AN APPLICATION OF SUFFICIENCY ECONOMY ACCORDING TO BUDDISHISM OF THE LOCAL SCHOLARS IN KHAW SUB-DISTRICT, SELAPHUM DISTRICT, ROI-ET PROVINCE

Abstract

This thesis includes  3 objectives as the follow : 1) To study the concept and way of life according to the philosophy of sufficiency economy ; 2) To study concept and sufficiency economy way of life according to the Buddhist principle ; and 3) To study way of life of the local scholars.

          The research found that the concept and way of life based on the philosophy of sufficiency economy of king Rama the 9^th  “Sufficiency Living,  Sufficiency Consumption,Sufficiency and Adequacy” adheres to the three principles of Buddha teaching i.e.1)Abstaining from evil deed by following the five precepts, three wholesome actions and refraining from the six causes o ruin; 2) Doing merit deed by following the five ennobling vitues, the four strengths, the six reverences, self-discipline, awareness in living without heedlessness; 30 Purifying one s mind by following the three practices, observing the precepts and the ten bases of meritorious action and practicing meditation for both tranquility and insight development.

          The concept and way of life in sufficiency economy of the local scholars include the middle path leading to cessation of suffering, qualities of being a good man, the good to be won in this life, the noble eightfold path to end suffering, moral shame and dread of  committing evil deed, self-reliance, fourfold path of accomplishment, and fourfold bases of social solidarity.

          The way of life of local scholars is based upon Buddha Dhamma in personal development by applying sufficiency principle of satisfaction in what one has, consumes and saves. The application of Buddha Dhamma principles in the philosophy of sufficiency economy of the local scholars includes contentment, division of income, how to safely use possessions for sensual pleasures of laymen, four sublime states of mind and four virtues for lay people.