The Model For Creating A Dhammadayada Network Of Wat Phra Dhammakaya

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to: 1) study the creation of Dhammadayada networks in Buddhist scriptures, 2) study the creation of Dhammadayada networks at Wat Phra Dhammakaya, and 3) propose a model for creating a Dhammadayada network at Wat Phra Dhammakaya. This research is qualitative in nature (Documentary Research), utilizing document studies and data from 27 sets of in-depth interviews conducted through fieldwork, including both interviews and participant observation. The collected data was analyzed and presented descriptively.

The research findings are as follows:

Creating Dhammadayada Networks in Buddhist Scriptures: The creation of a Dhammadayada network refers to the Buddha preaching to the five ascetics, wealthy householders, sect leaders, and rulers. After this, they became ordained and took refuge as Buddhists, forming a network among the Buddhist community.

Creating Dhammadayada Networks at Wat Phra Dhammakaya: The process of creating a Dhammadayada network includes ordination projects, novice monk ordination projects, projects for ordaining laymen and laywomen, and meditation retreats for the public. The network is divided into departments based on knowledge and expertise, and communication is facilitated through online channels. The decentralization of the Dhammadayada network is managed within the organization, which is structured into offices, divisions, and departments. There are directors, division heads, and department heads, and a regional committee system provides policies from the central office. The network is maintained by instilling determination and organizing activities for network participation.

Proposed Model for Creating a Dhammadayada Network at Wat Phra Dhammakaya: (1) Establishment of Dhammadayada training programs for all groups of people, regardless of gender or age, to instill habits and determination. (2) Establishment of a Dhammadayada network system, structured into offices, divisions, departments, zones, and provinces for easier coordination. (3) Organizing activities to strengthen the Dhammadayada network, such as chanting the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, the One Million Monks Alms Offering Project across Thailand, and the offering of 30,000 Kathina robes throughout Thailand. (4) Empowering the centers to independently create their Dhammadayada networks. (5) Sustaining the Dhammadayada network through the formation of volunteer groups to support Buddhism, focusing on network development through sermons, capacity-building training (Retraining), and habit formation through various activities.