Observing the Sabbath in Buddhist Cultures: A Cross-Cultural Perspective Between Thai and Burmese Practices

บทคัดย่อ

This article compares Sabbath (Uposatha) observance in Thai and Burmese Buddhist cultures, focusing on their religious rituals and cultural practices. The Uposatha, a day for spiritual renewal, holds significant importance in Theravāda Buddhism. The study identifies similarities such as meditation, recitation of precepts, and food offerings to monks, while also noting differences shaped by social and historical factors. In Thailand, practices emphasize community gatherings at temples with elaborate offerings and ceremonies, while in Burma, communal almsgiving and traditional chants reflect local beliefs. The article also explores how historical events like colonization and modernization have influenced Uposatha’s observance in both countries. Using a qualitative approach with interviews, field observations, and literature review, the research highlights the evolving relationship between religion, culture, and society in maintaining and adapting Uposatha practices. The article enhances our understanding of Buddhist cultural diversity and provides insights into promoting cultural exchange and harmony within Buddhist communities.