ABSTRACT

             This thesis is of the three  objectives, i.e.; (1) to study principles and methods of propagation of Buddhism, (2) to study the roles of Phrabrahmavajiraña¯ nฺ a (Prasit Kheman˙ karo) in propagation of Buddhism abroad, and (3) to analyze problems, obstacles, and then to suggest the way to develop Buddhist propagation process in abroad undertaken by Phrabrahmavajiraña¯ nฺ a (Prasit Kheman˙ karo. Methodology was a documentary research from Buddhist scriptures, books and written papers of authority as well as life and works of Phrabrahmavajiraña¯ nฺ a (Prasit Kheman˙ karo) including interviews with the related persons both in Thailand and abroad.

             Research findings were as followings :

             Phrabrahmavajiraña¯ nฺ a (Prasit Kheman˙ karo) has applied methods of Buddhist propagation to his mission abroad with focus on the goal of triple goodness : as to patience, instruction, and moral standard, due to the fact that in propagation of Buddhism abroad, one must be patient, complied with good behaviour so that he can convince the faith of wrong people, that is to say, one must be in good behavior in speech, law and order, easy living, and exertion.

Results of propagation of Buddhism abroad rendered by Phrabrahmavajiraña¯ nฺ a (Prasit Kheman˙ karo)  reflect his virtue comprised of seven characteristics, i.e. (1) faith, (2) impartiality, (3) forbearance, (4) leadership, (5) following virtues of a gentleman, (6) good behaviour, and (7) competent in the five experiences – administration, education, buildings and construction, public welfaire, and public social works.

The roles of Phrabrahmavajiraña¯ nฺ a (Prasit Kheman˙ karo) in administration is that of the management of the temple according the policy led down by Thai Order of Sangha. To this particular, he had issued plans for the propagation of Buddhism, launched projects to control and supervise the organization, presiding over the board of constructing the temple, directing meetings, training religious affaires and promoting culture and arts, leading Thai Sangha Forum in U.S.A., as well as administrating and looking after religious activities run by Thai Mission for the Over Sea.

Regarding problems and obstacles, their causes were from various factors, i.e.  (1) on personnel, they are lack of expertise in Buddha’s teachings and practice, (2) on language, incompetency in language, especially English, as media of communication, (3) on administration and planning, (4) on teaching method and application of new technique to propagation, (5) on the personal approach to foreigners with different languages, religions, culture and traditions, (6) on the lack of sufficient budget.

Recommendations made to the ways to develop propagation of Buddhism in abroad comprise of (1) rendering faith and confidence to people, (2) good understanding to each other among religious followers, (3) development of potentiality of Buddhist personnel resources, (4) promotion of foreign languages learning,  and (5) encouragement of using new technology for the Buddhist propagation and also maintenance of the standard of a good Buddhist.

Download