In a recent interview on the Sathipattana YouTube channel, Yathiwara Esa engaged in a profound discussion with Venerable Pallekande Ratanasara Thero from the Vajiravansa sect of the Amarapura Chapter.
Q: What factors contribute to the notable resurgence of interest in Buddhism in the West? It is also reflected in the abundance of Buddhist literature in contemporary bookstores.
A: Many intellectuals worldwide, notably in the educated circles have embraced Buddhism, a resurgence dating back to the 16th century. Western invasions of India during this period led to the translation of Buddhist scriptures into European languages, notably German, fostering the spread of Buddhism. This dissemination resulted in the cultivation of numerous scholars who authored books, conducted research, and found profound joy in the teachings of Dhamma. The impact extended beyond Germany, reaching Poland, where a cadre of Buddhist scholars also emerged. Esteemed monks such as the Late Venerable Narada Thero of Vajiraramaya in Bambalapitiya, Venerable Walpola Rahula Thero, and Venerable Balangoda Ananda Maithraya Thero played pivotal roles by spreading the teachings of Buddhism in various countries. Subsequently, Venerable Kurunegala Piyatissa Thero and Medagama Vajiragnana Thero continued this tradition, contributing significantly to the European resurgence of Buddhism.
In various nations, the younger generation initially lacked awareness of Buddhism, leading lives reminiscent of the counterculture movement. Exposure to Dhamma discourses transformed their perspective, revealing the potential for a more meaningful existence through the principles of Buddhism. Consequently, Buddhist places of worship emerged, facilitating the rapid spread of Buddhism. The shift in Russia’s ruling system in 1992 marked a significant turning point, fostering widespread interest and acceptance of Buddhism. Even prior to this, clandestine study and practice of Buddhism were evident in Russia. Post-1992, a surge of public engagement in Buddhism occurred with many delving into meditation, authoring Russian-language Buddhist literature, and translating the Tripitaka.
Simultaneously, Buddhist monks in England, Canada, and America played a pivotal role in disseminating Buddhism and establishing monastic communities. Notably, the Mahayana Buddhism advocated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama gained prominence over Theravada Buddhism promoted by our monks. His Holiness the Dalai Lama, a revered global leader of Buddhists, extensively traveled and contributed significantly to the construction of Buddhist sanctuaries worldwide. The eloquent discourses of His Holiness, often charming and captivating, played a key role in popularising Mahayana rituals. Consequently, Western individuals, upon exposure to Buddhism and its rituals, embraced the philosophy, enriching their lives with its teachings.
Q: What is your perspective on the substantial impact made by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in promoting Buddhism in the West?
A: Four decades ago, during my student years, I first heard of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His arrival in India in 1959, opting for peace over conflict, exemplified his commitment to the Dhamma. Possessing profound insight, His Holiness delivered rich and enlightening Dhamma discourses, a testament to his extensive Buddhist education. His expertise extended beyond religious studies to encompass political science, economics, psychology, and sociology.
After coming to India, he continued his pursuit of Buddhist knowledge and earned global acclaim for his erudition. Notably, His Holiness transcends religious, racial, linguistic, and regional divides, exemplifying humility in diverse settings, whether in mosques or Catholic churches. His genuine embrace of different cultures fosters a sense of universal brotherhood.
In emulation of the Buddha’s teachings, His Holiness remains humble, never seeking superiority. This humility resonates with people worldwide, drawing crowds wherever he goes. I witnessed his discourse in Spain, and reports of his successful engagements in the United Kingdom, Russia, the USA, Canada, and Africa underscore his global impact. His meeting with Catholic priest Desmond Tutu in Africa, witnessed by a large gathering, exemplifies his role as a leader transcending religious boundaries. His Holiness emerges as a beloved and dignified Buddhist monk, embodying the principles of the Dhamma and earning widespread admiration as a true religious leader.
Q: Last December, a delegation of Sri Lankan Buddhist monks, led by Most Venerable Maha Nayaka and Anu Nayaka Theros, extended an invitation to His Holiness the Dalai Lama to visit Sri Lanka. Curiously, officials from the Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka promptly visited Malwathu Maha Nayaka Thero to vehemently protest the proposed visit, labeling His Holiness the Dalai Lama as a separatist. Is His Holiness truly a separatist, as portrayed by China?
A: The characterization of His Holiness the Dalai Lama as a separatist appears perplexing, considering his consistent commitment to nonviolence and peaceful resolution. His actions since seeking refuge in India refute any separatist inclination. Had he been a separatist, the opportunity to leverage external support for armed conflict against China was evident upon his arrival in India. However, he not only refrained from advocating war but actively discouraged his followers from engaging in it.
His Holiness engaged in diplomatic discussions with the Chinese Communist Party between 1950 and 1959, emphasizing the need for education on communism for Tibetans rather than pursuing separatist endeavours. His stance reflects a commitment to peaceful methods and a desire for China to acknowledge its actions. Despite historical affiliations, such as Tibet’s alignment with Russia in 1900, His Holiness never sought external assistance for armed conflict from countries like Canada, the USA, or Britain.
The visit of the Dalai Lama’s teacher to Sri Lanka, France, and England aimed at exploring support options, notably from Russia. However, political complexities, including opposition from figures like Joseph Starling, deterred the pursuit of asylum in Russia.
In essence, His Holiness the Dalai Lama consistently demonstrates a dedication to peace and has never espoused separatist sentiments.
Q: you attended the academic seminar at the University of Kelaniya on July 6, which was organized to commemorate the birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Following the event, Chinese Embassy representatives visited the University of Kelaniya to strongly object to the seminar that supported His Holiness the Dalai Lama. What is the Chinese Embassy’s objective of doing that?
A: Indeed, His Holiness the Dalai Lama stands as a preeminent global Buddhist leader, actively disseminating Buddhism on a worldwide scale. The Mahayana tradition, with its expansive reach, has been instrumental in introducing Buddhism to diverse communities. In Sri Lanka, the celebration of His Holiness’ birthday is marked with profound reverence, reflecting the deep respect for this influential figure by Sri Lankans.
I acknowledge China’s historical connection with Buddhism and its supportive role in Sri Lanka. But, it is essential to address the political tensions surrounding His Holiness, Tibet and China by China itself. The invasion of Tibet by China has created a complex situation, impacting the autonomy of the region. Sri Lanka, an independent nation following a middle path, faces economic challenges, and China is attempting to utilize this situation for its selfish gains.
However, concerns arise when such influence extends to interference in the religious affairs of another sovereign nation.
We value our religious harmony and I would like to urge China to refrain from meddling in our religious activities. The plea is not against the people of China but rather against perceived political overreach. It is crucial to preserve the freedom of religious practices in Sri Lanka without external interference. While recognizing the efficacy of China’s economic policies for its own development, concerns are raised about their compatibility with the diverse needs of other nations.
In light of these considerations, I strongly voice against China’s undue interference in the celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday in Sri Lanka. His Holiness has the right to freely travel the world. Such freedom should not be restricted by external forces.
Summary
In a recent interview on the Sathipattana YouTube channel, Venerable Pallekande Ratanasara Thero discussed the resurgence of interest in Buddhism in the West. He attributed this trend to the intellectual embrace of Buddhism by educated circles since the 16th century, fueled by translations of Buddhist scriptures during Western invasions of India. The impact extended globally, fostering scholars, authors, and practitioners who found joy in Dhamma teachings. The Thero also highlighted the significant role of figures like Venerable Narada Thero, Walpola Rahula Thero, and Balangoda Ananda Maithraya Thero, as well as the contributions of monks like Kurunegala Piyatissa Thero and Medagama Vajiragnana Thero in the European resurgence of Buddhism.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama has undertaken numerous global travels, delivering eloquent discourses that resonate with diverse audiences. Beyond his role as a spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama played a pivotal role in constructing Buddhist sanctuaries worldwide, contributing significantly to the global presence of Buddhism. The interview also touched upon the controversy surrounding His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s proposed visit to Sri Lanka, with Chinese Embassy representatives vehemently protesting. The Thero expressed perplexity over China’s portrayal of the Dalai Lama as a separatist, emphasizing the Dalai Lama’s commitment to nonviolence and peaceful resolution. The Thero urged China to refrain from interfering in Sri Lanka’s religious activities, emphasizing the importance of preserving religious harmony and the freedom of religious practices.
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