The School of Business and Communication Arts, University of Phayao, organized a Buddhist merit-making ceremony featuring the offering of Buddhist Lent candles, a Pha Pa (forest robe offering), alms, and a luncheon for monks at Buddha Utthayan Bhavana Khemakhun (Wat Maheyong Branch), Mae Na Ruea Subdistrict, Mueang Phayao District, Phayao Province, on 24 July 2026. The event was led by Assistant Professor Dr. Tanyathip Kharuhayothin, Dean of the School of Business and Communication Arts, together with the School's executives and personnel. The activity was organized to preserve Thailand's cherished Buddhist traditions, promote moral values and ethical conduct, enhance spiritual well-being among staff, and encourage the application of Buddhist principles in both daily life and professional practice.
During the event, participants took part in the ceremonial offering of Buddhist Lent candles, the Pha Pa robe offering, alms, and a luncheon for monks. The program also included a Dhamma sermon, meditation, and Buddhist mindfulness practice, providing participants with an opportunity to cultivate mindfulness, concentration, and inner peace. These fundamental principles contribute to ethical living and responsible professional conduct while fostering an atmosphere conducive to personal reflection and spiritual development.
On this occasion, Phra Ajarn Phongphanit Santacitto of Buddha Utthayan Bhavana Khemakhun (Wat Maheyong Branch) delivered a Dhamma sermon entitled "Morality, Concentration, Ethics, and the Seven Qualities of a Good Lay Buddhist." The sermon emphasized that morality (Sīla) serves as the foundation of righteous conduct by guiding one's physical actions, speech, and thoughts within the framework of virtue. Concentration (Samādhi), meanwhile, develops a disciplined and mindful mind capable of thoughtful reflection and sound judgment. When morality and concentration are cultivated together, they naturally give rise to ethical conduct characterized by honesty, responsibility, and a commitment to the common good in both personal life and the workplace.
The speaker also explained the Seven Qualities of a Good Lay Buddhist (Upāsaka Dhamma 7), which provide practical guidance for Buddhist householders. These principles include faith in the Triple Gem, observance of moral precepts, avoidance of irrational or superstitious beliefs, the accumulation of merit through genuine Buddhist practice, support for Buddhism, continuous study of the Dhamma, and regular self-development through Buddhist practice. Participants were further encouraged to apply the principles of the Four Sublime States of Mind (Brahmavihāra 4)—loving-kindness (Mettā), compassion (Karuṇā), sympathetic joy (Muditā), and equanimity (Upekkhā)—to their relationships with colleagues and others. These virtues help foster mutual understanding, collaboration, and a positive working environment.
The merit-making activity reinforced participants' awareness of the importance of cultivating moral values and ethical principles alongside professional development. It also reflected the School's commitment to preserving Thailand's cultural heritage and Buddhist traditions while promoting an organizational culture grounded in integrity and virtue. By encouraging personnel to integrate Buddhist teachings into their daily lives, professional responsibilities, and interactions within society, the initiative contributes to sustainable organizational development and supports the creation of stronger communities and a more harmonious society.
