Buddhism for Social Engagement: a Case Study of Phra Phisansasanakich (Yuen Khantiphalo)

Abstract

A Buddhist park of Wat Khaosala Atulla Thanacharo has abundant forest conditions. Surin Province, by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, has promoted the park to be an ecological and cultural tourist attraction. There is a model of footprint of the Buddha that indicates the civilization of ancient Khmer. The Fine Arts Department has registered the Nangkoi cliff locating in the park as Pah Phra or cliff of monks. These are all the results of forest resource conservation of Buddhist monks.  Buddhism for social engagement of Wat Khaosala Atulla Thanacharo can, thus, be concluded in 2 statuses. Firstly, Buddhist principle status includes: interpretation of Buddhist principles that covers all social aspects by applying Buddha Dhamma principles for benefiting most people in society; and by adjusting the pattern of Buddha Dhamma principles to be more related to social phenomenon; and Secondly, the operational status includes the implementation of activities for benefiting society as well as mental development. The pattern of Buddhist propagation is not only through Dhamma preaching and meditation practice but also through: social welfare for solving social problems of all generations; and social movement in various aspects including conservation and restoration of natural resources, ecology, environment as well as all creatures.