PROMOTING VOLUNTEER WORK BASED ON THE SIX PRINCIPLES OF SARANIYA DHAMMA IN SAOTHONGTHONG COMMUNITY, PAK PHANANG DISTRICT, NAKHON SI THAMMARAT PROVINCE

Abstract

This research paper aims to: 1) study the concepts of volunteerism within the Saothongthong community, Pak Phanang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province; 2) examine the six principles of Saraniyadhamma (principles of cordiality) as found in the Theravada Buddhist scriptures; and 3) promote volunteer work in accordance with the six Saraniyadhamma principles within the Saothongthong community, Pak Phanang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. This study employed a qualitative research methodology, emphasizing document analysis and in-depth interviews with key informants, including Buddhist monks, community leaders, and volunteer representatives. The research findings are presented in a descriptive narrative format. The research findings reveal the following: 1) The concept of volunteerism in the Saothongthong community is characterized by selflessness, dedication to the common good, and a steadfast mind that remains undisturbed by obstacles, criticism, or praise. Community members engage in volunteer work with a sincere intention to serve the greater public interest rather than personal gain. 2) The six Saraniyadhamma principles outlined in the Theravada Buddhist scriptures serve as a code of conduct that fosters social harmony. These principles function as moral anchors, reminding individuals of their mutual goodwill and human interconnectedness. The six principles include: acts of loving-kindness through bodily action (metta-kayakamma), speech (metta-vaclkamma), and thought (metta-manokamma); sharing of resources (sadharanabhogita); moral consistency (silasamaññata); and harmony in views (ditthisamaññata). Together, they cultivate unity and cohesion in society. 3) Promoting volunteerism based on the six Saraniyadhamma principles within the Saothongthong community has energized communal efforts and strengthened the spirit of unity. This outcome is largely attributed to the active participation of community members in collective development, as well as their willingness to dedicate themselves to the welfare of the community over individual interests. As a result, the community is able to coexist in peace and mutual support