Ganesha: Social Innovation on Faith

Abstract

This research was a qualitative research. The objectives were 1) to study and collect beliefs, rituals and analyze the existence of beliefs about Ganesh  2) to study the social innovation of Ganesh's faith and 3) to analyze the diversity in faith towards Ganesha. In-depth interviews were using and there are 15 key informants in total.

This results to present  beliefs, rituals, the existence of beliefs and social innovation of Ganesha's beliefs in Thai society. The study found that, belief in Ganesha can be reflected through the sculpture and Ganesh Chaturthi ceremony, that causes popular trends, sacred objects, paintings, and the creation of various postures of Ganesha, demonstrating the harmonious integration of cultures. The sign of success and respect for Ganesha arises from construction of meaning from people in society through rituals, chants, worship, etc. under the culture of that area. Although, Thai society has Buddhism as the core of beliefs, worship of Lord Ganesha may be viewed as superstition cause the Lord Ganesha to be devalued and there is something else. Therefore, the respect and worship of Lord Ganesha was dismantled by dismantling the concept of reclining Buddhism and create a new meaning of Ganesha, such as being a god who can ask for anything and is the god of success. Buddhism and Ganesha are polar opposites, Thai Buddhists can harmonize between these two beliefs. Therefore, Thai society is Buddhist, but with the current social, economic and political instability causing people in society to fear uncertainty. The belief and faith therefore play a role and influence in being dependent on life. Therefore, there was a business related to belief and faith in Lord Ganesha. This is a social innovation developed with creativity and help solve problems and meet the needs of society.