Development of Dhamma Scriptures and Sermon Forms in Lanna

Abstract

The development of sacred scriptures and preaching styles in the Lanna region reflects the connection between Buddhism and the local culture in Northern Thailand. Initially, scriptures were recorded in handwritten form on palm leaves and cloth, followed by translations of the Tripitaka from Pali to Lanna language to make the teachings more accessible. The use of art and illustrations in scriptures helped to explain the teachings to both monks and laypeople. Furthermore, the development of preaching styles in Lanna tailored to the local community involved using the Lanna language and simple expressions. This approach not only made the teachings of Buddhism more effective but also contributed to the transmission of cultural values and religious beliefs within the northern communities.