DEVABHŨMI : THE PROCESS OF CREATING MUTUAL SUPPORT IN SOCIETY DEVABHŨMI : THE PROCESS OF CREATING MUTUAL SUPPORT IN SOCIETY

Abstract

This research aimed to: (1) study the belief in Devabhūmi (heavenly realms) and its influence on mutual support in Thai society; (2) develop processes to promote mutual support in Thai society based on the belief in Devabhūmi; and (3) present models of mutual support in Thai society grounded in this belief. A mixed methods research design was employed, combining documentary analysis from the Tipiṭaka, commentaries, sub-commentaries, related academic works, and articles; qualitative data collection through in-depth interviews with experts, scholars, and Buddhist monks in Ecclesiastical Region 10; and quantitative data collection using questionnaires and focus group discussions. The study revealed that the belief in Devabhūmi  the six heavenly realms within the Kāma-loka according to Theravāda Buddhism — exerts profound influence on the Thai worldview and social behavior. Thai people widely believe that virtuous actions, such as having faith in the Triple Gem, respecting the law of karma, observing moral precepts, and practicing the ten courses of wholesome action (kusala-kammapatha), will result in favorable rebirth in the heavenly realms and lead to happiness in future existences.

The key findings of the research are threefold: (1) The belief in Devabhūmi serves as a psychological motivator that strengthens individuals’ sense of social responsibility, as people trust that their good deeds will bear fruit both in this life and the next; (2) the patterns of mutual support in Thai society encompass daily acts of kindness, organizing public benefit activities, donating wealth and labor for communal causes, engaging in public welfare, and sacrificing for the greater good during times of crisis such as natural disasters or epidemics; (3) the development of promotional processes should explicitly integrate Buddhist ethical principles, particularly by communicating the importance of key doctrines such as the three bases of meritorious action (puññakiriyā-vatthu), the four bases of social harmony (saṅgahavatthu), and the four household virtues (gharāvāsa-dhamma) to raise awareness and foster pro-social attitudes and behaviors.

The study’s main recommendation is that Buddhist organizations, educational institutions, and related agencies should collaborate to design training programs, public communication campaigns, and participatory workshops aimed at instilling an understanding of the belief in Devabhūmi and its relationship to mutual support. By creatively transmitting these values to younger generations, such initiatives would lay a crucial foundation for strengthening social cohesion, enhancing social capital, and guiding Thai society toward stable and sustainable development at both the community and national levels.