A STUDY OF THE ROLE OF PHRASOPHONPATTANODOM (SRILAO AGGAPAÑÑO) ON THE NATURAL FORESTCONSERVATION

Abstract

Thesis entitled "A Study of the Role of PhraSophonPattanom(SriLaksakakPornno) in Forest Resource Conservation" aimed (1) to study the Buddhist concept of forest resource conservation, to (2) explore the idea of PhraSophon Pattanom (Sri laoAggapanno) in preserving and restoring forest resources, and to (3) study the role of PhraSophonPattanom forest conservation and restoration. This research is a documentary research on which Buddhist scriptures (Tipitaka) are based including related academic documents and texts together with fieldwork for interview and participator observation.Findings indicated Buddhism and forest resources are closely related with concept of caring for nature believing that manis a part of nature and nature is important and necessary. In human life Buddhism teaches human beings to look at nature as a beautiful, pleasant environment and as one factor of happinesscontributing factor to the development, including looking at nature as a horrendous thing. It is clear that the Buddhahimself laid down different rules and regulations as shown in Vinayapitaka (Disciplinary codes) to prevent the destruction and exploitation of nature. There are also teachings related to forest such as gratitude, respect, veneration etc.