THE APPLICATION OF THE FOUR DHAMMIKATTHA PRINCIPLES IN STRENGTHENING THE COMMUNITY OF KLONG HAE SUB-DISTRICT, HAT YAI DISTRICT, SONGKHLA PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to: (1) study the concepts and theories of community strengthening in Khlong Hae Subdistrict, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province; (2) examine the principle of Ditthadhammikattha 4 (the Four Principles for Present-Life Welfare) as presented in Buddhist scriptures; and (3) apply the principle of Ditthadhammikattha 4 to strengthen the community of Khlong Hae Subdistrict, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. This study employed a qualitative research approach and field research methodology. Data were collected from Buddhist documents, related concepts and previous studies, as well as in-depth interviews with key informants, including community leaders, monks, and local residents. The data were analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

The research findings revealed that: 1) A study of the theoretical concepts of community empowerment in Khlong Hae Subdistrict, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, revealed that community empowerment in Khlong Hae is fundamentally based on public participation, network building, and systematic resource management, which are the heart of sustainable community development. 2) The Four Noble Truths (Dittadhammikattha) in Buddhist scriptures consist of: Utthana Sampada (diligence), Arakkha Sampada (preservation), Kalyanamittata (associating with good friends), and Samajivita (living a balanced life). These principles serve as guidelines for living a life that leads to prosperity at both the individual and societal levels. 3) Applying the Four Principles of Right Livelihood (Dittadhammikattha 4) to strengthen the community of Khlong Hae Subdistrict, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, it was found that the Khlong Hae community was able to apply the Four Principles of Right Livelihood (Dittadhammikattha 4), which include: Diligence (Utthana Sampada), Protection (Arakkha Sampada), Good Friendship (Kalyanamittata), and Right Living (Samajivita). For tangible community development to encompass economic, social, cultural, educational, environmental, and health aspects, villagers should be diligent in their occupations, manage resources appropriately, form groups and build collaborative networks within the community, and live a life of moderation. This results in a strong and self-reliant community.