Abstract:
This research is an analytical and qualitative study of the ethical principles in the inscription
at Phrapathomchedi at Watphrapathomchedi Rajchawaramaharwiharn in Nakhonpathom province.
The research was conducted in 3 parts.
In the first part, the ethical principles in the inscription at the Phrapathomchedi relating to
Nirvana and how to live were studied and analyzed. The inscription provides lifestyle guidance for
monks and laymen. Monks should follow the three religious precepts of mental practices towards
morality. Laymen should also follow the basic Buddhist ethical principles of almsgiving, the
Buddhist commandment, and praying. Ethical judgement is related to intention and deedsthe
chain of cause and effect in ones actions.
In the second part of this research, the way of life, culture and tradition of the people of
Nakhonpathom were studied from ancient times until today. The research found that Nakhonpathom
province has flourished since the period of Suwannaphum and Thawarawadee, which was
when Buddhism spread from the ancient India and the Buddha Chedi was first built. That time
coincided with the reign of King Asokmaharaj in ancient India.
In the third part of this research, monks and laymen were surveyed to ascertain how much
they know about the inscription and how it impacted on their lives. 89.5 % of the monks who
responded to the questionnaire and 70.37 % of the laymen had some knowledge of the
inscription. All respondents believed Nirvana should be their ultimate goal and that people are
good or bad depending on their own actions. The vast majority also observed Buddhist ethics as
part of their regular lifestyle.
This research suggests, therefore, that the ethical principles in the inscription at
Phrapathomchedi should be applied as widely as possible to help solve essential social problems.
Moreover, the inscription at Phrapathomchedi should be preserved as a precious inscription for
coming generations.