THE ROLE OF MONKS IN THE FUNERAL OF DECEASED PERSONS WHO INFECTED WITH COVID-19 IN UBON RATCHATHANI PROVINCE

Abstract

The funeral management for many people who had died with infected COVID-19 was complicated. This situation had effect on the tasks and health conditions of monks and it had also influence on the related persons. Funeral ceremonies had been reduced in some parts, but still follow the local cultural tradition and in accordance with preventive measures the spread of COVID-19 infection. The objectives of the qualitative research were 1) to study the role of monks in the funeral of the deceased persons from COVID-19 infection in Ubon Ratchathani Province and 2) to study the suggestion of monks for management the cremation model of deceased persons who died from COVID-19 infection. The Key Information in this study were the monks and staffs who had responsibility in the funeral arrangements for the gone persons from COVID-19 infection. Sample was 30 persons selected through purposive sampling. Data collection was used by in-depth interview consist of questionnaire and guidelines for observing funeral activities for COVID-19 victims. The data were analyzed using content analysis. The research findings as follows; on the role of monks had 2 issues (1) The participation of monks in activities and funeral ceremonies for infected people with COVID-19 composed of 1) the main responsibility for managed the funeral deceased persons from infection COVID-19. 2) Accepting policies and co-designing the management of cremation ceremonies 3) Being a coordinator of the ten directions and (2) Being a spiritual leader even though they faced in the COVID-19 epidemic crisis situation. They applied the principles of morality to the funeral ceremony appropriately and they had ability to motivate people to follow Buddhist practices. Including, they have high a leadership. Another subject, the counsel of monks for a new way to management the cremation model of deceased persons who died from COVID-19 infection as follow;  1) reducing the process of funeral ceremonies. and establishing a system for safe funeral ceremonies from infection 2) preparing for funeral services for both the site and those involved 3) using the Four Dharma Viharn principles 4) having regular consultation meetings with relevant agencies 5) organizing the welfare system, 6) building morale for monks and related persons, 7) practicing the skills of using anti-infection equipment, and 8) should be establish a fund to help the monks and colleagues. This study useful for preparing monks for a new way of cremation that keeps monks safe from infection. The relevant agencies should continue to support the monks as spiritual leaders of Buddhism.