An Analytical Study of Buddhist Principles Appearing in the Offering Ceremony of Sapao in Lampang Province

Abstract

The study titled has 2 aims: 1) to investigate the historical background of the Sapao offering and 2) to analyze the Buddhist principles embedded in this ceremonial practice. This research employs two research methodologies, namely qualitative research and documentary research.
The study findings reveal that:
1. The “Sapao Offering Ceremony” holds significance and beliefs among the people of Lampang, signifying the act of providing consumables to the monkhood through the offering ceremony by using the junk as alms. Symbolically, the boat represents a vessel for traveling great distances in the next incarnation, overcoming the Oka Vatta sòngsăăn, and reaching nibbana.
2. The Buddhist principles appearing in the ceremony encompass three aspects. Firstly, principle of Saddha, namely Karma Saddha, Vipaga Saddha, Karmasgatta Saddha, and Tathagatapodhi Saddha. Secondly, principle of Puññakiriyãvatthu 3, including giving, moral behavior, and practicing meditation. Thirdly, principle of Gratitude and Saraniyadhamma 6, involving the expression of gratitude through the body (Kaya karma), 2) speech (Vaji karma), 3) mind (Mano karma), 4) giving (Sadharana bhogi), 5) virtue (Sila samanyata), and 6) wisdom (Ditthi samanyata). These principles promote and preserve cultural heritage, ethical conduct, compassionate morality, benevolence, and harmonious ethical coexistence within society, contributing to overall well-being and tranquility.