Journal of MCU Languages and Cultures

The Concept of Śūnyatā in Madhyamaka and Yogācāra

2024-12-17T11:04:21+07:00

This research article aims to achieve three objectives: 1) To study the concept of Śūnyatā in the Madhyamaka school, 2) To study the concept of Śūnyatā in the Yogācāra school, and 3) To conduct a comparative analysis of the concept of Śūnyatā in Madhyamaka and Yogācāra. The study primarily relies on the texts Mūlamadhyamakakārikā and Trisvabhāvanirdeśa, along with other relevant documents and research, as the basis for examining and comparing the concept of Śūnyatā in these two schools. The findings reveal that the concept of Śūnyatā in both schools is similar at the level of conventional truth (saṃvṛtisatya), in that everything is considered empty due to interdependent origination. However, at the ultimate level (paramārtha), Yogācāra holds that Nirvāṇa, as the result of realizing Śūnyatā, exists independently without relying on any conditions. It arises from perceiving the pure flow of consciousness, free from the dualistic view of a perceiver and the perceived. Yogācāra asserts that Nirvāṇa, as a supramundane truth (lokuttara-dharma), possesses inherent existence (svabhāva). In contrast, Madhyamaka maintains that even Nirvāṇa arises through interdependent origination, meaning that it cannot exist independently and requires conditions to come into being. Therefore, according to Madhyamaka, Nirvāṇa is also devoid of inherent existence (asvabhāva).

IMPROVING QUALITY OF LIFE THROUGH PRAYER

2025-01-23T15:43:58+07:00

The purpose of this article is to analyze the improvement of quality of life through prayer. The results of the study found that praying before going to bed every day for at least one month or more, the most popular mantras are the Itipiso mantra and the Chinnabanchorn mantra continuously, and there is some meditation. The result is to help the matter resolve the problem. Stress reduction Sleep more soundly than before. Showing the way to make corrections Problems or sacred things that help the stories be resolved. From the 10 monks/people interviewed, it is known that by chanting continuously for at least a month and chanting at least one mantra or more, problems in life will be resolved and the quality of life will be better in terms of physical aspect. Normalize physical health Systems work efficiently, mentally making A calm mind creates merit, has the wisdom to see ways to solve social problems, has volunteer spirit, and has unity in the community. Therefore, praying has a good effect on the mind because it makes the mind calm. Have calmness, focus, have a kind heart, and sympathize with others. Think only of doing good. and has a positive effect on the body and mind, making it healthy The systems within the body work normally. Makes the outside body bright, the face has a zodiac sign, has an aura, the face looks good, affects the mood well, not angry, not greedy, not delusional, creates wisdom to solve problems. make life happy

Influence of Patronage of Buddhism By Kings In the Past on Thai Culture

2025-02-16T17:27:04+07:00

This academic article has three objectives. 1. To study the Buddhist expansion under influential patronage by previous Kings in covering the historical events, social and political conditions; 2. To explore the ways that Buddhism retained unique cultural and religious features through Monarchs’ patronages; 3. To analyze how Buddhism patronages has influenced culturally, materially, monastically and socially to contemporary Thai society. The findings of this article were found that Thai culture has been continuously and steadily changing under the guidance of previous kings ever since Buddhism first spread over Suvarnabhumi, ancient Thailand. The emergence of Buddhism in the Suvarnabhumi Kingdom is attested to by historic buildings and artifacts such as Phra Pathom Chedi. Throughout Thailand's history, an increasing number of Buddhist temples, pagodas, and stupas have been constructed. Tradition, philosophy, and belief are examples of non-material culture that is also transmitted. These cultures are still well-known today, and several have turned into popular tourist destinations. Buddhist customs and ceremonies, like Phapa, Kathina, and Ordination, are still observed in Thailand today. All of these Thai cultures are products of the historical patronage of Buddhism by Thai monarchs.

Language and the Pursuit of Knowledge: A Buddhist Philosophy Perspective

2025-02-14T23:51:07+07:00

This article explores the relationship between language and knowledge acquisition from a Buddhist perspective. In Buddhist epistemology, language is seen as a skillful means to convey the Buddha’s teachings, or dhamma. While language is crucial for transmitting knowledge, it is limited in expressing ultimate truths. This paper highlights the distinction between the language of conceptual understanding and direct experience, examines the relationship between language and dependent origination, and discusses the practice of Right Speech and meditation as paths to achieving the final goal of enlightenment. A middle-way approach to language is also emphasized to encourage the intelligent, balanced, and skillful use of language. Moreover, the article investigates the interconnected and mutually reinforcing relationship between language, knowledge acquisition, and epistemology. This examination clarifies the knowledge acquisition process and supports the spiritual path. Collectively, these themes challenge the assumption that language can fully encapsulate reality, highlighting its intrinsic limitations, particularly when conveying ultimate truths. By analyzing these perspectives, the article underscores the importance of transcending linguistic patterns to engage with deeper forms of understanding.

The Desirable Coexistence according to the Bases Sympathy Principle (Sangahavatthu 4) in the Present Thai Society

2025-01-07T16:57:00+07:00

This article is an academic article. The purpose of this article is to present the desirable coexistence according to the principles of the Sangavatthu 4 in the current Thai society. The results of the study found that the current Thai society has many problems, such as crime, theft, and other problems, making it an unlivable society. To make the society livable, it must rely on the principles of the Sangavatthu 4, which are living together with generosity, sacrifice, and sharing. It is not giving until one is rich or penniless, but sharing to show goodwill. The giver does not have to be rich or have a better status than the receiver. It also includes helping with the four necessities or property, as well as providing knowledge and understanding (Dana), speaking only beneficial or truthful things to each other (Piyavaca), performing public services to solve problems (Atthacariya) and improving morality and ethics to be a good example, and sharing happiness and suffering, acknowledging and solving problems together to create mutual benefits (Samanatata). The Four Sangavatthu are like vehicles that will lead humans to happiness and prosperity. Human society is made up of people with different backgrounds, both good and bad. There are both rich and poor people. Therefore, the desirable coexistence in the current Thai society must rely on the principles of the four social objects to bind people together, to live together peacefully and sustainably.