Development and Enhancement of the Art and Cultural Identity of Temples in Song Khanong Subdistrict, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan Province

Abstract

This qualitative research aimed to: 1) study the historical background of temples in the area; 2) examine the moral cultivation provided by monks to the community; and 3) investigate the roles and participation of monks in community development within Song Khanong Subdistrict, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan Province. Data were collected through documentary research, area observations, and interviews with community leaders and abbots. The target areas were purposively selected, comprising three temples: Wat Khan Lat, Wat Chak Daeng, and Wat Pa Ket. The findings showed that: (1) the three temples possessed distinct but complementary identities—Wat Khan Lat represented Mon cultural heritage, Wat Chak Daeng functioned as a Buddhist learning center, and Wat Pa Ket embodied the value of a registered ancient monument and its associated arts; (2) monks cultivated morality through Dhamma instruction, observance of the Five Precepts, morality camps, and ordination programs linked to community life; and (3) monks contributed to five dimensions of community development: culture and tradition, education and livelihoods, public welfare, solidarity and gratitude, and communication for contemporary society. The findings were synthesized into a “temple-based identity–morality–participation model.” The model explains how temples mobilize cultural capital, foster moral learning, and coordinate households, temples, and communities so that cultural conservation and quality-of-life development proceed together.