By Ven. Horowpothane Sathindriya Thera –
“This Dhamma that I have discovered is deep, hard to see, hard to understand, peaceful and sublime, not within the sphere of reasoning, subtle, to be experienced by the wise. But this generation delights in adhesion, takes delight in adhesion, and rejoices in adhesion. For such a generation this state is hard to see, that is, specific conditionality, dependent origination. And this state too is hard to see, that is, the stilling of all formations, the relinquishment of all acquisitions, the destruction of craving, dispassion, cessation, Nibbana.”
“Surveying the world with the eye of a Buddha, the Blessed one saw beings with little dust in their eyes and with much dust in their eyes, with keen faculties and with dull faculties, with good qualities and with bad qualities, easy to teach and hard to teach, and a few who dwelt seeing blame and fear in the other world”
Above mentioned profound words of the Buddha which stated twenty-six centuries ago explicitly reveal and bring to light the authenticity and the purity of the Buddha-Dhamma. These words are more than enough to understand the essence of what the Buddha realised and compassionately encouraged us to practice.
For Buddhism, numerous interpretations and expositions have been given by foremost scholars and prominent intellectuals who have immensely studied Buddhism in the globe.
However, twenty-six centuries ago, DHAMMA-VINAYA is the exclusive and peculiar word the great Master, the Gotama Buddha has pronounced and proclaimed for the reality or the truth he founded.
Some scholars have characterised and distinguished the teachings of the Buddha as the way of life and philosophy. It is beyond modern philosophy and psychology.
It is the Path of Purification and Path of Freedom. Freedom from bondage to liberation. Freedom from cruelty to compassion. Freedom from misery to happiness. This is the essence and principle of Buddhism.
It is impossible to define and describe what Buddha said in few words. As a Buddha he has delivered innumerable discourses in his 45 years incumbency.
DHAMMA – the truth – is what he realised and pointed out as advice for all who want to get rid of suffering.
VINAYA- discipline- is what the Blessed One compassionately constituted as disciplinary codes and standards of behaviour for those of his followers who go forth from home life to take up the quest for release in greater resolution and enthusiasm.
In the present, so called Buddhist countries and born Buddhists wherever they live, even in abroad, they have added their own cultural aspects and practices with Buddhism.
Some cultural values and ethnic practices are acceptable and admirable. Some of them are controversial and inconsistent with what the Buddha said.
We are in the climax of the development of science and advancement of technology now. We call it is the New Millennium and Digital Age.
Specially, we are in a global village now. Whatever it happens in any part of the world will swiftly fly and spread all over the world in a nanosecond.
Our young generation is well equipped with the knowledge of modern science and well advanced in nano technology. When they curiously question and challenge us to find what exactly the great master the Buddha said. Now outdated rites and rituals are critically questioned and severely challenged by youth. If it is not compatible and agreeable with the true words of the Buddha, we are lost for words.
We should be wise and mindful when we perform some cultural rites and rituals in the name of Buddhism.
In Buddha Dhamma, generosity, morality, and practice of mindfulness are the key and paramount factors should be practiced for lay followers of the Buddha. Morality, tranquillity, and wisdom are the prime and leading qualities which monks and nuns (lifetime dedicated disciples of the Buddha) should practice. It is commendable that there are virtuous and exemplary monks and lay disciples are in our society, but they are silently and devotedly practice according to Buddha’s instructions.
Unfortunately, now Buddhism has been politicized and modified by some hypocritical politicians and monks who support corrupted politicians to make innocent citizens fool and mislead. It is completely contrary to what the Buddha said.
Unfortunately, most born Buddhists think and accept what these hypocrites do, but in Buddha-Dhamma there is no room at all for these blind faiths and beliefs.
Be wise to understand what the Buddha said and be honest to be pragmatic disciple of the Buddha.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious respiratory and vascular disease. It is currently an ongoing global pandemic. There are no proven vaccines or specific treatments for COVID-19 yet, though several are in development. Preventive measures are the only precautions at this high-risk situation. Magnitude of spreading and transmission is massive, unimaginable and unpredictable.
Selfishness is the prime and leading hindrance and impediment to this pandemic disease rapidly spreading all over the world. Everyone should be kind and compassionate.
Diligently follow the rules and guidelines and observe the advice given by health professionals.
In order to contain and mitigate this transmission none of them applied or performed any religious or mysterious activity in New Zealand and Australia, except following preventive measures.
India is the country which numerous mysterious performances are massively and extensively practiced but now they are in grave and critical situation.
Blessing ceremonies and performing religious activities would be helpful for mental health and psychological comforts but for virus or any other disease need to find a proper medical treatment.
Once the Buddha said:
“Bhikkhus, the mind is luminous, but it is defiled by adventitious defilements.”
We need to investigate ourselves and scrutinize ourselves. Introspection is the paramount factor in Buddha-Dhamma.
Be mindful of what you think, what you speak and what you do.
In Samyutta Nikaya, the connected Discourses of the Buddha, The Dhamma is defined thus:
“The Straight Way’ that path is called,
And ‘fearless’ is its destination.
The chariot is called ‘unrattling’,
Fitted with wheels of wholesome states.
“The sense of shame is its leaning board,
Mindfulness its upholstery;
I call the Dhamma the charioteer,
With right view running out in front.
“One who has such a vehicle-
Whether a man or a woman-
Has, by means of this vehicle,
Drawn close to Nibbana.”
We should endeavour to perform wholesome activities which our great spiritual teacher encouraged us to carry out and perform.
Wholesome deeds will pave the way to innermost peace and happiness.
May all beings be well and happy.
GATAM / November 7, 2020
Sri Lankan Buddhists are the most intolerant, superstitious, jealous and naive people I have ever met across 34 countries I traveled. They would worship any tree, clay thing, alien or politician for benefit. World Buddhists must steer clear of this intolerant tribe.
(This does not mean other Sri Lankans are vastly better.)
/
leelagemalli / November 7, 2020
Dear Ven. Horowpothane Sathindriya Thera,
.
Thanks very much for this aritcle. More of the kind of article would do more in the improvement of the common knowledge of the average in this country, but my worry, is how many would read the article on CT today ?
–
To tell you, I read your previous articles with a great interest. I have a greater respect on you the kind of intelligent buddhist monks in our home country, however, there is a larger portion of so called buddhist monks, that would easily be abused by predatory politicians of the day. The best of all example, incumbent high priest of Kelaniya Temple is one of the low level monks – became popular by that FAKE story based on ” a water snake body-carried FAKE relics” revealing that a great leader would be dawned to the nation …. remember.. the absurdity of the monk – was never criticised by MAIN stream media, on the command of the producer of the election-gimmick.
–
Minister of Health of current Regime (Rajapakshe Regime ii) , aka Apawithra Wannihamy, aka ….. this woman is not even capable of handling a hospital… so how can she be a the minister of health, amidst increasing threats of COVID.
/
old codger / November 8, 2020
LM
Ben. Sathindriya lives in Victoria, Australia. In Australia, it is safe for Buddhist monks to condemn idol worship. In SL, he would be lynched by the Mahanayakas.
/
leelagemalli / November 8, 2020
Dear OC,
–
I have read his articles before. And I also had some respect to Rev Hegoda Wippassi
until he decided to support Gotler… But Rev Sathindriya is the best among the few monks I know from SL., but I met myself them in abroad.
.
To tell you some monks are today turn business men, only difference is they still wear SANGA COSTUME while others in layman dress as our mafia boss is on… If CID would find them to be involved in Drug Trafficking, that wont make me surprise.::: I have lot more exp… about various monks… ( without my source of info, i would not share you any wrong views about monks in general)
:
I am thinking of visiting this monk when travelling to VICTORIA next year. Once I happened to come to know a monk in Zurich, Switzerland, but he was a supporter of SRIALNKEN Mafia Boss. And another I got to know in Rome and London few months ago are more or less like “Kotuwe Hamuduruwo Type”. Most of them travel to abroad these days are not knolwedgeble… I believe most of the them are just PINGUTHTHARAYAs. Going back to the days my mother then prepareed monthly alms to the temple living monks on monthly basis, I was compelled to beleive – we as born in to sinhala buddhism, must repsect them..
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leelagemalli / November 8, 2020
Dear OC,
.
see, how some journalists heart out today… I love the kind of journos…..
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2ScxGsB-ks
–
Do we have any good journalists left in the country today ?
/
SJ / November 9, 2020
OC
Buddhists do not worship the Buddha. They pay respect to him, and worship a whole array of Hindu gods.
I doubt if the Mahanayakas worship idols. Even if they do, it has to be in the closet.
This is a matter in which I agree with the late Soma Thero, who denounced such practices.
(His sense got clouded by parochialism in other matters.)
/
old codger / November 9, 2020
S.J,
“His sense got clouded by parochialism in other matters.”
Yes, Soma Hamuduruwo got side-tracked into demagoguery after a good start. Ven. Sathindriya is from the very same temple in Australia and sounds like Soma at the start of his career. I do hope he doesn’t get sidetracked.
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SJ / November 7, 2020
G
This is nonsense. You could have travelled to 134 countries even, but that does not mean that you understand even one society.
My personal experience is that the Sinhalese as individuals are a very kind, hospitable and generous folk.
What they practice is Hinduism that came with their ancestors.
*
FYT
Even Muslims indulge in astrology and witchcraft.
/
Eagle Eye / November 7, 2020
“They would worship any tree, clay thing”
—
Dumbo, Sinhala Buddhists do not worship any tree or any clay thing.
/
SJ / November 7, 2020
EE
Please tell me what Bodhi Puja is and Wha the SBs do in the Devales?
Is not worshipping any clay thing because the Buddha statues are made of concrete, ceramic or Plaster of Paris nowdays?
/
Eagle Eye / November 8, 2020
SJ,
I didn’t say Buddhists do not worship trees and statues. I said they do not worship ‘ANY’ tree or ‘ANY’ clay thing as suggested by GATAM.
Dumbos make this kind of sweeping statements without using their brain.
/
SJ / November 9, 2020
EE
Sweeping statements are not the preserve of dumbos.
Almost all of us are likely to make them when agitated.
/
old codger / November 8, 2020
Eagle,
Sinhala Buddhists not only worship trees but provide robes for them too. Real Buddhists in places like Korea don’t.
Only the much-maligned Muslims and Evangelists don’t worship idols.
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leelagemalli / November 8, 2020
EE
–
are u blind ? Or always add any counter comment not being able to realize the little ?
.
Almost every poya day, they go on worshing is STATUES… were you not blind, ….. even 10 year olds would not be silly to question the way you do….
.
Sinhalaya is fallen into tribal levels… thanks to Medamulala Rascals. Just go and check how many talishments re tied to BP Mahinda Rajaakshe s body… .
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a14455 / November 9, 2020
you do not understand what buddhist do while proclaiming your self to be a Buddhist.
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Mallaiyuran / November 9, 2020
You are right Eagle; in reality, it was the Tamil Buddhists owned the Tree in Anurathapura.
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Champa / November 7, 2020
GATAM
What is your religion, may I ask?
/
GATAM / November 8, 2020
I won’t tell you because it is not relevant but your tribal thinking suggests that you must be a Buddhist!
/
Champa / November 8, 2020
GATAM
Of course it is relevant.
Re: my religion, I am proud to say that I am a Sinhalese Buddhist.
Your first comment criticizing Buddhists shows your tribal thinking.
If you think you have a right to make a malicious statement against Buddhists, as a Buddhist, I also have a right to know what your religion is.
If you don’t have a religion, have a backbone and say it as it explains your malicious mind.
/
Champa / November 8, 2020
GATAM
If you think Sinhalese are ashamed of worshipping trees, you are mistaken.
Not only trees, we worship the sun and the earth too, for our existence is dependent on the sun, the earth and the trees. This is basic knowledge.
In ancient times, if we had to cut a tree, we would worship the tree and ask for forgiveness for destroying nature. I think the most of us still do it.
There is no other nation in the world who is connected with nature other than Sinhalese.
/
leelagemalli / November 8, 2020
Gatam,
.
I dont think it is right to brand anyone that believe invisible forces be branded as tribal thinkers….
:
I know there are good buddhists, that just believe what they had been taught under SRILANKEN BUDDHISM (buddhagama) … It is their thinking patterns.. just question as to why they continue believing that ” human milk is made out of mother s blood” which is just a myth as described in Jathaka kathas… The truth is milk glands produce milk and this is common to all mammalians. There are lot more that srilanken buddhagama adherents are tied with…. as said above, they should learn to see it beyond…. if you would question only, they start thinking bit differentl.. srilanken media men to be blamed for not having made any effort to improve the awareness of the general public…. please think about !
/
Simon / November 7, 2020
GATHAM: Your comment starting with “They would worship any tree, clay thing, alien or politician for benefit.” When you say “THEY”, are you referring only to “Buddhists”? Very strangely, in your travel across 34 countries, you noticed ONLY “Buddhists” who worship trees, etc…. Were you “blindfolded” and prevented by someone or “Volunterilly” ignored such other “Groups” belonging to other “Religions” who worship such inanimate objects for benefits? You never found any other “TRIBE” who is “intolerant, superstitious, jealous, and naive” other than this “Intolerant tribe” of Sri Lankan Buddhists in any of those “34” countries you traveled? A great “FINDING” and for us, ordinary Simons, Bandas, Appuhamys, Lebbes, and Karupiahs, “YOU” are more than a great “FINDING”. In keeping with your advice: “we will henceforth keep clear of that and all those tribes, including “YOU”. Thank you for the “ADVICE”. Long Live the most “Enlightened” GATHAM!.
/
GATAM / November 8, 2020
Sourmon, can you point to any Christian, Hindu or Muslim who throws pots into rivers and piss from helicopters with their religious beliefs to help save them from Corona?
If you missed the news about helicopter water spray solution to Corona, here it is!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8sknjT-CkI
/
Simon / November 8, 2020
GATHAM: Too many to write in a comment. I have not missed any of those. Even I witnessed the “Golukanda” water tank affair. Did you see that? My friend “ALL” of those “HOOKED” on the “FAITH” and “BELIEF SYSTEMS” perform every type of “RITUALS”. Those “SYSTEMS” are maintained by all “Religious Leaders” of all faiths for a very comfortable life. It is not confined only to “Sinhala Buddhists” as you “Believe”. That “Belief” is “IGNORANCE”.
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leelagemalli / November 8, 2020
Dear Simon Mahaththaya..
.
entire world is making every effort to be away from myths, but our ballige puthas would never able to able to relinquish it. All because Medamulana rascals are believed to be the gods of the society. If they would go on eating asuchi… people would simply go after the lies.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClPDXRZWK74
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leelagemalli / November 8, 2020
They the americans and other civilized nations pave the way SCIENCE to do the job, while poor countries like ours – being tied to MYTHs, make every effort to fall on fire from the frying pan.
:
Pot filled with Chanted Pirith by a FAKE man aka ELIANTHA BP WHITE is thrown to the river – would please them polluting the waters, but nothing would get us near to finding solutions to the COVID crisis.
:
Today the bitch s sons that have been promoting the kind of FRAUDSTERs.. including current PREMIER of the country; Mahinda Rajakashe is playing with people s lives.
:
As of today
– Sri Lanka
Coronavirus Cases:
13,419
Deaths:
34
–
Total ignorance of the PEOPLE paved the way IDIOTs to take over the rule andruin it ….
The damage TRUMP has made to AMERICA is much less than RAJAPAKSHES did to own nation, however, America proved ” CHARACTOR MATTERS- Decency Matters, Knowledge matters” while our absurdity in average masses (who are highly instrumental in bringing any idiots as leaders and ministers) grew in srilanka.
:
I now believe THOSE WHO WERE THE MASTERS to have CREATED easter sunday attack on 21 APril 2020. are the ones who lead the country today. I have no doubt, THEY RAJAPAKSHES along with MOST ABUSIVE Sirisena killed own people for their COME BACK.
/
Ferryman / November 8, 2020
Just because of a few, it is best not to extrapolate over the entire spectrum of Buddhists or any other group, for that matter. There are many in the silent majority who do not display their adherence publicly to the true philosophy, and just as the philosophy itself requires, calmly go their way.
It is in times of crisis that all these fervent prayers and idol worship results, as a throwback when our ancestors worshipped gods of thunder and lightning and every god of ” whatever”, because of fear. Now new forms of god have been instituted, so the people in fear, worship or revere, in the hope that something good will come. It is in the Nature of things that some percentage of any event or catastrophe will be favourable, and that is ascribed to divine intervention, while the ones that still remain unfavourable, are given various excuses to absolve the god. So in a bad storm, some will escape and then the devout say, “Thank God”, but those severely affected will just mourn.
So it is fear and hope that drives one to seek interventions, and the final situation is summed up as : Clutching at a straw.
It is NOT only in SL that people are mislead by delusions of external interventions.
See this : https://youtu.be/vyZpJX7Ww0M
/
SJ / November 9, 2020
F
I agree fully with you on “Just because of a few, it is best not to extrapolate over the entire spectrum of Buddhists or any other group, for that matter.”
But that is what is done on CT, page after page!
/
Ferryman / November 9, 2020
True.
Let us hope, never give up, that someday things will change. Change is the essence of evolution.
Rather than unconsciously delighting in the gratification of judging others, and personal criticism, you may let your reactions and judgments and statements, help you achieve greater self-understanding by listening—and accordingly, reach greater happiness and success.
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SJ / November 9, 2020
Change is the essence of evolution, I agree, with a qualifier– but not necessarily for the better.
Re your other interesting suggestion, don’t you think that often one sees in the conduct of others a reflection of one’s own attitudes?
/
soma / November 9, 2020
GATAM
Tree and idol worshipping has a benefit.
It will help stinking Allah worshippers clear away from our midst.
In addition to being intolerant, superstitious, jealous and naive they have yet another serious problem.
They feel vomitish when they see an Allah worshipper.
–
Soma
/
soma / November 9, 2020
GATAM
Tree and idol worshipping has a benefit.
It will help stinking Allah worshippers clear away from our midst.
In addition to being intolerant, superstitious, jealous and naive they have yet another serious problem.
They feel vomitish when they see an Allah worshipper.
–
Soma
/
Lasantha Pethiyagoda / November 7, 2020
Mythology and superstition have been very successfully exploited by the Sri Lankan ruling class in cahoots with the major industrialists for many decades now. Although there are now 24 hour “Buddhist” channels on radio and TV, Buddhist practice is at an all-time low. It is in this backdrop, that the minister of health, who leads a body of professionals steeped in scientific study (ie western medicine and allied sciences) who openly and blatantly attempts to fool the gullible masses that pots of water and plastic thrown in rivers will destroy the covid-19 monster. It demonstrates the lengths these desperate individuals would go to keep the people roundly cheated.
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Ajith / November 7, 2020
Most of our people are like herd of Sheep’s just believe whatever said by Cheaters, fake patriots and fake propagandist’s. They never read or understand about what Lord Buddha or Lord Shiva or Lord Allah or Lord Jesus taught. all the religions or all the Lords of our religions are not native to this island. It is sad whatever the level of education they had, they don’t analyse whether this fake patriots are right or wrong. It is sad that majority of Buddhist Monks in this island are racists and support the discrimination of innocent civilians by race, language and religion.
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Eagle Eye / November 7, 2020
This comment was removed by a moderator because it didn’t abide by our Comment policy.
For more detail see our Comment policy https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/comments-policy-2
/
Simon / November 7, 2020
Ajith: According to “GATHAM” (read his comment above) “Most of our people” you refer are classified as “Sinhala Buddhists”. Do you agree? This is “Gotham’s” “FINDINGS” after traveling to “34” countries. A very “Rear” finding. Isn’t it? This could be his (GOTHAM) presentation for his “Ph.D.”
/
Ajith / November 9, 2020
Simon,
I read his comment. I think he refers to Sinhala Buddhists because the article is about the Sinhala Buddhists but he also mention that others are the same. “Most of our people” referred by me is about “Srilankans”.
/
Eagle Eye / November 8, 2020
Ajith,
Buddhist monks are considered as racists by racist separatists because they:
• did not allow them to grab North East of the country to create a separate State based on the bogus claim ‘Traditional Homeland’,
• blocked the introduction of a new constitution that change the Unitary State and create a confederation of nine units,
• opposed the merger of North and East,
• opposed the destruction of Sinhala Buddhist heritage sites in North and East etc.
—
“Buddhist Monks in this island are racists”
/
Ajith / November 8, 2020
You proved you are racist. Are you saying the writer Monk is a racist?
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rj1952 / November 7, 2020
Evee
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rj1952 / November 7, 2020
Even since the dawning of the 20rh century there have been no sincere true Buddhist s to preach the philosophy.
@
The present set of mangy flea ridden parasite morons including the laege
/
SJ / November 7, 2020
rj****
Do not make sweeping statements like: “Even since the dawning of the 20rh century there have been no sincere true Buddhist s to preach the philosophy.”
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sitrep24 / November 7, 2020
What about those criminal people who citing pseudo science/false claims with no scientific evidence to support their false claims are illegally ceasing the bodies of Muslim and Christian covid 19 victims to cremate them without the permission of their families and not allowing them to conduct final rites of their loved ones by allowing for burials according to WHO guidelines ?? Are they good buddhists??
May the Lord of Jesus Christ destroy with a humiliating destruction a criminal people and their supporters as He dealt with foolish pagans aforetime.
/
Eagle Eye / November 7, 2020
sitrep24,
During a pandemic irrespective of the religion of the person, all the people have to follow the rules laid down by the Government based on the advice of health officials. WHO has given guidelines but the Government decides the most suitable method.
Government cannot allow people to do things according to their whims and fancies during a pandemic.
/
GATAM / November 8, 2020
One such rule is – throw pots into rivers to save you from Corona. This is a contiuning plan to promote clay for everything by Mr “Miris Kudu”.
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sitrep24 / November 9, 2020
Listen carefully eagle no brain, idol worshiping ignorant pagans should know their place before they address monotheists. are you expecting me to explain to a low life pagan like you why it is a human rite to accommodate citizens requests for final rites as every other country has done ? you think I expect an ignorant pagan like you who worships a statue of a dead man who ate human flesh to understand what respect for mankind is ? you think I expect basic human decency from ignorant peasants whose highest achievement is that their great great grandmother slept with a lion ? lol, how sad the peasants living in a backward third world country/of these peasants who live abroad who don’t have enough food to sustain themselves but they find peace in giving what little they have to monks who are nothing but lowlife shit for brain child molesting thugs. now we can discuss what logic there is in devoting worship to a heretic hindu who abandoned his family and is reported to not have knowledge to the level to know he was eating human flesh and he died 1000s of years ago. The affairs of pagans who worship idols they make with their own hands is in nothing but perpetual loss. Coming soon; sigiriya, brought to you by the ccp.
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SJ / November 9, 2020
“…idol worshiping ignorant pagans should know their place before they address monotheists.”
What makes monotheists any wiser than pagans?
Have you considered the possibility that if there can be God as opposed to no God, why should it be only one God?
If it is good to worship, one should have a choice between any one or several. (The ideal choice will be none.)
*
I have said this before:
This being called God has a weird sense if humor to reveal Itself/Herself/Himself to humans in a variety of ways and watch the fun when they kill each other in Its/Her/His name.
/
Ferryman / November 8, 2020
Dear Sitrep 24.
May I remind one of Christian Charity on behalf of the criminal people of SL.
Bible Matthew 18:21, 22. Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?”
Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven.”
/
Champa / November 7, 2020
Eliyantha White fake drama,
Kundalini spiritual power drama and,
the Pot drama further proves that Rajapaksas are not Buddhists. Their attempt to mislead Sinhalese Buddhists with such non-Buddhist activities is a great insult to Lord Buddha’s teachings.
Eliyantha White was seen wearing a “mask” when practicing the pot throwing Hindu ritual!
I guess the “covered pots” also symbolizes the importance of “wearing masks!”
In Hinduism, Kundalini is said to be the inner fire which is curled like a serpent at the root of your spine, your coccyx, your tailbone, in a triangle. Awakening the Kundalini is awakening the hidden fire in your body and channeling it upwards via your spine by practicing yoga, such as pranayama or dhyana, which may make you transcendent.
The naked yogis, Nighantus in India have to awaken Kundalini to keep their naked bodies warm in cold climates.
In Christianity, Kundalini is called incendium amoris.
Throwing kundas (pots) to the river is related to Hinduism, not Buddhism.
Awakening the Kundalini is the stark opposite of quieting the mind and body, taught by Lord Buddha.
I guess, the government is trying to “defeat” their “fake” second corona wave by attributing Kundalini shakti to Eliyantha White. Needless to say, this is an insult to the sane minds of Buddhists in Sri Lanka.
/
Eagle Eye / November 7, 2020
“to be experienced by the wise”
—
Could this be the reason why majority of people in the land where Gauthama Buddha was born are followers of a religion full of rituals and Gods with mysterious powers without following Buddha’s teachings?
/
Champa / November 7, 2020
Coronavirus is easy to understand through Buddhism.
Lord Buddha preached about 5 fundamental elements of the world, i.e. Patavi (solid materials such as rocks, soil, minerals), Apo (water), Thejo (fire), Vayo (air) and Bhootho (sky or spirit).
Reciting Ratana Sutta can control the Vayo & Bhootho elements which helps purify the air.
Human body is made of;
(i)Apo (watery elements in your body such as saliva, mucus, urine, sweat, etc.),
(ii)Thejo (your body heat which goes high & low) and
(iii) Vayo (your breathing, and the air blows in your body upward, downward, through your limbs).
In order to fight diseases, which are natural phenomena,
a)according to Buddhism, you need to calm your mind through meditation, and
b)according to Sinhalese Medicine, you need to heal your body by consuming correct food to balance the above 3-elements.
In the case of COVID-19, it is the Vayo (air) element which is disturbed in your body which makes you cough, sneeze and have lung problems.
As the diseases related to Vayo (air) are contagious, our Sinhalese ancestors practiced self-quarantine even thousands of years ago.
In order to protect you from COVID-19, you need to control outer air which touches your body by wearing a mask and balance the inner air by taking warm herbal drinks.
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Lanka Canuck / November 7, 2020
Champa,
PanchaBhootas, is a group of five basic elements, which, according to Hinduism, is the basis of all cosmic creation. EARTH (Bhumi), WATER (Jalam), AIR (Vaayu), FIRE (Agni), and SPACE (Aakash). Pancha Boothas are kept in a certain balance in the Universe and in the human body. The variation in this balance ends in natural disasters, and diseases in the body.
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Champa / November 8, 2020
Lanka Canuck
I used the word Bhootha or Bhuta (fears) in place of “Dhathu” (element), not to mix up with “relics” which are also called “Dhathu.”
The 5 elements which should otherwise be called as “Patavi Dhathu”, “Apo Dhathu”, “Thejo Dhathu”, “Vayo Dhatu” and “unseen spirits, Bhuthas.”
In Buddhism, when we transfer merits, we transfer them to Devas, Bhuthas and Humans.
When the city Visala was plagued by a famine, disease and unseen spirits (Bhutas), Lord Buddha instructed Ananda Thero to chant Pirith which is called Ratana Sutta.
Some Buddhist scholars drop Bhuthas from the 5 elements and only talk about 4 elements as the unseen spirit is not recognized as an element.
As of Hinduism, it has no teacher, while there have been many Buddhas in the past who taught the same, and there will be many in the future too.
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Lanka Canuck / November 8, 2020
In the Hindu concept which Precedes Buddhism, PanchaBhootas (Pancha is five, Bhootas means elements) are EARTH (Bhumi), WATER (Jalam), AIR (Vaayu), FIRE (Agni), and SPACE (Aakash). The cosmic creation (entire universe) is made up of these 5 elements. I believe in Buddhism they talk about only 4 elements, they have dropped SPACE (Aakash) which actually is the largest part of the universe. Even an atom consists largely of space.
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Champa / November 8, 2020
Lanka Canuck
You cannot claim that the Hindu concept precedes Buddhism when the origin of Hinduism or its teacher is not known.
Re: the rest of your comment, please see my reply above and the subsequent comment explaining Bhuta, below.
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Lanka Canuck / November 8, 2020
Champa,
Looks like your learning and research are extremely narrow and in one direction (biased/bigoted), unable to comprehend or digest other views. First, come out from your ignorance by doing a proper research without any prejudice.
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Champa / November 8, 2020
Lanka Canuck
What are you talking about? Hinduism? I have done enough research but I still couldn’t find the origin of Hinduism or its teacher. You know it is not my fault.
If you know the origin of Hinduism, please tell me.
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Champa / November 8, 2020
Lanka Canuck
Oh…. I noticed it only now.
In the first line, within brackets it should contain the word “not as” which should read as;
“I used the word Bootha or Bhuta (not as fears) in place “Dhatu” (element), not to mix with relics………..
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SJ / November 7, 2020
Corono Virus Buddhism sounds rather like Sinhala Ayuyrvedic Buddhism.
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old codger / November 8, 2020
SJ,
Basically, Koththamalli and bodhi pooja will cure anything.
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SJ / November 8, 2020
OC
I have tried Kothamalli: it worked better than patent medicine for a few ailments.
I have yet to try the other.
Now that you say, I am tempted.
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Native Vedda / November 9, 2020
OC & SJ
–
“Basically, Koththamalli and bodhi pooja will cure anything.”
–
The Single handed Archeologist par excellence Prof Raj Somadeva believes even if Covid 19 is cured it’s effect could last forever, could cause Parkinson Disease.
–
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Champa / November 8, 2020
SJ
Yes, Buddhism and Sinhalese medicine are inextricably intertwined.
Buddhism teaches you to live according to nature, natural laws and natural order of things while Sinhalese medicine helps you to maintain the balance between the natural environment and the human body.
About Ayurveda; there is a difference between traditional Sinhala medicinal system and Indian Ayurvedic system.
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Lanka Canuck / November 8, 2020
***there is a difference between traditional Sinhala medicinal system and Indian Ayurvedic system***
Could you please let us know what these differences are (with reference from any authentic source).
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Lanka Canuck / November 8, 2020
SJ,
Ayurvedic Medicine is an oldest medical system in the world (over 5000 years). I have spoken to a few (actually 2) Hela Veda expert physicians in Sri Lanka and they were talking about how the human body balance Saptha Dhatu. When I checked in the net, it is nothing but the Ayur Veda body balance. When the concepts and theories of Ayur Veda is translated into Sinhala it becomes Hela Veda. Herbal steam baths Vashpa Swedha and Ushma Swedha are copied as it is from Ayur Veda into Hela Veda. The same herbs, plants, roots, flowers, fruits, vegetables, etc. that are used to make Ayur Veda medicines Kasaya, gulika (tablets), Asava, Arishta, etc. are also used by Hela Veda. The traditional Sinhala medicinal system (Hela Veda) is nothing but a carbon copy of the Indian Ayur Veda system. The problem is they do not want to accept the fact that they copied it (translated into Sinhala).
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Champa / November 9, 2020
Lanka Canuck
Saptha Dhatu concept is Indian.
We follow Ravana’s medicinal system which is unique to ancient Lanka.
Please tell me who invented Indian medicinal system. They are the people who copied Sinhala medicinal system and gave a new name.
There is nothing called Hela Veda. It is Sinhala Vedakama.
Do you know the origin of the word “Veda?” Indians think it is their word.
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Lanka Canuck / November 9, 2020
Raavana is nothing but Ramayana Myth. There is a Raavana cult among a few Sinhala-Buddhist nut cases. They say, the ancient Sinhala people (4000 years BCE) have developed a highly advance civilization complete with airplanes, nuclear energy, advanced medicine, etc. All Indo-Aryan languages (including Pali, Sanskrit) are claimed to be derived from Sinhala by the Raavana cult. Tele Drama programs, plays, novels and forth-coming films are minting money using the Raavana Myth. The “Hela Suvaya” vedakama (Sinhala vedakama) is also mentioned as from Raavana period. The Sri Lankan Raavana myth has captured the imagination of the Sinhalese very effectively, they are promoting the idea of strong Ramayana tradition in the island.
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Champa / November 10, 2020
Lanka Canuck
We have our own history about Ravana that we have never talked about.
The myth is Rama whose existence was never proved.
Tell me, who wrote Rig Veda?
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SJ / November 8, 2020
C & LC
Like the difference between Buddhism and Sinhala Buddhism I guess!
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SJ / November 9, 2020
LC
It is hard to ascertain the age of Ayurveda. Nothing was written until a few centuries before Christ as Sanskrit had a long oral tradition.
Any folk medicine is as old as the human society where it developed.
Ayurveda, contrary to claims of mysticism, evolved from folk medicine of different parts of the sub-continent.
According to Wikipedia:
“The Charaka Samhita is believed to have arisen around 400-200 BCE. It is felt to be one of the oldest and the most important ancient authoritative writings on Ayurveda.”
I am inclined to accept it.
*
The Chinese medical system as known today has records dating back to around that time.
*
I found this in https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/72/2/339/4729391 (The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition)
“Of the 10 top-selling herbal dietary supplements in the United States today, 7 were used by Native Americans”
Africa and Australia had their various systems that served the people well. Theirs were oral traditions too.
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Native Vedda / November 9, 2020
SJ
–
Actually the Chinese Ginseng which was recorded in Shen-Nung Pharmacopoeia as early as 196 AD or before was popular among many western countries until Viagra was invented in the 1980s.
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Would this point help you to further your point?
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Stanley / November 10, 2020
‘Would this point help you to further your point?’
.
Only if he hoists his sarong. I have never read such a load of nonsense.
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Native Vedda / November 10, 2020
Stanley
–
“Only if he hoists his sarong.”
–
When the Durians Fall Down, the Sarongs Go Up – Malay quote
He needs some durians.
–
What goes up must also come down –
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GATAM / November 8, 2020
Champ, why don’t you turn all hospitals into meditation centres. But please have hospitals for non-Buddhists.
No wonder all injections you had were made in Christian and Hindu countries. If the world believed nonsense it will be still in the Stone Age like SL.
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Champa / November 8, 2020
GATAM
Oh, I pity you a lot, man.
For your information, the world’s first nursing homes, inspired by Buddhism, were built by Sinhalese King Pandukabhaya in the Anuradhapura era.
The world believes that the 13X13 patient rooms were first introduced by our kings.
We are the first to introduce steam baths and toilets to the world.
World’s first surgical operations were done by our kings (King Buddhadasa).
The archaeological ruins of the layout of the Mihintala hospital which was either built or renovated by King Sena I in the 9th Century is still visible.
Needless to say, the concept of injections also originated from ancient Lanka.
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Lanka Canuck / November 8, 2020
Any unbiased authentic source to verify the above. Many of the above looks like concocted stories from thin air or misinterpreted by charlatans and pseudo historians/archeologists. Why the world is not aware of all these wonders? Why such people cannot even make a razor blade or push bicycle now (bring everything from outside)?
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Champa / November 9, 2020
Lanka Canuck
Of course you can check. The Archaeological Department has all the evidence. Some of the ruins you can see by yourself.
The world is aware of these. The only thing is we don’t make an income out of our archaeological ruins. So they are hidden from those who are not interested in history.
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old codger / November 9, 2020
Champa,
Hard evidence please? Credible sources ?
At the very least, have any used 2000 year old syringes been found ?
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Lanka Canuck / November 9, 2020
OC,
This can be Champa (identical utterings),
https://youtu.be/mQ0KWNwXwuU
https://youtu.be/m-uXfkERnIA
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old codger / November 10, 2020
L.C,
Well, she quacks like Champa. We must find out if she walks and swims like Champa too.
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Champa / November 11, 2020
old codger
I don’t quack like you. All my comments are supported with reason, logic and evidence.
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old codger / November 12, 2020
Champa,
Quack-like-a-duck definitions
(simile) To appear to be exactly what one is. If it quacks like a duck, it’s a duck. verb.
http://www.yourdictionary.com › quack-li…
QUACK-LIKE-A-DUCK – YourDictionary
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SJ / November 9, 2020
OC
All the used syringe needles went to China for use in acupuncture.
So you have to try there.
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Champa / November 10, 2020
Old Codger
We had many traditional therapeutic systems such as herbal wooden tub bath, vasthi, nasal, emesis and many other therapies you have never heard of!
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old codger / November 10, 2020
Champa,
Please answer the question.
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Champa / November 10, 2020
old codger
Your question regarding syringes?
Simple. Our ancient Sinhalese have used “ivory syringes.” One such syringe found in Sri Lanka by the British is exhibited in their Science Museum in London.
Many ancient 4th Century surgical tools such as scalpel blades, forceps, pairs of scissors, spoons were found in our ancient hospital ruins. Our ancient microbalance is believed to be the oldest in the world.
What is funny is, many of the surgical tools and other medical equipment mentioned in “Susrutha Sanhinda” (which India claims theirs) were found “in Sri Lanka.” They were never found in India!!!! It seems that our Kings and ancestors have used 121 such tools in surgical and non-surgical operations, which are extremely similar to the tools used in today’s Western medicinal system. Many of such tools are yet to be found.
My biggest worry is Rajapaksas’ treachery to sell our archaeological lands to American companies before we have done further excavations in our ancient history.
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old codger / November 11, 2020
Champa,
This “ivory syringe” you mention is an enema syringe from the 18th century . Hardly ancient, and nothing new at the time.
https://images.theconversation.com/files/39557/original/vkyd7qt3-1390307409.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip
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Champa / November 11, 2020
old codger
Sinhalese were the first to introduce syringes to the world. The British have found only one which they say is from the “18th Century.” However, they failed to find out who used them in the “18th Century.” We have been using ivory from the beginning of our civilization.
Do you know our ancestors had a method to remove blood from the body?
As I said, our archaeological excavations are incomplete. So far, we have done only 10% . As mentioned above, we have found many ancient surgical tools that go back to the 4th Century. When compared to advanced surgical tools that have been found, ivory syringes are only simple instruments.
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old codger / November 11, 2020
Champa,
Don’t beat around the bush. If you have any evidence of 4th century Sinhala syringes, just give the link.
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Lanka Canuck / November 9, 2020
Champa,
What you are talking about is nothing but pure Mythology (Ramayana Myth/Ravana, Mahavamsa Myth and so on). There is no archaeological evidence what so ever. All what you are saying is concocted stories and Myth.
Is this you Champa (in the two Utube videos) giving an interview about Kuveni, Ravana and everything that never existed (myth), she is hallucinating exactly like you, the same theories and concepts and Myths.
https://youtu.be/mQ0KWNwXwuU
https://youtu.be/m-uXfkERnIA
Or, do you belong to the same cult…
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Champa / November 10, 2020
Lanka Canuck
Quote and show me where did I mention about Ramayana or Mahawamsa?
For your information, before India and Lanka were invaded by the British, nobody has even heard about Mahawamsa. However, we would use the information carried in Mahawamsa as the sources used in compiling the book are authentic. When the right time comes, all “other evidence” to prove our history will be revealed.
As with YOUTube videos, I have never given any media interview for my entire life.
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Native Vedda / November 9, 2020
Champa
–
” Some of the ruins you can see by yourself.”
–
Just hang on for a few years it’s only a year since Gota has been crowned. You will have to waite a few years more for his clan and their cronies completely ruin the country.
–
By the time this American president is removed from his office his clan would have emptied the treasury and sold most of the prime land to China, USA, Hindia, …..Australia, Norway, even Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Somalia, …. would own a piece of the Sinhala/Buddhist land.
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Champa / November 10, 2020
Native Vedda
Yes, you are correct for once.
Rajapaksas have been sponsoring the systematic destruction of our ancient archaeological evidences, especially in the North and East, pitting us against Tamils and Muslims for such destruction.
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SJ / November 9, 2020
Champa
What were the Indus Valley guys doing in their cities, using open air toilets, still quite common in parts of India?
*
BTW, please tell us which Sinhalese king invented the wheel?
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Mallaiyuran / November 7, 2020
Sampanthan Ayya said to Hindus not to go out to celebrate Depawali, and to avoid overcrowding the stores, even no shopping of cloths, the only holy material of Depawali’s sacramental anointment, Average families wait for Depawali to buy their cloths, like in the West they wait for Christmas. Sampanthan Ayya a politician who talking against people‘s feeling will destroy his political standing. But there are some water buffaloes, new claimers to the leadership for North East Hinduism, are asking to go to Temples and ring the bell for 10 minutes each time for five times a day. You guys get glimpses of where from this idea coming is? A famous Tamil writer wrote Muslims could not burry their bodies, but these Sinhala Buddhists are contaminating the river waters by pouring poison materials in the name of Buddha. Buddhist Anduwas are ordaining new Ayatollahs for Hinduism, so Old King can manage Hinduism with his Cane & Leash. This is what the article 11 of the constitution saying:, accepting practicing Hinduism while protecting Buddhism.
Using racial hates to win election is one thing and a politician being sensitive to people feeling is another thing. While preventing Muslims burying their bodies and pouring poisons in river water is about using racial hates to win election and using people’s religious sensitiveness as impunity for their disastrous, heinous crimes.
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Ajay / November 7, 2020
It’s sad to see the Sinhala-Buddhist people beginning to believe in their own lies out of sheer desperation and panic. First when they were misled to believe that things were under control they gloated they had won the battle against Covid-19 because of the exceptional military forces they have. Then they said Buddhism ensures special protection to their island. Now when the pandemic is full-blown and really hitting the country, they are shattered and resort to magical thinking. They spread deadly lies claiming Muslims were destroying the fertility of Sinhala people by putting stuff in their panties and food, and by sterilizing them when they gave birth. Now they themselves are victims of such rubbish and resort to superstitions and magic in dealing with the horrible pandemic. They have abandoned Buddhism and Viyath Maga. They have abandoned science. They have abandoned common sense. The health minister herself is leading this primitive campaign of seeking the protection of mythical creatures. This Rajapaksa-bootlicking groupie should be fired immediately if the country is ever to come out of the pandemic. Immediate priority is to protect the health of Sri Lankans from this “Rowdy Baby.”
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Simon / November 8, 2020
Champa: Commendable comment. Just add a compliment. This “Body” is not “ONE” single entity. It is a “Community” (or a Colony) of 120 Trillion cells of “Active Living” organisms. It also has “FORUR” Mechanisms of survival: (1) Respiratory (2) Circulatory (3) Digestive and (4) Nervous Systems. This “Nerve” plays a major role in the “Defense” of the body from “Outside Invaders” and that is called the “Immune System”. That is what is the strongest “Weapon” the physical body is equipped against the “Invaders” such as this “COVID 19” and many others. This “Weapon” has to be kept always “Sharpened” and “Ready” to be used as and when “Invaders” even of the “smaller” (such as a common cold) attack the body. How to sharpen it? The only way is to take in “Wholesome” food that strengthens the blood that circulates and “Cleans” impurities in the body. This is what everyone has to be “Powered” and provide the “Know-How” (study) and “Material” (Food) to face the “INVADERS”. The study of this “Inner Engineering” (Body elements, functioning, maintenance, and utilization)) must be made “Compulsory” in the school curriculum from the early stages of life. In my opinion, that is the best way to face calamities of this nature.
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Champa / November 8, 2020
Simon
Yep. Food is connected with Thejo (heat) element which is digested with the help of Apo (watery) elements which finally is pushed down with the help of Vayo (air/wind) element in the body.
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Native Vedda / November 9, 2020
Champa
–
When did you become an expert on everything like SJ, Shavendra, …. VP?
I have no idea how Vayo (air/wind) works however I know how our windbag Wimal Weerawansa parts with his wisdom.
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Champa / November 10, 2020
Native Vedda
C’mon, Keyboard Vedda, what makes your food ram down your bowels? It is the Vayo, the air inside in your body.
What makes your blood flow through your veins, limbs and all over your body? It is the Vayo in your body.
What makes your breath go upward and downward or make you sneeze or cough? It is the Vayo in your body.
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old codger / November 10, 2020
Champa,
Why do you insist on embarrassing yourself in public. Any A-Level biology text would have told you this :
“Food moves through your GI tract by a process called peristalsis. The large, hollow organs of your GI tract contain a layer of muscle that enables their walls to move. The movement pushes food and liquid through your GI tract and mixes the contents within each organ”
Vayo my foot!
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Champa / November 11, 2020
Hey old codger
Thank you for confirming the function of the Vayo element in our bodies.
However, your knowledge in Biology is incomplete and you seem to have no knowledge in Physics whatsoever.
Tell me, what makes your abdomen go up and down when breathing?
Yes, as you say “….your GI tract contains a layer of muscle that enables their walls to move. The movement pushes food and liquid through your GI tract and mixes the contents within each organ”
What makes the muscles in your GI move? It is the push. Then what element makes that push? It is the Vayo element which makes pressure, vibration, motion and rotation inside your body!
Do you know, the world’s first Scientist was Lord Buddha and his teachings are based on Science?
I am proud to say that Sinhalese were the first nation who utilized science in their civilization, medicine and day-to-day activities.
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old codger / November 11, 2020
Champa,
“Do you know, the world’s first Scientist was Lord Buddha and his teachings are based on Science?”
Ah yes, and he too was born in Sri Lanka, wasn’t he ?
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leelagemalli / November 12, 2020
OC
There are a group PINGUTHTHARAYAS that have been trying to paint the picture that the LB was born in SL.. These men in robes are no different to those pseudo healers that are said to have found effective medicine against COVID 19.
–
.. That I happened to read somewhere. If you may be living in the country, you could find more…. Any blant lie could become the public perception in that country today. If anyone would ask them to eat PUNNAKU instead rice, …they would switch on toit within hours. That is the average mindset.. in that slave island.
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old codger / November 11, 2020
Champa,
It is not my intention to teach you physiology or physics, though I am familiar with both. If you really want to know how your body works, check this :
https://www.visiblebody.com/?hsLang=en
If you still want to believe medieval fantasies, you are welcome.
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Native Vedda / November 12, 2020
old codger
–
Can I remind you that one cannot use “Fallacies of Argumentum ad Hominem” to discredit Champa’s logic.
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old codger / November 12, 2020
Native,
Why do I feel that I’m trying to sell a fridge to an Eskimo ?
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Native Vedda / November 12, 2020
Champa
–
“What makes your breath go upward and downward or make you sneeze or cough?”
–
Please refer to
Every breath you take: the process of breathing explained
08 JANUARY, 2018
https://www.nursingtimes.net/
–
Excerpts:
{When the intercostal muscles contract, they move up and away from the thoracic cavity. When the diaphragm contracts, it moves down towards the abdomen. This movement of the muscles causes the lungs to expand and fill with air, like a bellows (inhalation). Conversely, when the muscles relax, the thoracic cavity gets smaller, the volume of the lungs decreases, and air is expelled (exhalation).}
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Thanga / November 10, 2020
“Sampanthan Ayya said to Hindus not to go out to celebrate Deepawali, and to avoid overcrowding the stores, even no shopping of clothes, the only holy material of Depawali’s sacramental anointment, Average families wait for Deepawali to buy their clothes, like in the West they wait for Christmas. Sampanthan Ayya a politician who talking against people‘s feelings will destroy his political standing.”
What Mallaiyuran wrote was arrant nonsense. Sampanthan Aiya is a better Hindu than Mallaiyuran. COVID 19 spreads like wildfire. It does not make any distinction between Hindus and Buddhists or Christians and Muslims. The famous Thiruathi temple was shut down at the peak of the pandemic. In fact, the ex-chief priest of this temple died of corona infection. Thousands of temples, churches, mosques, synagogues were closed to contain the deadly virus. It has been proved beyond doubt that Gods of any description cannot save people from COVUD 19. The sky will not fall if Hindus skip a visit to the temple on Deepavali day. Sampanthan Aiya’s appeal makes good sense.
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Mallaiyuran / November 10, 2020
Thanga,
The comment was not written for nursery kids. Most of the CT people are above 60, the elderly-s or matured ones. Why do you break your neck? Sorry man!
Good luck for next time for one to you too.
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Noel / November 11, 2020
No one should worship statues or any symbol but adhere to the teachings of the prophets.
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Nathan / November 11, 2020
Tell me who worships statues and I will show you what an idiot you are!
/