Buddhism and Political Legitimacy: A Comparative Study of Thailand and Sri Lanka

Abstract

This research aimed to examine the role of Buddhism in constructing political legitimacy in Thailand, investigate the role of Buddhism in constructing political legitimacy in Sri Lanka, and compare the similarities and differences between the two countries. This qualitative study employed documentary research and a comparative approach. Data were collected from books, research articles, academic publications, historical documents, constitutions, laws, and other relevant sources. Content analysis and comparative analysis were conducted across four dimensions: Buddhist principles and ideals of political rulers, state–Sangha relations, Buddhism and national identity, and the recognition and protection of Buddhism through constitutions, laws, and state institutions. The findings revealed that Buddhism plays an important role in political legitimacy in both countries, although through different mechanisms. In Thailand, political legitimacy is characterized by the interconnectedness of Buddhist principles, the moral qualities of rulers, the monarchy, the Sangha, and the state. State–Sangha relations are relatively institutionalized and centralized. In Sri Lanka, Buddhism is more prominently associated with Sinhalese identity, nationhood, and the political role of Buddhist monks. The comparative findings demonstrate that, despite their shared Theravada Buddhist tradition, differences in historical contexts, state structures, forms of Sangha organization, and sociopolitical identities have resulted in distinct relationships between Buddhism and political legitimacy. The study therefore suggests that the political role of Buddhism should be understood in conjunction with the specific historical and institutional conditions of each country.