GUIDELINES FOR THE SANGHA ADMINISTRATION BASED ON THE PRINCIPLES OF APARIHANIYA DHAMMA IN PHANGNGA PROVINCE

Abstract

This thesis aims to: 1) study the administration of monastic affairs; 2) study the principles of Aparihaniyadhamma; and 3) analyze the administration of monastic affairs in Phang Nga Province according to the principles of Aparihaniyadhamma. This study was conducted using qualitative research methods, combining document analysis with in-depth interviews with 20 qualified individuals.The research findings revealed that

1. The administration of the Sangha affairs in Phang Nga Province is an important mechanism for maintaining the stability of Buddhism in contemporary society. It covers six areas of administration: governance, religious education, welfare education, propagation of Buddhism, public utilities, and public welfare. This administration not only serves to organize the internal structure of the Sangha, but also concretely connects Buddhism with the community and local culture.
2. Aparihaniyadhamma serves as an important framework of Buddhist good governance, helping to strengthen unity, discipline, transparency, and the credibility of the Sangha organization through regular meetings, collective decision-making based on Sangha resolutions, adherence to the Dhamma-Vinaya as the principal guideline, respect for senior monks, and a simple, mutually supportive way of life.
3. The administration of the Sangha affairs in Phang Nga Province in accordance with Aparihaniyadhamma results in effective performance across all six areas, aligns with the local context, and enhances public faith. Aparihaniyadhamma significantly integrates Dhamma, Vinaya, and administration into a unified framework, constituting an important body of knowledge that can serve as a policy foundation for promoting Sangha administration with standards and transparency.