A Model of Morality and Ethic of Educators According to Seven Kalyanamitta Principle of Wat Lan Tak Fa School, Nakhon Chai Si District, Nakhon Pathom Province

Abstract

This dissertation aims to (1) study concepts and theories related to moral and ethical development, (2) study the principles of Seven Kalayāṇamitta in the Theravada Buddhist scriptures, and (3) propose a model for developing the morality and ethics based on the Seven Kalayāṇamitta principle of educators of Wat Lantakfa School, Nakhon Chai Si District, Nakhon Pathom Province. It was qualitative research, emphasizing documentary work and in-depth interviews, and employing descriptive analysis methods.

Its findings revealed that morality refers to the mental goodness, while ethics pertain to good behavior expressed physically. The development of morality and ethics requires understanding what should and should not be done for oneself and society and being mindful of physical and mental conditions effected to thought. Both morality and ethics are fundamental to human development since all social problems are caused by people; thus, man development for his higher knowledge, and skills for solving life’s problems, having good friends who can discern right from wrong, and adhering to Buddhist moral principles, are essential for Thai society upholds moral culture based on Buddhist teachings.

Kalayānamitta or good friend is characterized by having purity of bodily actions, speech, and mind (Piyo), possessing wisdom in both worldly and spiritual matters (Karu), being able to guide disciples on the right views (Bhāvaniyo), explaining and persuading effectively (Vattā Ca), being open to consultation and questions, forgiving, and maintaining a calm demeanor (Vacanakkhamo), explaining complex questions in an understandable way (Gambhīrañca Katham Kattā), and following the Dhamma (No Caṭṭhāano Niyojaye).

The development of morality and ethics according to the Seven Kalayāṇamitta principle includes (1) having good relationships and being an example one of students, (2) behaving appropriately according to one’s status and living a righteous life, (3) possessing true knowledge and wisdom, continually training and improving oneself, (4) being able to explain clearly, knowing proper time and what to speak, providing guidance and being a good advisor to students, (5) being patient with all obstacles, having a strong mind, and overcoming challenges with a stable mind, (6) practicing what one taught and achieving it before teaching others, and (7) being a leader and example one in society, respected and admired by the community. The knowledge derived from the research is encapsulated in the MBG+7 model: