Abstract:
This thesiss objectives were :1) to study the stratagem of precept observing in Theravada Buddhism, 2) to study of precept observing of the Buddhists in Buddhism and 3) to study the stratagem affecting the precept observing of the Buddhists at Wat Si Suk, Bangkok. It was qualitative research with the field by in-depth interviews. 15 Buddhists who observed the precepts at Wat Si Suk, Bang Mot, Chom Thong, Bangkok
The results revealed that the stratagem or an ingenious method refers to a tactic communication leading to knowledge and practice in order to achieve the goal. This method is required in every science and dimension of life. Uposathasila refers to the precepts for lay Buddhists who wish for advance practice higher than the five precepts. It contains 8 themes: 1) non-violence, 2) stealing, 3) sexual misconduct, 4) lies, 6) any intoxications, illegal drugs and liquor consuming, 6) abstaining from food after lunch, 7) abstaining from entertainment, singing, dancing and 8) abstaining from sleeping in high beds. Precept observing helps to build awareness, fear of sin, not violating the 5 precepts, it also is encouraged by family, religion, and society. the faith of precept observing generates self-improvement, advanced precept observing, awareness, reducing problems for individual and others, preventing from drug addiction, crime, sexual misconduct, and it is a good norm for society.
The precept observing of the Buddhists at Wat Si Suk had a motive and a goal for the benefit of this world as its domain; for the happiness and prosperity of oneself and family, continuity of body and speech calm and to alleviate defilements such as greed, anger and delusion, free from various dangers such as being persecuted, etc. After their body and mind has been purified by the precepts, the precept observants will use as a basis for developing the mind to become more concentrated and higher in wisdom.
The stratagem affecting the precept observants of the Buddhists at Wat Si Suk found that it has been cultivated since the ancestor, consistently adhered to and modified to keep up with the present society. For performing religious ceremonies, Buddhists at Wat Si Suk begin with alms offering to Bhikkhus, charity, making merit, observing the five precepts or eight precepts on Buddhist days, listening to the Buddhas teaching, and meditation led by the Sangha of Wat Si Suk. Bhikkhus also guided and helped the community, participating for solving problems that arise in the community, this causes the good relationship between the Buddhists of Wat Si Suk and the monastery for merit making, developing their virtues and mentality, merit performance, and meditation according to Buddhist teaching.