Abstract:
This study consisted of the following three objectives: 1) to examine and analyze the problems, context, and needs of meditation practitioners at Wat Mai Yai Paen in Bangkok; 2) to explore and analyze modern theories alongside the concept of sappāya (supportive conditions) in relation to meditation practitioners at Wat Mai Yai Paen; and 3) to propose the guidelines for identifying sappāya conditions conducive to meditation practitioners at Wat Mai Yai Paen. The research method involved in-depth interviews with 20 key informants, including resident monks at Wat Mai Yai Paen, former meditation participants, individuals experienced in the development of model temples within Bangkok, and experts in Buddhism and Buddhist peaceful means. The obtained qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.
From the study, the following results were found:
1) Wat Mai Yai Paen is currently facing several problems, including a deteriorating physical environment, lack of basic facilities, insufficient meditation halls, and a shortage of trained personnel. These limitations negatively affect the overall atmosphere for meditation practice and hinder community engagement. As a result, there are broader psychological and social consequences observed within the community, such as increased stress and reliance on addictive substances. The ultimate goal is to transform Wat Mai Yai Paen into a Nibbāna Sathan Dhamma (Nibbāna Dhamma Center), which will be a tranquil, green, and sustainable space that nurtures both mental well-being and social harmony.
2) The effective development of temples or meditation centers should be grounded in four key modern theoretical perspectives: (1) Community participation, which emphasizes decentralization and active involvement of local people in planning and management processes, in line with the Power of Boworn (Monastery, School, and Home) model to ensure sustainability and transparency; (2) The development of the temple as a community center, which involves the integration of traditional values with modern disciplines such as management, education, and social development; (3) Sustainable environmental development through the use of eco-friendly materials and community-led conservation efforts; and (4) The design of meditation spaces that are peaceful, harmoniously integrated with nature, and functionally supportive of meditative practices. These approaches aim to enhance the holistic experience of meditation practice, addressing the physical, mental, and social dimensions of well-being.
3) The analysis of Wat Mai Yai Paen should be conducted comprehensively using various research tools such as surveys, interviews, document analysis, and brainstorming sessions. The aim is to assess the temple's suitability based on the seven sappāya (supportive) conditions: environment, buildings and facilities, accessibility, Dhamma activities, personnel, food, climate, and bodily postures. Additionally, effective management practices should be considered, with an emphasis on cleanliness, tranquility, safety, availability of essential amenities, and active community participation. Continuous evaluation and improvement are essential to ensure that the temple genuinely serves as a conducive and sustainable space for meditation practice.
A new body of knowledge obtained is An Analysis of Sappāya Conditions Conducive to Meditation Practitioners at Wat Mai Yai Paen, Bangkok
This research introduces new knowledge under the concept Sappāya as a Pathway to a Nibbāna Sathan Dhamma and Peaceful Living at Wat Mai Yai Paen. It focuses on the integrated application of the Seven Sappāya (supportive conditions), the Four Noble Truths (Ariyasacca), and the 6S Temple Development Framework (Wat 6 S) in the development of Wat Mai Yai Paen as a meditation center conducive to the attainment of the path (magga), its fruition (phala), and ultimately Nibbāna. The study emphasizes a holistic development approach across four key dimensions: (1) physical well-being, encompassing appropriate environment, living spaces (āvāsa), alms routes (gocara), food (bhojana), climate (utu), and posture (iriyāpatha-sappāya); (2) behavioral dimension, focusing on suitable sensory contact (phassa-sappāya) and the implementation of the 6S principles (cleanliness, order, discipline, safety, mindfulness, and service); (3) intellectual development, including appropriate companions (puggala-sappāya) and the application of the Four Noble Truths; and (4) mental or spiritual development, aiming to foster an environment that cultivates inner peace and wisdom for practitioners within the context of an urban setting.