The Study of Chinese Religions in Chiangmai: A Case Study of Guanyin Dhammathan Foundation

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to study the history, rituals, and beliefs of the Guanyin Dhammathan Foundation in Chiang Mai Province. This research base on a qualitative research model. This research aim to collect and collecting data in the field to study general conditions and understand the rituals held at the  Guanyin Foundation. The researcher interviewed committee of the Foundation and randomly interviewed laymen who came to worship in the Foundation. An analyzing beliefs based on the concepts of Structure – Function Theory that mentioned by Malinowski. The results of the research revealed that in the past, the Guanyin Dhammathan Foundation used to be a religious place in the form of a Chinese monastery before changing to a foundation-like administrative model. Despite the change in the form of religious places, the public still sees the importance of the foundation and still pays attention faith in the foundation. Now, the rituals of the Foundation Prayer ceremonies are regularly held on important religious days and opened a almshouse for all congregations to have vegetarian food. The research shows that the foundation It has served culture to fulfill the basic human need to deal with emotional feelings. Make one feel safe and it also helps strengthen the unity of members of society.