บุญสารทเดือนสิบกับการปรับเปลี่ยนเป็นประเพณีประดิษฐ์

Abstract

This research’s objectives were to study changes in activity types of the tenth lunar month rite of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand and to review attitudes of those living in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province and in others towards the rite’s change into invented tradition. To conduct the research, qualitative research methodology, observations at the rite, as well as interviews with rite participants were employed.

                The findings revealed that with changes in activity types, the rite has become a more invented tradition. The changes included activity grounds, activity details, activity duration as well as a procession of “Mrab”, a set of food and sweets that reflected the uniqueness of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. With regards to positive and negative attitudes of those living in the province and in others as seen through the invented tradition, the tenth lunar month tradition reflected well the identity of Nakhon Si Thammarat locals. As for the positive attitudes of Nakhon Si Thammarat locals, they considered themselves as possessing the following qualities: gratitude to their ancestors, love for others, being in unity, a strong belief in Buddhism, as well as a desire to conserve cultures for future generations. Despite the positive qualities, they still considered themselves as being too trusting. The      non-locals considered the Nakhon Si Thammarat locals as people of virtue, enjoying entertainment, having love for each other, and expressing gratitude to ancestors, yet, they were also aggressive. The tenth lunar month rite does not only reflect the locals and non-locals’ attitudes but also plays a significant role in promoting Nakhon Si Thammarat’s heritage tourism today.