The thesis entitled “The Personality Development in Accordance with Sekhiyavatta (Code of Etiquette)” is of three objectives ; i.e. , (1) to study concept of personality development according to Western theories ; (2) to study Sekhiyavatta (Code of etiquette) in VinayaPitaka ; and (3) to apply the method of personality development in accordance with Sekhiyavatta to Thai society.
Results of the research are as following :
Personality indicates holistic characteristics of a person’s behavior which is important in life style both in daily and working life. Personality may manifest in the mode of pleasure, trustfulness, wisdom, and hospitality, etc. , more or less in any individual. Actually, personality would manifest in the posture of good manner, good social etiquette, the so-called “Good Social Etiquette” or “Good Characteristics” in Thai society, conforming to Sappurisadhamma – the Seven Virtures of a Gentleman.
Sekhiyavatta Code of Etiquette is monks’ disciplinary observation or practice laid down by Buddha. It comprises of seven groups, the first six groups are of ten items in number while the last seventh group is of fifteen items, thus in totality are seventy – five. When synthesized, they are formed into four groups, i.e. a group on dressing and postures, a group on taking food, a group on preaching and speaking, and a group on presentation of oneself in public place. Though Sekhiyavatta is meant for Buddhist monks yet it could be applied to Thai society. It is obvious that Chao Phraya PhrasadetSurendradhibodi, the late Minister of Education had written a book entitle “A Good Man’s Qualities” to suggest people especially children and youths to improve their personality. Later time, PhakavadeeUttamot wrote a book entitled “Good Social Etiquettes” for the young and students to observe. It is to be stated that Sekhiyavatta is suitable social etiquette or good personality in Thai society.
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