The Development and Value of Preaching Mahà Vessantara Jàtaka Maddi Kantha in Lan Na

Abstract

This research article attempts to study development and value of preaching Mahà Vessantara Jàtaka Maddi Kantha in Lan Na in the aspect of historical background, literary style, rhythmic and including its development and value. The Traditional Mahajati Preaching was originally developed from Jàtaka or birth-stories of the Buddha’s previous lives in the Tipñaka and the influence of Phra Malai Sutta until it was developed as the royal and Lanna folk tradition. In term of literary style, it was divided into two styles viz., prose and verse. The rhythmic of preaching was classified into two; the traditional tune or it was called Dhammawatra and Mahàjati and the applied or mixed tune such as reading verses with rhythm. The sermon was developed in two periods: in the early days, the preacher focused on the deep doctrine. At present, the preacher only focused on the theme of doctrine and an enjoyment. Regarding the value of preaching Mahà Vessantara Jàtaka Maddã Kaõóa, the listeners can develop the right understanding about the truth of life and encourage doing good action such as charity. In term of the preachers, they can develop their mindfulness and awareness. Lastly, the social value is to expressan Aesthetical perspective and the Buddhist ethics that appear in the art created language, as well as to preserve the traditional Lanna culture.