Pāli–Theravāda Review Journal (PTRJ)

An Analysis of the Role of Commentaries in Explaining the Buddha’s Words in the Tipiṭaka

Phrathepwacharsilaporn; Phra Mahanitit Yansiri, Phramaha Vachara Yanasuthi — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0700

This research article aims to (1) examine and analyze the roles and functions of the commentaries (Atthakathā) in explaining the Buddha’s teachings in the Tipiṭaka, particularly in terms of linguistic clarification, contextual explanation, and doctrinal interpretation according to the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, and (2) synthesize an approach and model for the systematic use of the commentaries to enhance the understanding of the Buddha’s teachings. This study employs a qualitative research design based primarily on documentary analysis of the Tipiṭaka, the Pāli commentaries, and relevant academic literature in the field of Theravāda Buddhist studies. The data consist of canonical texts and scholarly sources related to the interpretation of the Buddha’s teachings within the Theravāda tradition. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive analysis and content synthesis.

The research findings reveal that:

The commentaries play a crucial role in explaining the Buddha’s teachings in the Tipiṭaka by clarifying Pāli terminology, elucidating linguistic structures, and providing the contextual background of the discourses. These functions contribute to a clearer and more accurate understanding of the teachings, reduce interpretative ambiguity, and ensure consistency with the doctrinal intentions of the Theravāda tradition.
The use of the commentaries can be synthesized into a systematic model for understanding the Buddha’s teachings within the Theravāda framework. This model consists of linguistic clarification, contextual elaboration, doctrinal integration, and a Theravāda-oriented interpretative framework that emphasizes practical application and liberation from suffering. This synthesized model represents new knowledge that enhances the systematic and methodologically grounded study of the Tipiṭaka in contemporary academic contexts.

The Role of Commentaries in Resolving Doubts and Elucidating the Vinaya Pitaka: A Case Study of Sanghadisesa Rules

Phramaha Setthawut Vajirañãṇo (Pasuan) — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The Vinaya Pitaka serves as the fundamental foundation and the life of Buddhism. However, relying solely on the original Pali texts often presents challenges in interpretation due to the profundity of the language and evolving social contexts. Consequently, the Commentaries (Atthakatha), particularly the "Samantapasadika," have become indispensable tools for elucidating the Buddha's rulings. This academic article aims to investigate the role of the Commentaries in explaining, interpreting, and adjudicating offenses within the 13 "Sanghadisesa" training rules, which are grave offenses second only to Parajika.

The findings reveal that the Commentaries function as a crucial mechanism of "Buddhist Jurisprudence" in three main dimensions: 1) Defining the Scope of Actions: By clarifying terminology and specifying the constituent factors of offenses (Anga) to prevent ambiguity; 2) Judging Intention: By distinguishing between physical actions and psychological states (such as lust or volition); and 3) Establishing Precedents: By providing case studies and analogies to ensure clarity in practical application. In conclusion, the Commentaries are not merely supplementary texts but are essential instruments for maintaining accuracy and justice in Vinaya judgment, thereby ensuring the stability of the Monastic Order.

Buddhist Principles of Self-Conduct in Theravāda Buddhism and Contemporary Society

Asst.Prof. Dr.Krittiya Tumtong — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article aims to examine, analyze, and synthesize the Buddhist principles concerning self-conduct (self-discipline) in Theravāda Buddhism and to explain their role as an ethical framework applicable to contemporary society. The study employs documentary research based on the Pāli Canon (Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University edition), relevant commentaries, and authoritative texts in Theravāda Buddhist studies. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and conceptual synthesis.

The findings reveal that the principles of self-conduct in Theravāda Buddhism constitute a systematic and interrelated structure. The Five Precepts function as the foundation for regulating basic behavior; the Noble Eightfold Path represents a continuous process of self-development; the Seven Qualities of a Good Person (Sappurisa-dhamma) enhance moral maturity and personal quality; and the Conditions of Non-decline (Aparihāniya-dhamma) sustain social stability and harmony. These principles can be practically applied at multiple levels, including the individual, family, community, and society as a whole.

The new knowledge contribution of this article lies in the synthesis of the concept of self-conduct into an ethical model that conceptualizes self-conduct as an internal mechanism for sustainable social development. This model emphasizes inner human development as the foundation for social peace, stability, and sustainability in contemporary society.

Buddhist Perspectives on Women: Social Constraints and Spiritual Equality

Assoc. Prof.Manop Nakkanrian; Dr.Winyou Kinasen, Asst.Prof. Dr.Krittiya Tumtong — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0700

This article aims to analyze Buddhist perspectives on women from various perspectives, including the Pali scriptures, etymology and Dhamma principles. It finds that While Buddhism contains passages that criticize women, it fundamentally recognizes the equality of men and women in terms of mind, morality, and wisdom. It believes that both genders are comprised of the five aggregates and are subject to the same three characteristics and the law of karma. Women can practice celibacy, attain enlightenment, and attain arahantship, just like men, as reflected in the 73 Therīvaṭi. Furthermore, etymological studies reveal that the Pali-Sanskrit terms "itthi" and "puriso" reflect social values and gender perspectives. Meanwhile, modern thought suggests the use of the term "human being" to convey gender equality. Buddhist perspectives on women are based on wisdom and morality, viewing women as human beings with equal potential to escape suffering and create a just and dharma-based society.

Integrating Ultimate Truths from the Abhidhamma Pitaka to Innovate Buddhist Way of Life in Contemporary Thai Society

Phramaha Setthawut Vajirañãṇo (Pasuan) — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0700

This academic article aims to systematically analyze the Ultimate Truths (Paramattha-dhamma) in the Abhidhamma Pitaka and synthesize this knowledge to innovate a "Wisdom-based Buddhist Way of Life" suitable for contemporary Thai society. Amidst the prevailing context of "Polycrisis" and the rapid dynamics of Digital Disruption, which have not only impacted the economy but have drastically exacerbated psychological fragility and deepened structural conflicts at a spiritual level, the study reveals that these socio-psychological issues are fundamentally rooted in "Avijja" (Ignorance) or a lack of insight into the intricate mechanisms of consciousness (Citta) and mental factors (Cetasika). Specifically, the study highlights how unwholesome factors (Akusala Cetasika), such as Greed and Hatred, are continuously amplified by digital algorithms until they become a new norm.

Consequently, the article proposes a strategic model titled "Integrated Buddhist Way: Abhidhamma for the New Generation," comprising three key processes: Knowing (understanding mental structures), Awakening (mindfulness at the point of contact), and Creating (social contribution). This model transforms complex concepts of Cognitive Series (Vithi-citta) and Conditional Relations (Patthana) into practical skills for emotional intelligence and social ethics. This approach elevates Buddhist practice from conventional rituals to wisdom-oriented application based on causal insight, thereby establishing sustainable spiritual immunity for both individuals and society.

Buddhist Principles and the Building of Social Relationships

Phramaha Supawat Thanavuddho — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0700

This article aims to study Buddhist principles in relation to the building of social relationships. It highlights that maintaining positive interpersonal relationships is a fundamental factor in human life. Social development, cognitive processes, self-understanding, personal identity, career success, the discovery of life’s meaning, and mental health are all influenced by the quality of interpersonal relationships. Each individual is shaped by life experiences, resulting in differences in thoughts, beliefs, attitudes, and values. Therefore, establishing relationships between individuals requires an understanding of the factors influencing interpersonal relations in order to successfully build and sustain positive connections.

The article proposes that the development of social relationships can be enhanced through the application of Buddhist principles. Human relations can be cultivated through positive attitudes, goodwill, sincere intention, continuous learning, and practical application. Thus, human relations do not arise naturally but are both a science and an art developed through learning and practice.

From a Buddhist perspective, building social relationships should begin with cultivating a mind grounded in loving-kindness and goodwill toward others, which forms the foundation of genuine friendship. Love and compassion naturally generate mutual goodwill and deeper understanding. This article presents Buddhist teachings related to human relations, the role of spiritual friendship (kalyāṇamitta), the promotion of harmony, and peaceful coexistence in society as guidelines for developing effective interpersonal relationship skills in accordance with Buddhist principles.