ROLES OF BUDDHISM IN LIANGSAENG TRADITION, NA PHAEK VILLAGE, SAPHANGTHONG DISTRICT, SAVANNAKHET PROVINCE, PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS

Abstract

          The purposes of this qualitative research were 1. to study the history of  Liangsaeng tradition, 2. To investigate the beliefs about  Liangsaeng tradition, and 3) to explore the Buddhist roles in Liangsaeng tradition, Na Phaek Village, Atsaphangthong district, Savannakhet province, People's Democratic Republic of Laos. The qualitative data were collected from documents and the interviews of 20 key informants.

         The findings were as follows:

          The history of the Liangsaeng tradition originated from respect for the sacred ghosts, spirits, and gods, that were bound to the villagers of Na Paek who believed in ancestral spirits (ghost spirits) or ghosts that used to have moral conduct or make merits in the previous life. When they die, they will be born as a deity becoming the sacred with superpowers over all human beings. They can bring about good or bad things. They also play an important role in protecting their descendants who have good conducts to live happily. The beliefs in Liangsaeng tradition originated from the desire of the public to have a good life without hindrances, and a warm family. Moreover, it was also the preservation of the forest in the Phi Saeng Forest area. Besides, the villagers of Na Phaek still believed that respecting Phi Saeng also brought about good and fruitful agriculture.

          In terms of Buddhist roles in Liangsaeng tradition and reconciling with other beliefs, the tradition was influenced by Brahmanism-Hinduism with belief in sacred things or gods and ancestor spirits and the ritual related to those beliefs. As for the role of participation in Buddhist rituals appearing in Liangsaeng tradition, it is the offering of alms by Na Phaek villagers to dedicate merits to the spirits of their grandparents or living beings. The villagers come together to organize the event with joy and give alms at the temple. Liangsaeng tradition at Ban Na Phaek was outstanding and different from other places.  There were events twice a year, the first time was held on the third day of the waxing moon of the third lunar month to inform the Phi Saengs (or ghosts of grandparents). It was the season to prepare for rice planting. The second time was held on the third day of the waxing moon of the sixth lunar month to inform that it was time to plant rice and make a wish for good harvest results and prosperity.