Ordination: Beliefs in Nibbana to Contemporary Transformations in Lanna Society

การบวช : ความเชื่อจากนิพพานสู่การเปลี่ยนแปลงสมัยนิยมของสังคมล้านนา

Abstract

This academic article aims to study Buddhist ordination, with a particular focus on the context of Lanna society, a region where beliefs and culture have been profoundly intertwined with religion from the past to the present. Traditionally, ordination in Thai society is rooted in the pursuit of liberation from suffering, the expression of gratitude to one's parents, and the upholding of customs and traditions. Concurrently, ordination reflects the intricate relationship between religion, culture, and social structure. In Lanna, specifically, ordination holds significance both spiritually and as a ritual that fosters community solidarity.

However, the context of ordination has evolved over time. The rise of technology, consumerism, and the commercialization of Buddhism have impacted the understanding, objectives, and behaviors of those entering monkhood, as well as the practices of the clergy. This article's analysis is structured around three key themes: (1) the concept of ordination from past to present, including its meaning, purpose, and historical context; (2) the socio-cultural context of ordination in Lanna society, particularly its adaptation to modern consumer culture; and (3) the transformation of the concept of ordination over time, including deviations from the original principles of Buddhism. The sociological theories of Émile Durkheim and Max Weber are employed to analyze these structural and social power shifts.

The article posits that while the forms and motivations for ordination in contemporary Lanna society have changed, its spiritual, cultural, and social values remain critically important. It continues to serve as a ritual that promotes social discipline and as a vital mechanism for the sustainable preservation of Buddhism. The article concludes with a recommendation for Buddhists to recognize and comprehend the authentic principles of their faith in order to safeguard its essence amidst the currents of social change.