The Construction of knowledge space in accordance with the teachiings of khruba chaiyawongsa pattana in karen community

Abstract

This qualitative research study examines the dynamics and contextual factors involved in creating knowledge spaces through the teachings of Khruba Chaiyawongsa Pattana (also known as Khruba Wong) in a migrant Karen community. The data was collected through document analysis and field observations using semi-structured interviews from 2021-2022. The study involved key informants such as monks, community leaders, a liaison (Taka), leaders of various groups, school administrators, teachers, children, youth, and relevant government officials. The Karen community is a unique religious group that settled in Thailand in 1970 to participate in merit-making activities with Khruba Wong. They created a transformative knowledge space within the community. Key components include the Karen people's beliefs, the establishment of the community, the Thai monarchy's visit in 1978, Khruba Wong's passing in 2000, recognition as Thailand's first five precepts village in 2015, local production, and homestay tourism. The knowledge space created through Khruba Wong's teachings was done through various practices: 1) It was an educational space for studying the Karen language. It explores the interaction between official state knowledge and community knowledge in constructing individual identities. 2) The ritual space of the sarong-changing ceremony honoring Khruba Wong involves negotiations with government agencies, the Karen community, and disciples. 3) Due to national policy, Thailand's first Five Precepts village required government and community negotiations. The promotion of tourism communities and OTOP products attracted tourists interested in experiencing the unique cultural traditions of the Khruba Wong-style Vegetarian Community. This led to the developing of community products for homestay tourism, driven by participation in the OTOP project, recognition through cultural tourism awards, and support from government policies to develop the tourism market.