The Criteria of Naming Buddhist Temples in Phra Pradaeng District Samut Prakan Province by Considering Their Thoughts, Beliefs and Values

Abstract

This research article aims to study the origins and analyze the thoughts, beliefs, and values reflected in the names of temples in Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan Province, totaling 38 names. Data was collected from documents and interviews with local individuals. The study found that the origins of temple names in Phra Pradaeng can be categorized into six groups: 1) the names based on the name of a sub-district or village, which accounted for the largest portion with 13 names or 34.21%, 2) the names based on geographical features, with 9 names representing 23.68%, 3) the names honoring significant individuals related to the temple, totaling 7 names or 18.42%, 4) the names derived from important events, with 5 names, accounting for 13.16%, 5) the names based on natural flora with 3 names or 7.90%, and 6) the name related to Mon language with 1 name or 2.63%. The temple names in Phra Pradaeng also reflected five key thoughts, beliefs, and values of the local people: 1) the importance of the location and surrounding environment of the temple, 2) the value placed on respecting and honoring significant individuals, 3) the importance of important events related to the temple; 4) the beliefs in Buddhism and concepts of heaven, and 5) the recognition of the Mon ethnic group.