Sri Lanka, also known as the “pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is home to a unique and ancient tradition of Buddhism that has shaped the country’s culture, history, and society for over 2,500 years. Buddhism first arrived in Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE, brought by the Indian monk Mahinda, who was the son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka. Since then, Sri Lankan Buddhism has developed its own distinct characteristics, practices, and institutions, which have played a central role in the country’s history and culture.
The Early History of Buddhism in Sri Lanka
Buddhism first arrived in Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE, brought by the Indian monk Mahinda, who was the son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka. According to the Sri Lankan chronicles, Mahinda was sent to Sri Lanka by his father to spread Buddhism among the island’s inhabitants. He met with King Devanampiya Tissa and convinced him to embrace Buddhism, which led to the king’s conversion and the establishment of the first Buddhist monasteries in the country.
From the 3rd century BCE to the 12th century CE, Buddhism in Sri Lanka underwent a process of development and consolidation, during which time the country’s Buddhist institutions and traditions took shape. During this period, Sri Lanka became one of the major centers of Buddhism in the world, and the island’s monasteries, stupas, and temples became important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists from all over the world.
The Development of Theravada Buddhism in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is one of the few countries in the world where Theravada Buddhism has been the dominant form of Buddhism for over 2,000 years. Theravada Buddhism, also known as “The Teaching of the Elders,” is one of the oldest forms of Buddhism and is characterized by its emphasis on the preservation of the original teachings of the Buddha.
In the early centuries of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, the country’s monasteries were home to a diverse group of monks, who followed different schools of Buddhism and practiced different forms of meditation. However, over time, Theravada Buddhism emerged as the dominant form of Buddhism in the country, and the monasteries began to focus on the study and preservation of the Pali Canon, which is the early Buddhist texts written in Pali language.
Sri Lanka’s Contribution to Buddhist Scholarship and Literature
Sri Lanka has played an important role in the preservation and dissemination of Buddhism throughout the world. During the early centuries of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, the country’s monks and scholars made significant contributions to Buddhist scholarship, particularly in the areas of commentaries on the Pali canon and the compilation of Buddhist texts.
One of the most important figures in Sri Lankan Buddhism is the monk Buddhaghosa, who lived in the 5th century CE. He is best known for his commentaries on the Pali canon, which are still widely studied and respected today. His commentaries provide a detailed explanation of the teachings of the Pali canon and helped to establish Theravada Buddhism as the dominant form of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
The Role of Buddhism in Sri Lankan Society and Culture
Buddhism has played a central role in shaping Sri Lankan society and culture for over 2,500 years. From the earliest days of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, the monasteries have been important centers of learning, culture, and social welfare. The monks have provided education and health care to the people and have played a vital role in preserving the country’s
