The Model for Developing the Quality of Life of Novices at Wat Phra Dhammakaya According to the 38 Maṅgalas

Abstract

This dissertation entitled “The model for developing the quality of life of novices at Wat Phra Dhammakaya according to the 38 Maṅgalas” has three objectives: (1) to study the principles of improving the quality of life of novices at Wat Phra Dhammakaya (2) to study the 38 Maṅgalas used develop the quality of life of novices at Wat Phra Dhammakaya and (3) to present the model for developing the quality of life of novices at Wat Phra Dhammakaya according to the 38 Maṅgalas. This research employed the qualitative research methodology where data were collected by studying the documents, related researches and in-depth interview of 22 persons. The collected data were analyzed and presented by an analytical description. The research results clearly showed that the development of the quality of life of the novices at Wat Phra Dhammakaya consists of 4 aspects: (1) development of physical quality of life, which means being happy physically; (2) development of mental quality of life, which means having a happy mind; (3) development of social quality of life, which means living together peacefully; and (4) development of intellectual quality of life, which means having supreme happiness aimed at the goal of ordaining and dedicating one’s life. The development of the quality of life of the novices at Wat Phra Dhammakaya according to the 38 Maṅgalas to achieve the goal of ordaining and dedicating one’s life is a gradual development with training according to each age as follows: (1) Navaka novices, aged 12-14, with Maṅgalas 1-10 to develop physical quality of life; (2) Majjhima novices, aged 15-17, with Maṅgalas 11-14 and 19-26 to develop mental quality of life; and with Maṅgalas 15-18 to develop social quality of life; (3) Novices preparing for ordination, aged 18-20, with Maṅgalas 27-38 to develop intellectual quality of life. Obtain a model for developing the quality of life of novices at Wat Phra Dhammakaya according to the 38 Maṅgalas, namely, the Maṅgalas training according to the novice age, leading to the development of body, heart, society and wisdom for worldly and spiritual happiness, aiming at the goal of ordination and devotion of life.