By Upatissa Pethiyagoda –

Dr. Upatissa Pethiyagoda

The recent happenings at the so-called “Pali and Buddhist University” are deeply disturbing. Even if this incident does not receive adequate public interest, in the midst of grievous existential threats, it is worthy of grave concern. Bestial conduct that passes as “Ragging” and the unearthing of huge heaps of Liquor empties is incendiary.

This should normally ignite public reaction and some delving through a very searching and substantial inquiry. That politics and religion do not mix stands eloquently proven.

The happenings in Ayatullah Iran, Taliban Afghanistan and Rohingya Myanmar, are powerful examples of consequent inhumane disasters.

Unearthing of huge heaps of Liquor empties

In our society too, there have been mistakes that have led us too to disaster. The disgusting behavior of the “Student Monks”, in reality, unshaven, long-haired goons, is a terrible slur on a religion that is rightfully proud of its long existence as a non-violent, non-coercive, supremely tolerant and

 merciful  and non-violent doctrine. It leaves no room for personal indiscipline or departures from moral rectitude. These are the standards laid down for mere lay-followers, and needless to say, more extensive and binding on the Bhikkhu Order (The Maha Sangha). The Order of Monks are beings who have voluntarily undertaken to eschew shallow joys. Thus to lead a life of total renunciation and commitment to a simple, meditative, self-improving way of life. The Vinaya Pitaka,  governing conduct of the Ordained and a portion of the Thripitaka lists no less than some 200 odd Rules of conduct for Bhikkus and Bhikkhunis. It is recorded that the Buddha, before his passing addressed his disciples, translated as “Behold, O Bhikkhus, these are my last words to you. All component things in this World are impermanent. They are subject to change. Go forth with diligence and each seek your own salvation”

In all the Dhamma records, discipline for laymen and Bhikkhus is a constant theme. Since entering the Order is explicitly voluntary and a free choice, there is no concept of enforced expulsion. Rather, a binding obligation of simplicity, dignified, restrained and exemplary conduct. This is why devotees display reverence for the robe, and honour the Maha Sangha by providing sustenance and shelter. 

One may be reminded that the very term “Sangha” means “The Homeless Ones”. Entering the Community of monks, and seeing the respect extended by trusting devotees, there can be no ambiguity about the compulsion of self- discipline. In its absence, all is lost.  

There is a dilemma here. Since a spirit of forgiveness and gentle mercy is what is implicit,what could one do? On the other hand, this group has violated the explicit requirement and in fact sullied their records and become positively “Dus-seela”. They have thereby forfeited their expectation of the respect and sustenance of devotees.

There are many monks of unquestionable nobility in our country, who manifest the qualities of dignity and exemplary behavior and zealously guard Sri Lanka’s position as an acknowledged leader for Theravada Buddhism. A bunch of  misguided youth, simply cannot be allowed to destroy the dignity of the Order and tarnish the image of Sri Lanka as a leader in a philosophy that the World is seeking in ever increasing numbers. This too cannot be compromised. 

There are increasing numbers, particularly in Western countries, who are attracted to learn about The Dhamma, and some to enter the order. Without offence to the excellent and exemplary monks that Sri Lanka is blessed with, these foreign entrants are of persons who have, after serious and committed study, (usually acquainted with other faiths), decided that the Dhamma is the best option to address their own problems and those of the contemporary World. As a consequence of this manifest conviction, and thoughtful absorption of the Buddha’s teaching, they tend to be persons of high intellectual merit. Nothing should happen to blemish their convictions and create doubts about their choice. This is precisely what the recent incidents might do.      

It a widespread and continuing crises that are drowning our nation, we do not need to create more self-made problems. The pervasive and generally corrosive and unhelpful intrusion of divisive and unsavory “politics” into religious discourse, is not acceptable. 

If anyone outside the artificial subset, “Sinhala Buddhist” were to point out truths, he would be readily vilified, by the idiot sector (lunatic fringe) who will react, in pretended horror. It is therefore up to this unreal political subst to intervene.   

The best action that could be recommended is to dismiss all of the Student “monks”. Any who have not participated in the vulgarity of misnamed “Ragging”, unruly conduct and boozing, could be re-admitted on an explicit promise of conforming to the dignity expected from members of the order of monks. A kind of “suspended sentence”.

In the longer term, serious attention should be given to the need  for institutions purported “training institutes” for Bhikkhus. It would be excellent if persons of the caliber of Ajahn Brahmavanso, can be persuaded to supplement our own carefully selected monks in in planning for the future. There are many monks of stature and erudition whose services should be sought. Ideally, an arrangement could be made to sent promising young aspirants to see what systems operate elsewhere. The concept of “Forest Hermitages” as has been established and nurtured by the likes of Ajahn Chah in Thailand cries out for emulation by us. Several such refuges are already in existence in Sri Lanka. These are potential nuclei and to serve as appropriate models   

When the SLFP of the time, resolved to “Confer University Status” on those impeccable and highly respected institutions, the Vidyodaya and Vidyalankara Pirivenas, the debacle was launched. In the hideous record of SWRD Bandaranaike’s nakedly political ambitions, the Pirivena Universities Act is second only to The Sinhala Only Act. He could certainly have foreseen the enormity of what crime was being done in the furtherance of transient political advantage. The Buddharakhithas of that time have logically spawned the Gnanasaras of today.