Abstract:
This thesis aims at studies of concept; belief as well as significance of Buddha images in the Society and Politic of Thailands Rattanakosin period. Apart from being religiously important, the studies have found that the Buddha images which are reverent objects deeply play an important role in the society and politic of Rattanakosin period. Considering the political importance, making, renovating as well as gathering the important Buddha images from various parts of Thailand may indicate that the kings are the persons protecting, supporting and even rehabilitating Buddhism which are all the duty of the kings as a Dharmaraja, a righteous king. Also, the Buddha images are the message of understanding to the people that the country has been reformed in various ways and Buddhism is well protected as it was. All these are the symbols of glory and charismatic power as the king of kings influenced by ancient Indian thought Cakravarti which also because of possessing of important Buddha images considerably. Socially, the Buddha images in Rattanakosin period are significant as the reflexions of the Thai society in various propectives in various times such as the reflexions of wealthy, the belief of the people. The studies have also found that Buddha images are sometimes turned to account of solving some problems.