Faith-Based Sustainability in Practice: An Ethnographic Study of the Asoke Buddhist Community in Thailand

Abstract

This research aims to identify and analyse the key factors underpinning the sustainability of Asoke faith-based communities in Thailand amidst social, political, and economic challenges. The primary focus is to explore the spiritual, social, and economic mechanisms contributing to the resilience of the Asoke community, positioning it as a distinctive model in the sustainability of faith-based organisations in Thailand. Employing a qualitative design with an ethnographic approach, data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. Thematic analysis was utilised to examine themes related to spiritual sustainability, economic resilience, and community governance.​ The main findings indicate that the sustainability of Asoke communities is not solely driven by alternative economic systems or communal social structures but is significantly influenced by ethical spiritual leadership, consistency in religious practices, and the successful cultivation of social trust amidst external pressures. These findings align with previous studies highlighting the role of Asoke Buddhist beliefs and practices in contributing to development at individual, community, and societal levels. The implications of this research suggest that the Asoke faith-based sustainability model can inspire other faith-based organizations and policymakers in constructing sustainable communities by integrating spiritual, social, and economic values.This study makes an original contribution by addressing a gap in the literature concerning the long-term sustainability of alternative Buddhist movements in Thailand, particularly the Asoke community, which has not been comprehensively examined in prior research.