Integrating the Values of the San Ton Ta Tradition that Influence The Way of Life of People in Surin Province

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1) study the way of life of people in Surin Province; 2) examine the values of the San Ton Ta tradition; 3) integrate the values of the San Ton Ta tradition that influence the way of life of the people; and 4) generate knowledge regarding such value integration. This study employed a qualitative research approach using in-depth interviews with 20 key informants. The data were analyzed and synthesized using descriptive analysis.
The findings revealed that:
1. The way of life of people in Surin Province is closely related to agriculture, particularly rice farming, elephant raising, and silk weaving, together with a strong adherence to local traditions and culture, especially the San Ton Ta tradition.
2. The San Ton Ta tradition represents gratitude toward ancestors and adherence to religious virtues, while also promoting unity and relationships within families and communities, as well as preserving local cultural identity.
3. The integration of the values of the San Ton Ta tradition influences the way of life by fostering moral awareness, including compassion, sacrifice, and generosity, and strengthening social relationships and community cohesion.
4. The body of knowledge derived from this study indicates that the integration of values gratitude, unity, sacrifice, and compassion can be explained through the “ESCS Model,” which consists of four dimensions: ethics, social, cultural, and spiritual, all of which are interconnected in shaping the way of life of the people.