Functions of the Folklore “The Procession of Mai - Khum Bodhi Tree” at Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong, Chom Thong, Chiang Mai

Abstract

This research aimed to study the functions of the folklore “The Procession of Mai - Khum Bodhi Tree,” which are long pieces of wood that locals bring to crutch the Bodhi tree at Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong, Chom Thong, Chiang Mai. For data analysis, the conceptual framework of “Four Functions of Folklore” proposed by William Bascom (1954) was applied. The research results revealed the functions of folklore, ranging from the most to the least, which were to educate people on unity, carefulness, responsibility for work, etc. (10 times), to validate culture by justifying its rituals and institutions (5 times), to entertain people and assist them in escaping the monotony of their lives (4 times), and to maintain conformity to accepted norms of behavior (3 times). The functions of the folklore “the Procession of Mai - Khum Bodhi Tree” are thus tools for shaping groups of people to live together peacefully.