Good Life According to Buddhadhamma: An Analytical Documentary Study

Abstract

This research article aimed to: 1) study the meaning and components of a good life according to Buddhist principles; 2) analyze the Buddhist teachings leading to a good life; and 3) synthesize guidelines for cultivating a good life based on Buddhist principles for people in the modern era. The research employed a qualitative approach using analytical documentary research. The conceptual framework was based on human development through the principles of the Threefold Training (Tri-sikkhā) and the Fourfold Development (Bhāvanā 4) proposed by Somdet Phra Buddhaghosacariya (P.A. Payutto). Primary sources consisted of the Thai Tipiṭaka published by Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, particularly the Dīghajāṇu Sutta and the Dhammāññū Sutta in the Aṅguttara Nikāya, Aṭṭhaka Nipāta. Secondary sources included Buddhadhamma (Expanded Edition) and the Dictionary of Buddhism (Compendium of Dhamma). Data were analyzed through content analysis and presented descriptively.

The findings revealed that: 1) a good life according to Buddhist principles is a holistic life developed in terms of physical, moral, mental, and intellectual aspects, enabling self-reliance, inner peace, and harmonious coexistence with others; 2) the Buddhist teachings leading to a good life can be classified into three levels of benefit: present benefit (diṭṭhadhammikattha), future benefit (samparāyikattha), and ultimate benefit (paramattha). Important principles include the four conditions conducive to present welfare, the Threefold Training, the Fourfold Development, and the Seven Qualities of a Good Person (sappurisadhamma); and 3) the guideline for cultivating a good life in the modern world is continuous holistic self-development, beginning with economic stability and positive social relationships, leading to morality, mental peace, and wisdom that realizes the truth of life. The body of knowledge derived from this research is the integration of the three levels of benefit with the four dimensions of human development as a framework for enhancing quality of life, education management, and human resource development in contemporary society.