The Analysis of Values of Kathina Ceremony in Nong SanoVillage, Don Nang Hong Sub-district, Tha Uthen District, Nakhon Phanom Province

Abstract

This research aims to 1) explore the Kathina ceremony within Theravada Buddhist philosophy, 2) study the Kathina ceremony in Nong Sano Village, Don Nang Hong Sub-district, Tha Uthen District, Nakhon Phanom Province, and 3) analyze the value of the Kathina ceremony in Nong Sano Village, Don Nang Hong Sub-district, Tha Uthen District, Nakhon Phanom Province. Employing qualitative research methods, the study examines primary data from the Tipitaka and secondary data from academic documents and related research, with analysis based on inductive reasoning and the deep interviews were conducted with 25 informants.

The research results were as follows:

1) In Theravada Buddhist philosophy, the Kathina ceremony allows monks who have completed the three-month retreat to receive new robes. The Kathina period, ranging from the first waning day of the 11^th lunar month to the 15^th waxing day of the 12^th lunar month, is when the Kathina ceremony or festival takes place.

2) The Kathina ceremony in Nong Sano Village, associated with supernatural beliefs and Theravada Buddhist philosophy, is an annual tradition involving ritual practices and customs that have been preserved and followed to the present day.

3) The value of the Kathina ceremony in Theravada Buddhism in Nong Sano Village encompasses intrinsic good, which brings happiness to participants and leads towards Nibbana. Extrinsic values include the performance of beautiful ceremonies and traditions, which help to sustain Buddhism and promote social unity. Economically, it stimulates the community's economy. Aesthetically, the communal harmony observed during the ceremony brings satisfaction and joy to those involved in this meritorious event.