Abstract

                  The objectives of this research were (1) to study beliefs in Phi (ghost) according to the Theravāda perspective, (2) to study traditional beliefs in Phi Ta Khon of People at Dansai District, Loei, and (3) to study the value of Phi Ta Khon made by People at Dansai  District, Loei. This was the qualitative research with a purposive in-depth interview method. The sample group was 27 participants: 4 governmental officers, 6 monks in the Dansai district, 3 ritual performers, 14 local scholars who witnessed local amusements and entertainment. The data analysis was done with the descriptive analysis.

                  The result of this study was found in the following aspects.

                  1. Beliefs about ghosts in Buddhism that Buddhism has a concept and a focus on life after death. By describing the doctrine of transmigration is the first type is the landscape, especially the lower classes are suffering much worse this species can provide you with the  mystery man is to blame the devil imp Oappatika giant monsters and angels lower classes. These animals are called human nature. Concrete and abstract on the belief that spirits and angels. Which comes from faith. Spiritualism and religious affiliations until it became a tradition that combines spiritualism and beliefs about religious diversity. Which depends on the local and regional.

                  2. With regard to traditional beliefs in the Phi Ta Khon of people in Sai district, Phi Ta Khon was a rite that existed since prehistoric times reflecting social life that depended on agriculture and natural belief in ancestral spirits. It was believed if the ceremony was not performed. It would cause “Ka Lam” or something against tradition of the village and would lead to a variety of catastrophes. When Buddhism played its role in the agricultural societies, Phi Ta Khon was annexed as a part of the Boon Luang ritual.   

                  3. The value of the traditional Phi Ta Khon gave value to arts and culture. For arts, it helped local people create a Phi Ta Khon mask dressed of the Phi Ta Khon and local poetic songs. It also referred to traditional uniqueness. In social value, this Phi Ta Khon created social unity and harmony. It also gave to value to society in terms of economics, politics, and education. In religious aspect, Buddhism that the Dan Sai district people believed and followed local Buddhism or popular Buddhism stressing on Buddhism and its importance together with the pursuit of happiness and the maintenance of Buddhism. 

Download