Preparing for Death in the Perspective of Phra PhromMongkhon (Thong Sirimongkhonlo)

Abstract

This academic article aims to study the preparation for death in the perspective of Phra Phrom Mongkhon (Thong Sirimongkalo) by collecting from various documents and from the author’s experience in caring for Phra Phrom Mongkhon. Phra Phrom Mongkhon’s practice emphasizes the development of Vipassana meditation according to the principles of the Four Foundations of Mindfulness: body, feeling, mind, and dharma. Phra Phrom Mongkhon teaches meditation by inserting Dhamma and perspectives on death and preparing to cope with death mindfully. There is a principle of considering death as part of the meditation subject, especially the consideration of the body, or contemplation of the body. The main point of the Dhamma teaching is to see that one’s body is subject to the law of the three characteristics: impermanence, suffering, and non-self. Therefore, the deterioration of the body is normal. In practicing Vipassana meditation, one must understand and see the truth according to the law of the three characteristics. When one truly sees this, it will be a foundation for developing better concentration. Therefore, mindfulness is the most important thing in preparing to cope with death with understanding and without fear.