Study of the factors interesting the youths in dhamma practice of Buddhadhamma Kammatthana groups

Abstract

This research studied factors inspiring youth interest in dhamma practice of Buddha-dhamma kammaṭṭhāna groups at Thammasat, Chulalongkorn, Kasetsart, Roi Et Rajabhat, and Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat universities and suggest further approaches. Results were that influential factors included: 1) Belief in Buddhist doctrine, cause and effect, karma and its consequences, dhamma practice to achieve mindfulness, concentration, wisdom, and  freedom from suffering in the five aggregates towards nirvana. 2) Kalyāṇa-mittatā (admirable friendship) including family as role models initiating dhamma practice since childhood, including making merit, attending temple, and listening to dhamma. Monks are also role models, demonstrating approaches for paying homage to forest monk disciples of Phra Ajarn Mun Bhuridatta Thera. 3) Dhamma practice activities such as the Dhamma Traveling Project, Meditation Camp, Forest Temple Monk Ordination.

            Guidelines for inspiring youth interest in Dhamma practice include:              1). Developing leadership through knowledge as a role model. 2). Boosting public relations for the activities of Buddha-dhamma kammaṭṭhāna groups to spread public awareness of activities. 3). Adjusting organizing activities to cohere with contemporary society to attract more public attention and involvement.                 4). Developing teaching methods to spread dhamma practice, such as inviting monks and teachers with different techniques and teaching methods focused on the principle of dhamma practice to practice mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom.

Keywords: Youth, Dhamma practice, Buddha-dhamma kammaṭṭhāna groups