THE STUDY OF THE ROLE OF ECCLESIASTICAL OFFICIALS IN APPLYING THE PRINCIPLES OF BRAHMAVIHĀRA IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE SANGHA IN CHAWANG DISTRICT, NAKHON SI THAMMARAT PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aims to study the role of ecclesiastical administrators in applying the Four Brahmavihāras to the administration of the Sangha in Chawang District, as well as to provide recommendations on approaches for promoting the study of the role of ecclesiastical administrators in applying the Four Brahmavihāras in Sangha administration in Chawang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The research employed a mixed-methods approach: Quantitative research: The sample group consisted of 113 Buddhist monks in Chawang District. Qualitative research: Key informants included district ecclesiastical governors, sub-district ecclesiastical governors, abbots, and related persons, totaling 7 participants. The research instruments used for data collection were questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using content analysis techniques. The findings revealed that the overall role of ecclesiastical administrators in applying the Four Brahmavihāras to the administration of the Sangha in Chawang District was at a high level ( = 3.52). Considering each aspect separately, compassion (karuṇā) scored the highest average ( = 3.60), while loving-kindness (mettā) scored the lowest ( = 3.47), respectively.   The recommendations are as follows: The promotion of the role of ecclesiastical administrators should emphasize cultivating loving-kindness through training and activities such as visiting patients and helping the needy. With regard to compassion, proactive assistance should be emphasized in both material and spiritual aspects. Sympathetic joy (muditā) should be encouraged by honoring the achievements of others to foster unity. Equanimity (upekkhā) should be developed toward fairness, supported by training and forums for opinion exchange to enhance transparency. In conclusion, the application of the Four Brahmavihāras in Sangha administration should be further developed through training processes and integrated activities to strengthen and sustain the role of ecclesiastical administrators