ABSTRACT

There are three objectives in this thesis: 1) to study the principles of harmony in Theravada Buddhism, 2) to analyze the successfulness in translating the principles of harmony into practice in society, and 3) to study method of application of the harmonious principles in guiding the present Thai society. This thesis is a qualitative research. The primary sources, Tipitaka, as well as the secondary sources, commentaries, sub-commentaries books and related researches were used.

The research significantly showed that each Buddhist principle is of essential aspect, bringing about harmony and social unity in various respects respectively. The harmonious principles are conditioned by patience, giving, compassion and together-awareness in solving the problems. Social happiness and well-being are definitely expected if all people really follow various principles of harmony.

The principles of harmony do not vary in any periods of time because they are based on Buddhist teachings. Thai Kings have been utilizing ten royal virtues, four bases of sympathy, qualities of a good man, virtues that protect the world, things leading never to decline but only to prosperity, duties of a universal king.

As regards the method in applying the mentioned harmonious principles in the present Thai society, the harmonious principle of family based on the four bases of sympathy along with six directions, patience and qualities of a good man is used to harmonize Thai society.