Buddhist approaches to support meditation practitioner of Thailand forest monks Dhamma centers

Abstract

This thesis is “Buddhist Approaches to Support Meditation Practitioner of Thailand Forest Monks Dhamma Centers” it has two objectives, the first is, to show the encouragement according to Buddhism and to analyze the encouragement given to Dhamma practitioners in the forest monasteries of Thailand.

The result of the research, according to the theory and texts, is that encouragement is to give moral support, enable one to accomplish goals, enable one to solve various problems of life. It was called “motive in psychological sense”. Its bases can be both internal and external. In Buddhism, Yonisomanasikara (Systematic Thinking) an external base of encouragement is Kalyanamitta (having a good friend).  Internal bases of encouragement in this research are five components of faculties or power, they are, faith, energy, mindfulness, concentration and wisdom. Buddhist approach to encouragement is done by : 1) giving example, 2) comparison, 3) with instruments, 4) being a role model 5) performing miracle.

In the respect of the process of cultivation of encouragement in the forest monastery tradition five methods are found, they are : 1) consulting with the master, 2)  study and observe the master’s behavior, 3) consulting with friends, 4) consulting with layman or laywoman who progress in practice and 5) study from master’s biography. From analysis, it was found that the motivation theory in psychology and Buddhist approach to encouragement in the Buddha’s time and encouragement process practiced in Thai forest monastery tradition are correspondent.