THE DHAMMA PRACTICE BASED ON GITA METHOD OF BUDDHAMAHAMETTA DHAMMA PRACTICE CENTER BANG PA-IN DISTRICT, PHRA NA KHON SRI AYUTTHAYA PROVINCE

Abstract

This research contains 3 primary objectives: (1) to examine the practice of Dhamma as described in the Theravāda Buddhist scriptures, (2) to explore the Dhamma practice according to the Dhamma Keeta approach at the Dhamma Practice Center of Phuttha Mahāmettā, located in Bang Pa-In District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, and (3) to analyze and present the model of Dhamma practice based on the Dhamma Gita approach at the aforementioned center. This study adopts a qualitative research methodology through documentary work and in-depth interviews. The interviewees comprise four resident meditation instructors, 15 practitioners who have completed an intensive meditation retreat, and a total of 20 experts and practitioners.

The findings indicated that the Dhamma Gita performed at the Dhamma Practice Center of Phuttha Mahāmetta adheres to the Four Foundations of Mindfulness (Satipaṭṭhāna) framework, incorporating three primary Samatha meditative objects: (1) loving-kindness (Mettā) from the Brahmavihāra, and (2) two recollections (Anussati), namely Buddhānussati and Upasamānussati. The practice integrates Dhamma Gita as a meditative chant to support the mental cultivation and mindfulness in all bodily postures. The practice is structured into 3 main stages: Principles of Practice: Practitioners maintain mindfulness and clear comprehension (Sati-Sampajañña) based on bodily postures, with loving-kindness as a central meditative object. The practice incorporates Buddha and tranquility recollection, alongside Dhamma Gita chanting, to cultivate mindfulness, concentration (Samādhi), and insight (Paññā). Method of Practice: Practitioners are required to sustain continuous mindfulness and clear comprehension in all bodily postures. Loving-kindness is developed through Dhamma Keeta chanting to refine the mind, making it receptive to meditation. Buddha recollection is applied alongside Dhamma Gita to generate the joy on Dhamma. Tranquility recollection is used to facilitate the experience of inner peace by subduing all defilements. Outcomes of Practice: Practitioners experience mindfulness and clear comprehension, with loving-kindness integrated with Dhamma Gita fostering an initial sense of mental relaxation and relief from suffering. Buddha recollection, when combined with Dhamma Gita, results in joy and spiritual upliftment. Tranquility recollection leads to deep serenity called Passaddhi, arising from a mind free from defilements.