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Journal of Letters

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

This research article aims to analyze the metaphors of happiness found in six books authored by Thai Buddhist monks, employing the frameworks of Conceptual Metaphor Theory and Metaphor Scenario. The findings reveal that monks conceptualize happiness through diverse metaphors with positive, neutral, and negative evaluative dimensions, with the most prominent being [HAPPINESS IS AN OBJECT], which is further elaborated into scenarios such as [TRUE HAPPINESS IS AN OBJECT: AN IDEAL ENTITY], [HAPPINESS IS AN OBJECT: A POSSESSION], and [HAPPINESS IS AN OBJECT: TRASH/UNWANTED/WORTHLESS MATTER]. Other metaphors include [HAPPINESS IS A VALUABLE ENTITY], [HAPPINESS IS A JOURNEY], [HAPPINESS IS A DANGEROUS ENTITY], and [HAPPINESS IS A PERSON]. These metaphorical uses reflect monks’ perspectives on happiness in Buddhist thought, emphasizing the distinction between worldly and spiritual happiness, corresponding to ordinary happiness and true happiness, while also suggesting that worldly happiness and suffering are inseparable, and that true happiness lies in detachment and the attainment of Nirvana. Overall, the study demonstrates that metaphors in monks’ writings are not only linguistic strategies to make abstract concepts more tangible but also essential tools for conveying Buddhist teachings, fostering profound understanding, and persuading readers to pursue the path leading to genuine and enduring happiness.

First Page

37

Last Page

70

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