Drums in Theravada Buddhism

Abstract

          This article studies the history, concepts and beliefs about drums in Theravada Buddhism to the beliefs of the Laos people. which drums in Buddhism use sound as a symbolic medium. Drumming is an important activity in the Buddhist era. There are many types of drum in Tripitaka and Buddha era. Classified by size and unique name and is also a musical instrument in the paradise world. Drumming in Buddhism has a role associated with the acts of Bodhisattva, the story of the former Buddha, the past life of the Buddha and the disciples. Drumming is a form of antagonism to clergy and is often related to the discipline and discipline of monks. The drum is used as a symbol of victory announcement, used as a preaching symbol, was brought to be a metaphor for the teachings of Buddhism, relate to the concept of virtue of charity and magicians in Buddhism. The importance of drums is mentioned in many Jataka texts. Also related to the event of Buddhist nirvana and several episodes of the Lord Buddha's expulsion. Buddhism of Laos people has a unique identity and identity. Due to being mixed with the traditional beliefs of the Laos people and mixing with Mahayana Buddhism beliefs. Drum in Theravada Buddhism of Laos was taken as a religious symbol. The drum sounds were used in the inheritance of Buddhism, is the sound of the preaching, the dharma talk and the voice of the Buddha's word. Laos people pay attention to the merit of drum and drum making which has the highest goal is Nirvana. Drum is a symbol of faith between the Laos Buddhists and the Laos community with a temple as the center. The drum is used as a beacon to tell the time of making merit and creating merit, is a warning to the people not to forget the merit of giving alms, is a musical instrument that ties with the HeedKhong and tradition of Laos, used fanfare in Buddhist rituals and merit festivals. The sound of the Lao drum helps to reduce the tension in Dharma practice which is in line with the characteristics of Laos people. In addition, the story of the drums is tied to the era of the Buddha, tied to the Lord Buddha, showing both worldly and religious roles. Also, a tool to access Buddhist teachings and recalling the teachings of the Lord Buddha.