An Analytical Study of Buddhist Beliefs and Morals in Tao Tung See (Four Guardian Gods) Ritual in Muang Phrae District, Phrae Province

ศึกษาวิเคราะห์ความเชื่อและคติธรรมที่ปรากฏในพิธีขึ้นท้าวทั้งสี่ ในอำเภอเมืองแพร่ จังหวัดแพร่

Abstract

The objective of this study aims to 1) study the history of Tao Tung See (four guardian gods) ritual; 2) explore beliefs and morals of Tao Tung See (four guardian gods) ritual; and 3) analyze beliefs and morals of Tao Tung See (four guardian gods) ritual in Mueang Phrae district, Phrae province. The documentary research method was used to collect additional data from 15 key informants through in-depth interviews during a field study.

          The findings revealed that

1. Tao Tung See (four guardian gods) ritual is based on animistic belief intertwined with Buddhist history in terms of Lokapālas, the guardians who protect the world’s four directions from harmful influences. This ritual reflects an integration of Buddhist, Brahmanic, and animistic beliefs to ensure protection, security, and auspiciousness for people living in Mueang Phrae district.
2. The beliefs in Tao Tung See ritual of people living in Mueang Phrae district involve inviting Lokapālas for sacredness, requesting auspicious blessings, and showing respect to Lokapālas to invite divine protection. This ritual reflects Buddhist morals: Puññakiriyavatthu (bases of meritorious action), giving, ethical behavior, mental development, gratitude, and awareness of making merit.
3. Tao Tung See ritual is consistent with the following Buddhist principles: Four Kinds of Saddhā, focusing on the belief in karma and following moral principles for safety and auspiciousness; Tilakkhaṇa (the three marks of existence), placing the importance on understanding the truth of life and embracing impermanence; and the principles of merit and sin that encourage individuals to do good deeds: giving, observing precepts, and practicing meditation by avoiding malicious acts and adhering to Dharma in conducting ritual.