THE APPLICATION OF THE SUFFICIENCY ECONOMY PHILOSOPHY IN THE THAI MONKS’RELIGIOUS WORK DEVELOPMENT IN THE SOCIAL WELFARE

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the concept of the religious work development of Thai monks in the social welfare; 2) study the concept of the main content of the sufficiency economy philosophy; 3) apply the sufficiency economy philosophy to develop religious work of Thai monks in the social welfare. This is a qualitative research using a document research method under the process of analytic, appreciative and applicative approach to lead to the application of knowledge in philosophy and Buddhism. The research results found that 1) the religious work of Thai monks in the social welfare is an important mission. It is considered an introduction for people to conserve, advise, and encourage people to develop their local areas and preserve the environment. 2) The sufficiency economy philosophy is considered a principle in life that must adhere to a moderate way of life, do not be extravagant, do not focus on material things, adhere to the middle path, live within one's means, and use wisdom in life. It is a way of life based on mindfulness. 3) The philosophy of the sufficiency economy can be applied to develop religious work of Thai monks in the field of social welfare to improve the quality of life of the people through advice and training. It is considered as building immunity for people to be strong with both morality and knowledge in using judgment to analyze problems. The context of the social landscape then leads to the evaluation of the value of things, both the good and the bad consequences that will follow, as well as the problems, obstacles and risks, and finally choosing to adjust and apply them appropriately, in line with individuals, society, communities and the environment, to create benefits for the people through the process of understanding, accessing and developing, looking for the results that occur by creating knowledge, love and unity.