An Investigation into Motivational Attitudes and Key Factors Influencing the Wat Mahawanaram Community's Perception on Amulets of Mahawanaram Temple in Ubon Ratchathani Province

Abstract

The purposes of this research were to investigate the attitudes of the Wat Mahawanaram community members towards of amulets of Mahawanaram Temple and to analyze the factors influencing their adherence to these amulets of Mahawanaram Temple, Ubon Ratchathani province. The study employed a qualitative research, collecting data through interviews with 50 community members aged 15 - 80 living in the Wat Mahawanaram community, Mueang District, Ubon Ratchathani. In-depth interviews were also conducted with 10 selected participants from the same community. For data analysis, methodological triangulation was applied in the collection methods. The findings revealed that the community's motivational attitudes towards possessing amulets were based on the following reasons: 1) Sacred objects are believed to inspire confidence and success in business and trade, career fulfillment, and an overall improved quality of life. 2) The artistic value of the Buddha image known as Phra Chao Yai In Plaeng appeals to collectors who preserve these amulets as a form of conservation while also generating income through the trade of Buddhist art. 3) The abundance of anecdotal evidence and personal experiences within the community has fostered support for the sacred relics associated with the Phra Chao Yai In Plaeng Buddha statue. The key factors influencing the community’s decision to venerate sacred relics included three areas: (1) Social factors; the community’s faith in Phra Chao Yai In Plaeng as a spiritual protector reinforces moral conduct and promotes peace and order withing the community. (2) Artistic craftsmanship; the amulets, inspired by the Lan Chang art style, feature depictions of the Buddha in the Maravijaya posture on a lotus base. They are produced in various forms such as round, oval rectangular, petal-shaped, and shield-shaped medallions, made from materials like silver, gold, black oxide, navaloha, and copper. (3) Economic and market factors; pricing and distribution depend on buyer-seller satisfaction, with considerations given to the condition of medallions (no defects), age, and production series of the medallions. The study recommends further research on amulets from the perspectives of business mechanisms and power exchange.