A Study on The Approaches to Preserving and Promoting Buddhist Sermons by Monks in Phrae Province

ศึกษาแนวทางการอนุรักษ์และส่งเสริมการเทศน์ของพระสงฆ์ในจังหวัดแพร่

Abstract

 This research article has three objectives: 1) to study the forms of Buddhist Sermons (desanā) found in Buddhist scriptures, 2) to study the forms of Buddhist Sermons of monks in Phrae Province, and 3) to study the guidelines for preserving and promoting monastic Buddhist Sermons in Phrae Province. The study employs a qualitative research methodology, utilizing documentary research together with additional field data obtained through in-depth interviews with 18 key informants.

The research findings are as follows:

1. There are four forms of Buddhist Sermons found in Buddhist scriptures: (1) dialogic preaching (sākacchā), (2) descriptive or expository preaching, (3) question-and-answer preaching, and (4) prescriptive preaching. The Buddha taught the Dharma according to Tisikkhā (Threefold Training)—sīla (morality), samādhi (concentration), and paññā (wisdom). The attainment of enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of rebirth (saṃsāra) involves self-discipline and intellectual development leading to enlightenment and liberation from the domination of ignorance (avijjā).
2. The forms of Buddhist Sermons of monks in Phrae Province can be categorized into three forms: (1) Mahāvatara preaching, (2) Mahājāta preaching, and (3) Pāṭhakatthā preaching. Among these, Mahāvatara preaching is the most popular, followed by Mahājāta preaching based on the Vessantara Jātaka, and finally the lecture-style Pāṭhakatthā.
3. Guidelines for preserving and promoting monastic Buddhist Sermons in Phrae province reveal that preservation must be based on the Dhamma and Vinaya (Buddhist scriptures and monastic rules), using Buddhist principles as the basis for sermons. Preserving the traditional way of preaching based on local wisdom, with participation from the monastic community of Mueang Phrae District, Phrae Province. To promote Buddhist Sermons, it is important to encourage the collection of data, compilation of Buddhist Sermons techniques, and adaptation of formats to suit modern society. This will make Buddhist teachings more accessible to listeners and easier to put into practice.