Buddhism in Sri Lanka
Theravada Buddhism is the primary school of Buddhism practiced in Sri Lanka, where the majority of the population identifies as Buddhist. The Tripitaka, the most revered and significant Theravada scripture, was initially composed in Sri Lanka. This incident lends credence to the belief held by certain followers that Sri Lanka is the "chosen land" for Buddhism and could serve as its future stronghold. The "Triple Gem"—the teacher (Buddha), the teaching (dhamma), and the monastic community—is where Sri Lankan Buddhists (and Theravada Buddhists generally) seek shelter (the Sangha).
The Buddha is not regarded as a "God" in the Abrahamic sense according to Theravada Buddhism. Instead, dedication to the Buddha is comparable to a student's regard for a master. Buddhism adherents in Sri Lanka hold regard and adoration for the Buddha to be a fundamental Buddhist precept. The "Four Noble Truths," which uphold the idea that suffering underlies all existence and can be liberated from through the "Eightfold Path," are the central teachings (or "dhamma") of Buddhism. The majority of additional doctrines and practices that have since been included into the Sinhalese interpretation of Theravada Buddhism have been embraced by the Sri Lankan Buddhist laity.
In Sri Lanka, the Sangha is a significant organization. The Sangha is the Buddhist monastic order that consists of ordained monks, nuns, and/or novices. Although Sri Lanka lacks a central Sangha, there are numerous monastic groups there, each with a unique approach to recruiting and discipline. The Sangha are a major force in Sri Lankan society, both historically and currently. For instance, monks practice public philanthropy and play significant roles for the laity in times of need or success.
The Sangha has been influential in Sri Lankan politics as well, representing the interplay between politics, Sinhalese nationalism, and religion. Radical sangha communities, for instance, are opposed to changing the current unitary state structure and including Tamils in national politics. Although some monks and sects have taken part in national politics, monastic organizations rarely come together behind a single cause.
