A STUDY OF MOTIFS AND ROLES IN THAI SOCIETY OF SONGS RELATED TO SPIRITUAL MASTERS

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Abstract

This research article aimed to study the themes and roles in Thai society of songs related to Phra Kechi Achan in Central Thailand. The researchers used a dataset of 4 songs selected from the years the songs were released, one song per year from Buddhist Era 2562-2565, limited to songs mentioning Phra Kechi Achan in Central Thailand. The selected songs are Plang Worn Luang Pho Ruai, Plang Kho Porn Luang Pho Pian, Plang Luang Pho Plai and Plang Khatha Khun Phaen (Luang Por Kuay), respectively. The methodology employed is Critical Content Analysis, which involves studying critical content and analyzing roles using William Bascom's theory. The study found that all four songs contain elements of the three categories, namely 1) characters and places, 2) objects or symbolic items, and 3) events or behaviors. It was observed that there are interesting overlapping elements that demonstrate the natural and cultural aspects of contemporary humanity transmitted through literature, particularly in this genre. Regarding the examination of the roles depicted in songs related to Phra Kechi Achan in Central Thailand, four main groups were identified: 1) roles in transmitting and disseminating the history of Phra Kechi Achan, 2) roles in transmitting and disseminating beliefs and faith in Phra Kechi Achan, 3) roles in transmitting ritual worship ceremonies for Phra Kechi Achan, and 4) roles in creating entertainment and alleviating suffering. These four groups reflect the mission of the songs, which constitute a perspective of anthropology within a culture that extends beyond economic and commercial aspects, providing a clear view of societal dynamics. Furthermore, they demonstrate the universal nature of human literary creation within contemporary social contexts.