BUDDHIST ECONOMY UNDER RAMA V: STATE PATRONAGE POLICY AND ITS IMPACT ON THE SANGHA

Abstract

During the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V, 1868-1910), Buddhism functioned both as the spiritual foundation of society and as a political instrument to consolidate the power of the Chakri dynasty. The king implemented various economic patronage policies for the Sangha, such as granting land, tax exemptions, financial support for the construction and renovation of temples, while also promulgating the Sangha Act of 1902 to institutionalize a unified management system. These policies enabled Buddhism to maintain its central role in social life, contributing to order, education, and community welfare. However, the close attachment to the state also led the Sangha to become increasingly dependent on the centralized mechanism, reducing its traditional autonomy. Overall, the economic–religious relationship under Rama V not only reinforced royal legitimacy but also left a significant legacy for the modernization of both Buddhism and the Thai nation.