PROMOTION OF LEGAL EDUCATION MANAGEMENT AMONG BUDDHIST MONKS AND NOVICES: A STUDY OF LAWS RELATED TO EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION FOR THE SANGHA AND THE POLICIES OF THE SUPREME SANGHA COUNCIL

Abstract

         This research aims to promote the study of law among Buddhist monks and novices, recognizing that, in addition to their obligation to observe the Vinaya discipline, they are also bound to comply with the laws of the state. This is especially pertinent for ecclesiastical officials, who are regarded as public officers under the Criminal Code, and thus require legal knowledge to perform their duties correctly. The objectives of the study are to examine the legal status of ecclesiastical officials under the Sangha Act B.E. 2505 (1962) and its amendments, review the policies of the Supreme Sangha Council, analyze the necessity and approaches to promoting legal education, and propose policy recommendations for educational development. The research employs a documentary method, analyzing relevant legislation, resolutions and announcements of the Supreme Sangha Council, regulations of Buddhist universities, and related studies to synthesize policy recommendations aligned with the contemporary monastic and societal context.

          Findings reveal that promoting legal education for monks and novices is an urgent necessity, particularly for fulfilling their duties, improving administrative management, and maintaining the image of the Sangha institution. While the Supreme Sangha Council’s policy direction clearly supports this initiative, practical limitations persist in terms of the number of institutions, budget, personnel, and curriculum flexibility. The new contribution of this study lies in integrating legal content with the Vinaya discipline and the religious practice context, such as temple property management and community dispute resolution. Key recommendations include establishing and designing law programs specifically for monks, adopting blended learning technologies to expand access, training instructors with expertise in both law and Buddhism, and organizing practical training relevant to Sangha affairs. These measures aim to equip monks and novices with sufficient legal competence to perform their duties correctly, transparently, and in ways that strengthen public trust in Buddhism sustainably.