THE APPLICATION OF THE PRINCIPLES OF SANGAHAVATTHU DHAMMA IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BY THE PEOPLE IN KHAO PHANOM SUBDISTRICT MUNICIPALITY, KHAO PHANOM DISTRICT, KRABI PROVINCE

Abstract

This study aimed to 1) examine the level of application of Sangahavatthu Dhamma in community development among residents of Khao Phanom Subdistrict Municipality, Krabi Province, and 2) propose guidelines for promoting the practical application of these principles in the area. A quantitative research approach was employed using a questionnaire as the main research instrument. The sample consisted of 364 residents living within the eight villages of Khao Phanom Subdistrict Municipality, selected through stratified random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation.

  The findings revealed that:

  1)Overall, the community members demonstrated a high level of application of the Sangahavatthu Dhamma principles, especially in the aspects of Piyavaca (pleasant speech) and Samanattata (equality). Although Dana (generosity) scored the lowest, it was still at a high level.

  2) Personal factors such as age, occupation, educational level, average monthly income, and length of residency in the community significantly influenced the application of the principles—particularly in the dimensions of Atthachariya (helpful conduct) and Piyavaca.

  3) Suggested approaches to promote the application of Sangahavatthu Dhamma include encouraging volunteerism, integrating Dhamma principles into local activities, enhancing the role of community leaders, and organizing forums for sharing everyday Buddhist practices.