Buddhist Integrated Asset Management In Temples By Officers Under The Criminal Code In Bueng Wichai Sub-District, Mueang District, Kalasin Province

Abstract

The objectives of this research are:  1. to study the issues related to asset management in temples under the Criminal Code; 2. to examine temple asset management by officers according to Buddhist principles; 3. to study Buddhist integrated asset management in temples by officers under the Criminal Code in Bueng Wichai Sub-district, Mueang District, Kalasin Province.  This qualitative research collected data through in-depth interviews with 25 individuals/monks and presented the findings descriptively. 

The research results are as follows:

Temple Asset Management under the Criminal Code: Management follows legal principles related to the duties of the Sangha, with clear guidelines. However, in practice, enforcement is inconsistent, and only certain cases are prosecuted. Nevertheless, modern management aligns with various supporting legal principles that aid the administrators. 

Temple Asset Management by Officers under Buddhist Principles: The abbot, being a state officer under the Criminal Code, has direct responsibility for temple assets. Any issues within the organization must be monitored and resolved. Monk conflicts arise due to a lack of understanding of the temple's context, with more emphasis on legal statutes than Buddhist disciplinary rules. 

Buddhist Integrated Asset Management in Temples by Officers under the Criminal Code in Bueng Wichai Sub-district, Mueang District, Kalasin Province: Asset management is categorized into two types: (1) Movable Assets: Management of temple items based on Buddhist principles, the Sangha Supreme Council of Thailand regulations, and legal principles; (2) Immovable Assets: Management integrates the Criminal Code with Buddhist disciplinary principles to facilitate asset management.