Abstract:
The study entitled The Empowerment of Mental Powers for Buddhists in the United States According to 5 Bala : A Case Study of Wat Mongkoltepmunee consisted of the following objectives: 1) to investigate the context, problems, and obstacles in of Buddhists living in the United States and the enhancement of mental powers by Wat Mongkoltepmunee; 2) to explore the concepts of mental power enhancement according to academic principles and 5 Bala in Theravada Buddhism; and 3) to analyze the enhancing the mental powers of Buddhists in the United States according to 5 Bala of Wat Mongkoltepmunee.
The study employed a qualitative research approach to collect data from 23 key informants through interviews and non-participant observation. The obtained data were analyzed by using concepts, theories, and academic researches to create a conclusion together with credible data, highlighting the connection that led to the tangible and relevant proof to the truths. From the study, the findings are found as follows:
1) From an investigation into the context, problems, and obstacles in of Buddhists living in the United States and the enhancement of mental powers by Wat Mongkoltepmunee, the following findings are found: (1) Differences, inequality, uncomfortable livelihood, and personal problems are among the problems facing Thais residing in the United States; (2) The context of Wat Mongkoltepmunee's mental power enhancement reveals that the temple has aided Thais living in the United States, for example, by providing propagation assistance; serving as a place for Thais to meet and attend various Buddhist activities; providing opportunities for Thais to make merit through giving, listening to Dhamma sermons, observing the precepts, and meditating, as well as giving help both mentally and physically, and etc.
2) From exploring the concepts of mental power enhancement according to academic principles and 5 Bala in Theravada Buddhism, the findings discover that the enhancement of mental powers refers to a state of mind filled with confidence and eagerness to face any challenge or situation. It is also the attribute of an individual's emotion, attitude, or motive to work in accordance with the objectives of working, in order to overcome numerous problems and obstacles, allowing one to achieve the set destination. These are the behavioral components for displaying enthusiasm, dedication, affection, and morale of individuals who execute work, which are regarded as important for work performance and equip individuals to face any obstacles in order to effectively carry out varied tasks. In Buddhism, the enhancement of mental powers according to 5 Balain Theravada Buddhism refers to the Dhamma as the power, that is, the unshakability or immovability as the power to eliminate unwholesome states which leads to realization of Magga (Paths), Phala (Fruitions), and Nibbāna. It is the states that cannot be influenced by the opposing state and also supports other wholesome states.
3) From an analysis into the enhancing the mental powers of Buddhists in the United States according to 5 Bala of Wat Mongkoltepmunee, the findings show that there are 5 stages as follows: (1) The first stage involves strengthening one's conviction in the correct things, based on the principles that "those who do good receive good, those who do bad receive bad," and not being shaken by the temptations to do wrong things by resolving to do good; (2) The second stage involves enhancingones endeavor and diligence in carrying out various duties on a regular basis, as the accomplishment of various tasks is dependent on endeavor; (3) The third stage involves reinforcing mindfulness and awareness in the present moment and at all times in order to reduce heedlessness while performing various tasks; (4) The fourth stage involves strengthening the mind with determination, calmness, and one-pointedness on what one is doing, as well as not being shaken by surrounding distractions or distracted while performing various tasks; and (5) The fifth stage involves enhancing one's correct knowledge and opinions that are relevant to the truths, recognizing what is favorable and what is not, what is correct and what is incorrect, and avoiding believing all allures that lead to ruin. This is the enhancement of knowledge in a variety of areas and avoiding blind faith in the wrong things. All 5 stages are carried out through various events at Wat Mongkoltepmunee in the United States, which are similar to those held in Thai temples.