An Analysis of Culture and Ethics of Luang Pu Mee Chai Worship

Abstract

          The aims of this research were: 1) to study the theoretical concept of Buddhist ethical values in general; 2) to study the influence of Luang Pu Mee Chai worship towards the community lifestyle; 3) to analytically study the culture and ethics in Luang Pu Mee Chai worship. This qualitative research employed the participatory observation and in-depth interview forms as its research tools with 25 key informants. The obtained data were interpreted through the descriptive analysis according to the deductive analysis method.

          The research results were as follows:

          1) Ethical values are the ultimate goal of life and happiness. It relates to the value of life making life precious; ethics is also a criterion of human conduct to be accepted by the trust in social coexistence; is a good way of living and community.

          2) Luang Pu Mee Chai (Pu Yuen) is a standing Buddha image, 2.49 meters wide, 7.79 meters high, and is enshrined at Wat Pho Chai, Ban Don Tan, Moo 8, Na Kha, Muang, Udon Thani. It is the old Buddha, created around the year 2100 BE in the era of Phra Choa Chai Chettha in Vientiane. The total age is about 444 years. Luang Pu Mee Chai worship shows contribution to the society and the individual. This results in a strong and peaceful community.

          3. The culture of Luang Pu Mee Chai worship shows a culture in two areas; namely, morality and materialism, but it is hidden in the worship culture. When worshiping, the worshiper will have the virtue of worship as a way of life and this creates the disciplines and manners in the society including the artifact conservation of the community as the heart of the community residents to achieve the gold of life in living.