BANGKOK, 3 June 2014 – Events to commemorate the life of His Holiness Somdet Phra Nyanasamvara, the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand who died shortly after his 100th birthday last year, continue to be organized in many quarters. Tributes have been organized by all sectors of Thai society since October 3rd 2013. Now Bang Kwang Central Prison is also participating in a commemoration of the life and work of His Holiness, by organizing the creation of 10 Dharma book zones for prisoners. With this project it’s hoped that during their stay, prisoners will gain greater access to Buddhist teachings, to better improve their self reliance and personal development.
Ten Dharma bookshelves have been filled with holy books of “Tripitaka” Buddhism. Various canons of scriptures were given to the prison by His Holiness Phra Sakayawongvisut, assistant abbot of Bowonniwet Vihara temple.
His Holiness Phra Sakayawongvisut gave a speech to the prisoners saying that people nowadays often build grand temples rather than actually create a better person of themselves with Dharma inside their heart. People come to monks pouring our their problems, but who can monks turn to when they themselves have a problem? That was the question posed by His Holiness. Books, he answered. Lord Buddha has left something very important for all people, which is his teachings, which are contained in the three books called “Tripitaka”. These books are a fine companion and it is a great opportunity for prisoners to spend time reading, and adopting a positive attitude while they are there.
Other recreational activities such as wall painting and playing football are also being held to allow prisoners to exercise and express positive emotions.
