A Model of Practicing Puññakiriyā-vatthu for Strengthening the Stability of Saddhamma

Abstract

This research aimed to (1) study the concepts of practicing Puññakiriyā-vatthu in Buddhism; (2) synthesize the concepts and principles of Puññakiriyā-vatthu practice that contribute to the stability of Saddhamma; and (3) propose a model of practicing Puññakiriyā-vatthu for strengthening the stability of Saddhamma that is appropriate for contemporary society. This study employed a qualitative research methodology. Data were collected from the Tipiṭaka, commentaries, academic publications, and related research works, together with in-depth interviews, including Buddhist scholars, Vipassanā meditation teachers, Buddhist administrators, and lay Buddhists actively engaged in promoting Buddhist activities. The data were analyzed through content analysis and conceptual synthesis. The findings revealed that Puññakiriyā-vatthu constitutes the Buddhist principle of meritorious conduct. In the Tipiṭaka, it appears as the three bases of meritorious action, namely Dānamaya, Sīlamaya, and Bhāvanāmaya. The commentarial tradition later expanded these into ten bases of meritorious action, namely Dānamaya, Sīlamaya, Bhāvanāmaya, Apacāyanamaya, Veyyāvaccamaya, Pattidānamaya, Pattānumodanāmaya, Dhammassavanamaya, Dhammadesanāmaya, and Diṭṭhujukamma. These ten forms comprehensively promote individual development, social harmony, and the continuation of Buddhism. The new body of knowledge generated by this research is the interpretation of the ten Puññakiriyā-vatthu as a systematic framework for developing the Fourfold Buddhist Community in order to strengthen the stability of Saddhamma. The researcher developed a model called the Merit-Based Saddhamma Stability Cycle Model (MBSSCM), which consists of four components. The first component, Input, comprises the ten Puññakiriyā-vatthu, with Diṭṭhujukamma serving as the central core. The second component, Process, consists of Yoniso Manasikāra (wise reflection), the Four Foundations of Mindfulness (Satipaṭṭhāna 4), and Diṭṭhujukamma, functioning as internal mechanisms. The third component, Output, is the stability of Saddhamma. The fourth component, Feedback, refers to the cyclical process whereby the benefits gained from meritorious practice generate faith, leading to deeper practice and thereby strengthening the stability of Saddhamma. This outcome, in turn, reinforces faith and encourages further engagement in meritorious actions.