ABSTRACT

This documentary research aims to study (1) Yakkha (giants) in Theravãda Buddhism scriptures, (2) Thai  arts and   (3) Yakkha ( Giants ) in Buddhism as  shown  in  Thai  Arts.

The results are found as follows

The giants in Theravada Buddhism scriptures are claimed in Winaipitaka, Suttantapitaka, Attakatha, and Deka. The giant is defined as inhuman animals which are born in low states of existence which consists of both good and bad action (Kamma). There are two kinds of giants: personal and social characteristics. The giants can not live alone, but they are governed by leaders. There are three levels of giants. They are Cãturmahãrãjikakãyika, demon lands, and beast lands. Each land is governed by King of  Cãturmahãrãjikakãyika in four directions.

Arts appear before the establishment of Buddhism in Thailand. They appear in the form of arts such as statues  in the temple, in the stupa, and in pagodas. These characteristics of Thai art work show the  faith on Buddhism. There are three types of arts. They are sculpture, architecture, and mural.

Yakkha  in Buddhism as  shown  in  Thai  arts  is   evey  part Thailand such as Thai art work from the central, the north, the northeast, and the southeast. The influence of giants has spread for a very long time as in archaeology from the period of Thawarawadee to the present. It is believed that the giants can prevent any hazard. Some giants are cruel, but the majority of giants want to behave well after listening to Dhamma from Buddha. Moreover, these giants have a very vital role for protecting Buddhism in many ways.