Basic Provisions of Religions: The Concept of Peace Building in Thai Society

Abstract

This research has three objectives: 1) to study the basic provisions for coexistence in Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam, 2) to examine the peace-building processes in Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam, and 3) to analytically study the basic provisions of Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam as foundational elements for peace-building in Thai society. This is a qualitative field research conducted in three target areas: a Buddhist community in Ban Sieo, Wang Chai Sub-district, Nam Phong District, Khon Kaen Province, and the Wat Tha Karong community, Ban Pom Sub-district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province; a Christian community in Ban Song Khon, Pong Kham Sub-district, Wan Yai District, Mukdahan Province; and a Muslim community at Kudee Chor Fa Mosque, Khlong Takian Sub-district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. The findings reveal that the basic provision of Buddhism is the Five Precepts; for Christianity, the Ten Commandments; and for Islam, the Five Pillars of Practice. The peace-building processes in all three religions are grounded in their respective core teachings. These processes begin with providing knowledge and understanding of the religion, followed by gradual internalization through practices aligned with local traditions and customs. The analysis of the basic religious provisions shows that each religion encourages its followers to coexist peacefully and happily, free from mutual suspicion, while fostering trust, mutual respect, and shared ethical values. Several core teachings among the three religions were found to be consistent and mutually reinforcing.