The thesis entitled “The integration of Mangala Sutta as a base for self-development” consisted of two objectives. The study aimed: 1) to study concepts and theories on self-development and 2) to study Mangala Sutta as a base for self-development. The thesis used the mixed methodology methods between qualitative and documentary approaches.

From the study, it was found that self-development was when a person tried to improve and change oneself to be better and more appropriate in order to proceed activity and show behavior to meet the needs or the set goals. This was the way to develop one’s potential by oneself to be better bodily, mentally, emotionally and socially in order to be an efficient and useful member of the society. In order to develop oneself, one must: 1) Bāhusacca or great learning; to always study as much as possible in order to have more and broader knowledge, and to be open and always search for new knowledge, 2) Art principles; the cleverness in expressing oneself beautifully and complimentary. Physical art referred to a good adaptation in all circumstances and proper human relations, and 3) disciplines; the ability of self-control to perform accordingly to regulations and rules in order to be useful to oneself and society as a whole.

From the study on Mangala Sutta as a base for self-development, it was found that 1) the integration of Bāhusacca by training oneself to learn about sufficiency economy, 2) the integration of the principles of Art by training oneself to be skillful with experiences for occupation and applying the important skill in working, and 3) the integration of disciplines by adhering to disciplines in occupation with an emphasize on avoiding and abstaining from any wrong occupation, and always saving money.

Download