A study of ideology on the large Buddha images construction of in Thai society : a case study of Srisaket Province

Abstract

         This article Research aims to study the large Buddha images construction of in Buddhism, creating large Buddha statues in Thai society and the motto for building large Buddha statues in Srisaket Province. It is a qualitative research document analysis, compiled with opinions from in-depth interviews by experts. The results of the study found that : 1) The creation of the Buddha image occurred more than 600 years after the Lord Buddha passed away to nirvana. It is assumed that it occurred in the Indian art of Gandhara or Mathura art. As for the construction of a large Buddha image. It appeared in the Gandhara art period, including the large Buddha statues of Bamiyan, etc. 2) The creation of large Buddha statues in Thai society. It is an important phenomenon in the creation of large Buddha images that have appeared alongside Thai society throughout the ages. Especially in the Rattanakosin period, very large Buddha images were built and may be the largest of any era. Therefore, it is a reflection of the prosperity of Buddhism and also indicates the prosperity of the country in this era very well. 3) The motto for building large Buddha statues in Srisaket Province was found to be a motto that has been continued since the ancient and original, including being a medium for promoting Buddhism Psychological aspect, influence of Buddhist teachings, social value, historical value and economic tourism. This is considered a new belief that has changed in the construction of large Buddha statues today. But the general motto has a purpose. It is an accumulation of merit to be born in the era of Phra Sri Ariya and reaching nirvana. It is considered the highest wish of almost every Buddhist. As for Buddhist art beliefs, it was found that most of them went back to creating according to the original contemporary art style. The most popular include: Sukhothai art Mixed with local arts.