in 2566 B.E. The wooden panel framed arch style was most commonly found, followed by the ancient arch and the Wiman arch style. The least common styles were the Praram arch, the Ruean Kaeo arch and the Mondop arch styles. The symbols on the wooden panels include the Buddha amulets, which represent the Lord Buddha. The wooden panels used to decorate the Buddha amulets are like a perfumed chamber. The decoration of many Buddha amulets on the wooden panels represents the many Buddhas and the merits they have accumulated and the floral patterns, the royal decorations, the Chulamani pagoda, are a symbol of worship of the Buddha, and the zodiac patterns are a symbol of dedication of merit. In addition, the wooden panel also represents the support of Buddhism for 5,000 years, the rebirth of Lord Sri Ariya Maitreya, the three kinds of happiness, with Nirvana as the ultimate goal, and the extension of life. The creation of all 10 panels is the result of the synthesis of knowledge through the collaboration of people in the community. The evaluation results are at a very good level.

The Role of the Family Institution as Reflected in Proverbs of Traditional Lanna Society

Wilawun Wisanuvekin — 2026-09-10

This article aims to analyze the role of the family institution as the primary mechanism of social organization and socialization in traditional Lanna society through the lens of proverbs. An analysis of proverbs collected from oral tradition reveals the role of the Lanna family in four key areas: 1) instilling social hierarchy and gratitude, 2) ensuring family stability and functioning as a social safety net, 3) establishing the institution of marriage and regulating sexual conduct, and 4) transmitting moral and ethical values. This study demonstrates that the Lanna family institution employed proverbs as a powerful cultural tool to define social statuses and roles, instill discipline, and shape aspirations among its members. Proverbs not only reflect worldviews of Lanna society, but also function as a mechanism through which the family reproduces and transmits social structures across generations. Thereby maintaining the stability of the family and kinship system, which lies at the heart of Lanna society

Development of a Community-Based Cultural Tourism Model Using the Heritage Handprint Approach in San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai Province : A Case Study of 10 Mhong Hlong Phaya community

Palinda Ramingwong — 2026-09-10

This research aims to: 1) examine the tourism potential in the “10 Mhong Hlong Phaya” community area; 2) develop a Heritage Handprint cultural tourism model through community participation; and 3) disseminate the tourism model to the public. The study employed Participatory Action Research (PAR) using a qualitative research approach. Data were collected through Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), in-depth interviews, and A-I-C (Appreciation–Influence–Control) participatory workshops. The research focused on community tourism resources to facilitate the creation of community-based cultural tourism activities. The findings revealed that while some communities had already established cultural tourism activities, others had never organized such initiatives. Nevertheless, all ten communities demonstrate the potential to develop tourism activities. The A-I-C participatory workshops with key informants further indicated that all communities required support in knowledge development, budget allocation, and public transportation system management to accommodate tourists effectively. Based on these findings, the study developed a Heritage Handprint cultural tourism model that emphasizes the unique identity of each mhong, community participation, and the preservation of local wisdom. The project also implemented pilot tourism activities in four communities, and produced promotional materials to raise public awareness and promote cultural tourism within the “10 Mhong Hlong Phaya” area.