A Study of People’s Faith toward Vessuvan Deity at Wat Khet Chom Thong, Bangkok

Abstract

The objectives of this article were: 1) to study the faith in Buddhist scriptures 2) study the faith toward Vessuvan deity 3) analysis of people’s faith toward Vessuvan deity of Wat Khet Chom Thong, Bangkok. This is a Qualitative field Research by In-depth-Interview. The key informants 15 monks/ persons.

The results of the study found that: the word ‘Saddha’ in Buddhism means believing consisting of 4 types: 1) Kammasaddha, 2) Vipakasaddha, 3) Kammassakatasaddha and 4) Tathagatabodhisaddha Those who are right faithful and confidential in Buddhism consisting of rational wisdom called Saddhañanasampayutta or wisdom-associated With relevant reason, faith arises so it is called Akaravatisaddha. The faith toward deity caused by wholesome actions consisting of; arm giving, morality, and wisdom development, such as the virtue of Sakka deity which are 7 virtuous qualities and 10 meritorious deeds. There are 3 types of deities: 1) conventional deity, 2) born deity, 3) purified deity. Vessuvan deity is praised as the great deity, because he is guardian of Buddhism. Other deities reflect an exampling human for virtuous living to prevent superstitious beliefs. People’s faith in Vessuvan deity of Wat Khet Chom Thong will lead to virtuous living if having faith in him. Those who have studied the history of Vessuvan will impress his good deeds and use it as an idol to follow which good results for oneself. So, faith in Buddhism must always be accompanied by wisdom, which leads to the success in various activities and is also a mental anchor for the better living in Thai society.