The Way of the Alms Bowl: The Buddharaksa Moral Community

This article explores the “Way of the Alms Bowl” as a Theravāda Buddhist practice within the Buddharaksa Moral Community in Sikhio District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Alms-round (piṇḍapāta) is not merely the livelihood of monks but a profound spiritual practice that fosters mindfulness, simplicity and the silent transmission of Dhamma. The study examines its ethical meaning, scriptural foundations and social implications, highlighting the role of alms-round in sustaining the relationship between monks and laypeople. A case study of Wat Pa Phu Saeng Thong Phiangka illustrates how daily alms-round continues as a living tradition, integrated into the “BOVORN” model (home–temple–school/state) through the Buddharaksa Project. The findings indicate that alms-round is a way of practicing Dhamma with enduring value for morality, cultural preservation, community bonds and ecological simplicity, underscoring its relevance in contemporary society.