A MODEL FOR CREATING HARMONY ACCORDING TO BUDDHISM

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to: 1) analyze the general conditions of reconciliation building; 2) examine the concepts, theories, and Buddhist principles related to reconciliation; and 3) develop a body of knowledge and a model for reconciliation based on Buddhist principles. This study employed a qualitative research approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using an interview guide validated for content validity (Index of Item–Objective Congruence: IOC) and analyzed by descriptive analysis. The key informants, selected through purposive sampling, comprised 25 participants, including Buddhist monks, academics, community leaders, policymakers, and representatives of civil society organizations, divided into five groups. In addition, a focus group discussion was conducted with eight experts in Buddhism, social sciences, and conflict management. The research findings revealed that: 1) reconciliation in Thailand continues to face political, social, and ideological conflicts. Although various sectors have made continuous efforts to promote reconciliation, limitations remain in public participation, structural problem-solving, and sustainable monitoring mechanisms, resulting in reconciliation efforts that have yet to achieve long-term sustainability. 2) Effective reconciliation should integrate conflict theory, reconciliation theory, and Buddhist principles, including Diṭṭhi-sāmaññatā (harmony in views), Sīla-sāmaññatā (harmony in moral conduct), Paratoghosa (attentive listening to wise counsel), and Kalyāṇamittatā (spiritual friendship), in order to foster mutual understanding, acceptance of differences, trust, and social justice. 3) This research developed a new body of knowledge in the form of the B-SHARE Model, supported by the A–B–R–P process, through the integration of the Four Brahmavihāras (divine abodes), the Four Saṅgahavatthus (principles of social integration), the Six Sāraṇīyadhammas (principles of harmonious coexistence), and the Four Agatis (sources of bias), providing a Buddhist-based framework for reconciliation. to cultivate a culture of peace, promote participation, restore relationships, and systematically transform conflicts, leading to reconciliation that is consistent with the Thai social context and supports peaceful and sustainable coexistence.