The Influence of Theravada Buddhist Philosophy Embedded in the Nirat Literary Works of Sunthornphoo to Thai Society

Abstract

This study aims to (1) examine Sunthorn Phu’s Nirat literature, (2) investigate the Theravāda Buddhist philosophy embodied in his Nirat works and its influence on Thai society, (3) analyze the philosophical concepts reflected in these literary works, and (4) propose a body of knowledge concerning the application of Theravāda Buddhist philosophy derived from Sunthorn Phu’s Nirat literature for the sustainable development of Thai society. This qualitative study employed documentary research in conjunction with in-depth interviews. The key informants consisted of nine experts in Thai literature, Buddhist studies, and Buddhist philosophy. The research instruments included a document analysis form and a semi-structured interview protocol. Data credibility was ensured through triangulation, while the collected data were analyzed using content analysis and interpretive synthesis.

The findings reveal that Sunthorn Phu’s Nirat works—Nirat Mueang Klaeng, Nirat Phra Bat, and Nirat I-nao—possess not only outstanding literary and aesthetic value but also serve as significant socio-cultural records that subtly integrate Theravāda Buddhist teachings. The most prominent philosophical concepts identified include the Four Sublime States of Mind (Brahmavihāra 4), which promote compassion, loving-kindness, and harmonious social relationships; the Three Characteristics of Existence (Tilakkhaṇa), which emphasize impermanence, suffering, and non-self as foundations for detachment and wisdom; and the Five Sensual Pleasures (Kāmaguṇa 5), which encourage awareness of sensory attachment through the perspectives of gratification (assāda), danger (ādīnava), and escape (nissaraṇa). Based on these findings, the study synthesizes a conceptual framework entitled the CDP Model, comprising three interrelated dimensions: Creating Society, Developing the Mind, and Promoting Education. The model represents the study’s original contribution by providing an integrative framework for applying Theravāda Buddhist philosophy embedded in classical Thai literature to strengthen moral values, educational development, and sustainable social development in contemporary Thai society.