Ethical Values of Taoism Reflected in the Sculptures at Na Cha Sa Tai Chi Shrine, Chonburi Province: Tourists’ Perspectives

Abstract

          This research examines the ethical values of Taoism.reflected in the sculptures at Na Cha Sa Tai Chi.Shrine, Chonburi Province, from tourists' perspective. The study aims to 1) explore the sculptures at Na Cha Sa Tai Chi Shrine and 2) analyze the ethical values of Taoism.embodied in these sculptures based.on tourists' perspectives. A qualitative research approach was employed, with data collected through in-depth Interviews and document analysis. The informants included ethics experts, religious art experts, groups associated with the shrine, and visiting tourists. Data were analyzed inductively, and findings were presented using descriptive analysis.

          The results indicate that Taoist sculptures at Na Cha Sa Tai Chi Shrine can.be divided into two categories: 1) sculptures directly derived from Taoism and 2) sculptures influenced by local beliefs mixed with Taoism. The first category includes 91 sculptures, divided into three subtypes: Taoist deities, figures, and.symbols. Seven sculptures influenced by local beliefs blended with Taoist elements are included. Regarding ethical values, the sculptures directly associated with Taoism convey 15 key ethical principles: natural harmony, practicing inaction (wu wei), balancing. yin and yang, karma (doing good and receiving good; doing evil and receiving evil), responsibility, wisdom and bravery, kindness, supporting those with abilities, accumulating merit, humility, gratitude, respect, unity, honesty, and diligence. The sculptures Influenced by Taoism convey nine, ethical principles: kindness, balancing yin and yang, loyalty and justice, humility, pursuit of freedom, gratitude, wisdom and courage, unity, and responsibility.