Development of a Buddhist Community Model to Promote to Compassionate Intergenerational Coexistence in Surin Province

Abstract

            This research article aimed to: (1) investigate the potential of a Buddhist community in promoting harmonious coexistence among three generations; (2) develop Buddhist-based activities that foster intergenerational harmony; and (3) develop a Buddhist model community that can be implemented and expanded in real community contexts. The study employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach integrated with a mixed-methods research design. The study was conducted in the community surrounding Wat Sawang Arom, Prasat District, Surin Province. The participants were selected through purposive sampling and consisted of 50 community members, including youth, working-age adults, and older adults, together with 10 key informants, comprising community leaders, administrators of community learning centers, Buddhist scholars, administrators of elderly schools, and public health academics. Research instruments included questionnaires, in-depth interview guides, and focus group discussion protocols. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis.

            The findings revealed that: (1) the Buddhist community possessed significant social and cultural capital, including the temple, community leaders, local sages, and community networks, which served as key mechanisms for strengthening relationships, mutual assistance, and compassionate coexistence among the three generations; (2) the development of Buddhist-based activities integrating Buddhist principles with community practices such as merit-making ceremonies, volunteer service, intergenerational learning activities, and moral and ethical development programs enhanced mutual understanding, unity, and compassion among youth, working-age adults, and older adults; and (3) a Buddhist model community was successfully developed, emphasizing participation from all sectors, the temple as the center of community development, the integration of Buddhist principles into daily life, and the establishment of sustainable community collaboration networks. The model is applicable to and can be replicated in other communities with similar contexts. Its implementation contributes to strengthening community resilience, improving the quality of life of people across all age groups, and promoting sustainable, peaceful, and mutually supportive coexistence.