Utility of Buddhist Teachings and Buddhist Social Work

This study explores the profound interconnection between Buddhist teachings and the practice of Buddhist social work, with a focused examination of primary sources from the Sutta Pitaka. Recognizing the rising interest in integrating spiritual and ethical dimensions into social work, the paper investigates how canonical Buddhist texts can serve as both philosophical and practical frameworks for compassionate, mindful service to society. The Sutta Pitaka, a foundational scripture in the Pāli Canon, contains numerous discourses that emphasize ethical behaviour, compassion, social harmony, and the alleviation of suffering. Central to this analysis are selected suttas that illuminate key doctrinal elements such as the Four Bases of Sympathy, the Six Unsurpassed Practices, the Four Right Efforts, and the foundational teachings of the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. These texts also address themes relevant to social well-being, including crime prevention, environmental stewardship, diligence, self-reliance, moral virtues, and practical skills and all of which carry significant implications for the theory and practice of Buddhist social work. By interpreting these texts through a contemporary lens, this paper argues that Buddhist social work is not a modern invention but a natural extension of early Buddhist ethical and social principles. The suttas serve not only as spiritual guidance but also as practical blueprints for creating compassionate, equitable, and sustainable communities. This synthesis of ancient wisdom and modern application supports the development of a distinctly Buddhist model of social work that is both culturally relevant and universally humane. It helps build a model of Buddhist social work that is spiritually informed, culturally sensitive, and socially transformative. The results of this study would benefit scholars, practitioners, and students by showing how Buddhist philosophy is not only spiritual but also socially transformative and providing tools and frameworks for more humane, ethical, and culturally attuned Buddhist social work.