Journal of Buddhist Community

Book Review: Buddhism and Thai Society by Phra Thepwethi (Prayut Payutto)

2026-06-28T08:26:50+00:00

This book review aims to analyze the main contents, evaluate the academic and social contributions, and critically examine the strengths and limitations of Buddhism and Thai Society by Phra Thepwethi (Prayut Payutto). Employing documentary analysis and philosophical interpretation, the study finds that the book presents Buddhism as a rational system of thought capable of explaining and addressing contemporary social issues through fundamental Buddhist doctrines, including the Four Noble Truths, the Three Characteristics of Existence, Karma, and Dependent Origination. These teachings are systematically related to the cultural, ethical, and social dimensions of Thai society, demonstrating the relevance of Buddhism to contemporary social development.

The review further indicates that the book's major strengths lie in its accessible language, its effective integration of Buddhist principles with everyday life, and its encouragement of critical reflection among readers. Nevertheless, the book would benefit from a more systematic organization and the inclusion of additional contemporary case studies to strengthen its academic value. Overall, the book represents a significant contribution to Applied Buddhist Philosophy and serves as a valuable reference for scholars, students, and general readers interested in understanding the role of Buddhism in Thai society and its application to contemporary social development.

Book Review: Guidelines for Those Who Aspire to Ordain in Accordance with the Buddha’s Path for the Continuation of Buddhism by Venerable Ajahn Kanha Sukhakamo

2026-06-28T07:58:31+00:00

This book review examines "Criteria for Ordination: Following the Buddha's Path in Preserving Buddhism" by Phra Ajahn Kanha Sukhakamo. The review aims to analyze the book's essential content, academic value, and recommendations as a guide for prospective ordinands and readers interested in Buddhist monastic discipline. Employing a content analysis approach based on the Dhamma, the Vinaya, and the principles of preserving Buddhism, the study finds that the book systematically explains the meaning of ordination, the qualifications required for candidates, the proper intention for ordination, the ordination process, and the roles and responsibilities of Buddhist monks. The author emphasizes that ordination is not merely a religious ceremony but a process of self-cultivation through the training of morality (sīla), concentration (samādhi), and wisdom (paññā), enabling practitioners to live in accordance with the Dhamma-Vinaya and contribute to the continuation of Buddhism. The book's major strengths lie in its concise organization, clear presentation, and accessible language, making it suitable for prospective monks, monks, novices, and lay Buddhists. Nevertheless, incorporating additional case studies from the Buddhist scriptures and comparative discussions between the ordination practices of the Buddha's time and contemporary monastic contexts would further enrich its academic value. Overall, the book serves as a valuable introductory reference for understanding the ideals of Buddhist monastic life and the proper preparation for ordination in accordance with the Buddhist disciplinary tradition.

Book Review: Anuthin Thotsana Chiwit, Volume II by Wasin Intasara

2025-12-12T09:31:38+00:00

This book review aims to analyze the main contents, evaluate the philosophical and literary value, and critically examine the strengths and limitations of Anuthin Thotsana Chiwit by Wasin Intasara. Employing documentary analysis and philosophical interpretation, the study finds that the book presents reflections on the meaning of life through the form of personal diary writing, encouraging readers to contemplate and interpret their own experiences. The work highlights significant themes, including the acceptance of life's uncertainty, living in the present moment, and learning through suffering. These ideas are closely related to existential philosophy as well as fundamental Buddhist teachings, particularly the principles of impermanence (anicca) and suffering (dukkha), which foster wisdom and self-awareness.

Furthermore, the book is distinguished by its simple yet powerful language, its openness to readers' personal interpretation, and its meaningful integration of philosophy of life with contemporary social contexts. Although the work has certain limitations regarding its theoretical organization and academic structure, it remains a valuable contribution to the study of philosophy of life, Buddhist philosophy, and reflective learning. It is particularly suitable for scholars, students, and general readers seeking a deeper understanding of life through contemplation and self-reflection.

An Analytical Study of Philosophical Terms from phdict.online A Case Study of Metaphysics and Empiricism

2026-06-29T12:55:05+00:00

This academic article aims to conduct an analytical study of the philosophical terms compiled in the Philosophical Terms Online Information System (phdict.online) of the Office of the Royal Society of Thailand. The study specifically focuses on a case study within the Metaphysics category, specifically the group of Empiricism (known in Thai as Prasobkarn-niyom and Prajak-niyom). The objectives are threefold: to explore the systematic structure of the database, to evaluate its conceptual precision, and to analyze the dynamics of cross-cultural semantic transmission through Thai linguistic roots. The research methodology employs conceptual analysis in accordance with the analytic philosophy tradition, alongside the theoretical framework of philosophical translation.

The findings reveal that phdict.online possesses a systematic data structure with a high level of comprehensiveness. The adoption of dual terminology—"Prasobkarn-niyom" and "Prajak-niyom"—reflects a sophisticated discernment in distinguishing semantic nuances between the source of knowledge (genetic empiricism) and the outcomes of truth verification (epistemic empiricism). However, the research suggests that standard definitions should incorporate contemporary philosophical debates to ensure alignment with international standards. This article concludes that phdict.online functions not merely as a translation database but as a crucial intellectual infrastructure that strengthens the philosophical domain in Thailand.

Sustainable Development of Buddhist Leadership among Dhammayuttika Nikaya Monastic Leaders in Surin Province

2026-06-28T07:54:01+00:00

This article has three objective:1) to study the leadership concepts of Sangha Administrators of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya in Surin Province; 2) to study the conditions promoting the leadership development of Sangha Administrators of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya in Surin Province; and 3 to analyze the model for sustainable leadership development of Sangha Administrators of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya in Surin Province. Data were collected through documentary research, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. The key informants consisted of Sangha Administrators and executives from the Surin Provincial office of Buddhism. The collected data were analyzed and presented using descriptive analysis.

The study results revealed that: 1) Regarding the current leadership concepts of the Sangha Administrators of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya in Surin Province, it was found that each Administrator possesses varying levels of knowledge. Their decision-making abilities lack decisiveness due to an inability to keep pace with and fully understand the context of secular society, along with a lack of legal knowledge relevant to Sangha Administrators. Currently, performing their duties requires thinking outside the box while integrating the science of worldly knowledge and the discipline of monastic codes Dhamma-Vinaya into their Administration to steer the organization in a better direction.2) Concerning the conditions promoting leadership development, it was found that a comprehensive understanding of their administrative duties, including the six aspects of Sangha affairs, is crucial. This is achieved by encouraging Sangha Administrators to acquire knowledge regarding the roles and duties of governing monks. They must be continuously eager to learn, courageous in facing emerging novelties, and adaptable to changes in the era of globalization. 3) As for the model for sustainable leadership development, it was found that Sangha Administrators must possess a profound understanding of their duties, moral integrity, and Buddhist leadership traits to serve as a spiritual refuge for the community. These qualities should be applied within the context of the community and the temple to foster sustainable development. Therefore, the current leadership model of Sangha Administrators must reflect diversity based on the unique identity, experience, and body of knowledge of each monk.