Following the Buddha's Path: The Buddha's Life Story as the Model for Narrating the Lives of Phra Kechi Achan (Monks with Mystical Power) in Central Thailand

Authors

Saipan Puriwanchana

Publication Date

2011-01-01

Abstract

This article aims at studying the narratives of Phra Kechi Achan, (monks with mystical power) in central Thailand. Four monks' life narratives, two from the Vipassana group and two from the Vidayagom group, are used as case studies. The study reveals that the narratives of all monks follow the structure of the Buddha's life due to the Buddhist tradition of using the Buddha's life as a paradigm to compose religious persons' stories. However, the miraculous power of each monk is highlighted in his narrative. There is both miraculous power as found in the Buddhist canon and as influenced by Thai cultural beliefs and practices.

First Page

1

Last Page

20

Recommended Citation

Puriwanchana, Saipan (2011) "Following the Buddha's Path: The Buddha's Life Story as the Model for Narrating the Lives of Phra Kechi Achan (Monks with Mystical Power) in Central Thailand," Manusya, Journal of Humanities: Vol. 14: No. 19, Article 1.
Available at: https://digital.car.chula.ac.th/manusya/vol14/iss19/1