The Strategy Development of the Buddhist Ways of Buddhist Followers: A Case Study of Pa Aka Nyaw Tribe in Chiang Mai

Abstract

The objectives of this research were: (1) to study the current conditions and factors influencing the development of Buddhist methods for promoting religious heirs; (2) to construct strategies for developing Buddhist methods to enhance religious heirs; and (3) to evaluate these strategies. A mixed-methods approach was employed. The sample consisted of 140 Karen ethnic group members in Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai Province, selected by purposive sampling. Research instruments included interviews and questionnaires, with a reliability coefficient of 0.97. The questionnaire on Buddhist method development for propagation comprised 20 items, with item discrimination  values ranging from .609 to .829 and an overall reliability coefficient of 0.96. Data were analyzed using percentage, mean, standard deviation, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, multiple regression analysis (MRA), and descriptive analysis. The research results found that: 1. The overall current conditions and factors affecting the development of Buddhist propagation methods for religious heirs were at a high level. The highest mean score was in dāna (generosity), followed by sīla (morality), while the lowest was in bhāvanā (mental cultivation). 2. Four development strategies were formulated: (1) engaging experts, community leaders, Karen representatives, and Buddhist monks to jointly identify solutions; (2) creating attractive highlights in activities; (3) fostering motivation and supporting community  participation based on the Four Saṅgahavatthu (principles of service); and (4) providing financial and facility support to raise awareness of the importance of religious heirs. 3. The evaluation of the strategies indicated a high level overall, with the highest mean in accuracy, followed by appropriateness and feasibility, while the lowest was in applicability.