THE APPLICATION OF THE PRINCIPLE OF DHARMA IN THE DECENTRALIZATION OF THE AUTHORITY OF THE AYUTTHAYA PROVINCIAL SANGHA

Abstract

The objectives of this research article were: 1) to study the status of decentralization within the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Sangha Administration; 2) to analyze the application of the Sappurisa-dhamma (Virtues of a Righteous Person) principles to the decentralization of the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Sangha Administration; and 3) to propose guidelines for applying the Sappurisa-dhamma principles to the decentralization of the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Sangha Administration. This study employed a qualitative research methodology. The 20 key informants consisted of Sangha administrators at the levels of Provincial Ecclesiastical Governor, District Ecclesiastical Governor, Sub-district Ecclesiastical Governor, and Abbot, as well as Chairpersons of Monastic Residences, general monks, officials from the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Office of Buddhism, government officials or state employees, Phra Pariyatti Dhamma school teachers, lay stewards, and university lecturers or staff. The research instrument used was structured interviews. Data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive narration.

The research results were as follows:

1) Regarding the status of decentralization within the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Sangha Administration, the management is integrated based on the Dhamma-Vinaya (Doctrine and Discipline), the Sangha Act, and the regulations of the Sangha Supreme Council. The focus is on reducing the limitations of centralized power by decentralizing and providing opportunities for local Sangha administrators (at the district, sub-district, and temple levels) as well as the community to participate in decision-making and immediate problem-solving. This approach enhances operational flexibility and responsiveness to local contexts. Meanwhile, policy-level tasks and legal matters remain reserved at the provincial level. This implementation considers personnel readiness, local potential, and appropriate timing, conducted alongside systematic evaluation.     2) Concerning the analysis of the application of the Sappurisa-dhamma principles to decentralization, although the current administrative structure emphasizes a hierarchical system to maintain unity, local decentralization has tangibly enhanced operational efficiency. The success of authority delegation relies on the readiness and capability of the empowered personnel. Furthermore, allowing the laity and the private sector to participate in certain missions strictly requires the Sappurisa-dhamma principles as a regulatory framework to prevent transparency issues and build confidence in the administration of Buddhist affairs.

3) In terms of the guidelines for applying the 7 principles of Sappurisa-dhamma to decentralization, effective administration of Sangha affairs can be achieved by separating policy work at the central level and transferring operational tasks to the local level for cost-effectiveness