The Behavior of the Elderly to observe the five precepts in Wat Pa Lelai Temple Community, Suphan Buri Municipality

Abstract

            This research article aims to 1) Study the behavior of the elderly in the Pa Lelai Temple community, Suphan Buri Municipality. 2) Compare the behavior of the elderly in the Pa Lelai Temple community, Suphan Buri Municipality, categorized by personal factors; and 3) propose guidelines for applying the Five Precepts in the daily lives of the elderly in Wat Pa Lelai community, Suphan Buri Municipality. This qualitative research collected data through in-depth interviews with 30 key informants. The research instrument was an interview guide on the behavior of the elderly in the Wat Pa Lelai community. Data analysis employed contextual content analysis.

            The research results found that: 1) Behavior of keeping the Five Precepts, all elderly participants understood the Five Precepts as the fundamental moral principles in Buddhism that guide good conduct, enhance discipline, and enable individuals to live peacefully within society. These principles provide a pathway for individuals to live mindfully and to control themselves within moral boundaries, leading to a calm mind, the ability to let go of suffering and live a virtuous life. 2) Comparing the behaviors of the elderly in Wat Pa Lelai community, it was found that the principles of the Five Precepts are gender-neutral and can be practiced equally by everyone, regardless of gender. However, their application in daily life may vary in detail according to social roles, culture or community traditions. The Five Precepts should not be limited to the elderly but should be a guideline for all age groups, at individual, family and societal levels. and 3) presenting guidelines for applying the five precepts in the lifestyle of the elderly in Wat Pa Lelai community, it was found that promoting the application of the five precepts in daily life should involve easy-to-understand and accessible activities such as Dharma training, Dharma practice workshops and small group experience-sharing activities. This also includes preparing Dharma practice manuals for community members to enable participants to learn and effectively apply these principles in their daily life, thereby enhancing direct experience and increasing understanding of Dhamma practice that can be applied in daily life.