THE PGIPBS NEWSLETTER Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies (PGIPBS) University of Kelaniya -

Volume 02 Issue 01 September 2017

Contents

Feature Articles 2 Awards 14 Guest Lectures/Conferences/Workshops 5 Promotions and New Appointments 15 Study Tour 8 Library News 17 Convocation 12 Publications 18 Affiliated Institutes 13 Call for Applications 20 The PGIPBS Newsletter

Feature Articles Kāśyapa Mātanga and Dharmaraksa Rev. Dr. Wadinagala Pannaloka

he Eastern Han dynasty Emperor Ming Ti (58–75 TA.D.) had a dream of a Golden coloured God flying over the Royal Palace, whom was recognized by his ministers as the Buddha. The emperor dispatched a delegation to the west lands of China to bring the Buddhist texts.

The envoys met two Masters, Kãśypa Matanga (Jiaye Moteng) and Dharmarakṣha (Zhu-fa Lan, Gobharna/Dharmaratna) in the country Indo-Scythians in Central Asia. They were invited to China and eventually erected a temple for them in the capital Luo Yang. The temple was named as White Horse Temple (Baima shi) and the sacred The Buddha said, “Those who His Reincarnations, The Sutra of relics, texts and Buddha statues take leave of their families, and Terminating Knots in the Ten Holy brought with the two masters were renounce the secular life, who Terrains , The Sutra of the Buddha’s stored there. Living in the temple, know their mind, penetrate to Reincarnated Manifestations and two monks translated together its origin, and understand the A Compilation of the Divergent the text titled “Sutra of Forty-two unconditioned Dharma, are called Versions of the Two Hundred and Chapters” (Sishi’er Zhang Jing) shramanas. By always observing Sixty Precepts. from Sanskrit into Chinese, which the 250 precepts, being pure and is treated as the first Buddhist unblemished in their conduct, and The period of history when these sutra rendered into Chinese. The practicing the Path of the Four two masters were translating is text shows a mixture of Truths, they then become arhats. considered as legendary period, and Mahayana teachings; both so, their works are not treated the arahant ideal and bodhisattva This text has enjoyed a deal of as formal translations as of later ideal are met inside the work. great respect among Chinese figures like Anshi Kao and Zhe- Further, the contents indicate Buddhists since its translation Lou Jia Chen. sutra had been extant among up to date. It is believed that two Sarvastivadins, who followed the masters had translated five more Further Reading: Nattier, Dharmguptaka Vinaya, which had texts into Chinese, which are not Jan.2008, A Guide to the Earliest 250 rules for monks. The second extant today. They are: The Sutra Chinese Buddhist Translations, chapter records: of Dharmic-Sea Repertory, The Tokyo: Soka University. Sutra of the Buddha’s Deeds in

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Apaṇṇakasutta and Religious Tolerance Venerable Professor Miriswatthe Wimalagnana

paṇṇakasutta of the views while there were others who considered as acceptable views, Majjhimanikāya was denied them. It is very clear that all and others that could not be held Adelivered by the Buddha these beliefs were not verified by to be true. to a group of householders in a ordinary humans. It is not possible village of Brahmins in Sālā in for an ordinary person to decide by Then the Buddha proposes the Kosala kingdom who did not his own intellect, whether nihilism type of attitude one ought to have a firm faith in any religious that is the belief in non-existence cultivate concerning unverifiable teachers. The sutta reminds us of of the next life is true or not. It is metaphysical beliefs. The the famous Kālāmasutta in the the same case with the other four. wise person, caring for moral Aṅguttaranikāya which refers to With regard to the first three, the responsibility should act in such a the episode of the Buddha meeting Buddha says that if any ascetics way that he will choose whatever Kurūs who were supposed to have or Brahmins propound either ensures his safety here and now listened to many religious teachers nihilism, or non-doing or non- and also that of the next life whose teachings happened causality what is evident is that (If there is a next life at all). He to be mutually contradictory. they also happen not to observe considers that if he accepts non- Like in that Discourse in which good conduct of body speech and doing (of ethically wholesome the Buddha had expressed his mind. Then the Buddha affirms, acts) he is not only going against critical opinion on ten conditions expressing his own understanding, those ascetics and Brahmins who or criteria generally used for that actually there is a life after propound the reality of a next life accepting a particular religious death. The Buddha goes on to say but also exposing himself to the teaching, here in this discourse, that if it is in fact the case that there possibility of being subjected to the Buddha has presented general is a life after death, believing that suffering in the next life if there conditions for accepting ‘truths’ it is true is a right view (sammā- is next life at all. So for him based on religious world views diṭṭhi). When one’s deliberations accepting the reality of a next life and proposed an intelligent way are in accordance with that view it and observing good conduct of to respond to them. The Buddha’s becomes right intention (sammā- body speech and mind make him intention was to advise them on saṅkappa). When one verbally safe, as by doing so, there will how to appropriately respond asserts that there is a next life, that neither be adverse criticism of him to such teachings and on how is right speech (sammā-vācā) and for going against the good recluses to distinguish between worthy finally if he makes others know and Brahmins, nor will there be a and unworthy or wholesome and about these truths, that amounts to possibility of exposure to suffering unwholesome teachings. The communicate in terms of the good in the next life if there is a next sutta mentions about four types of dhamma (saddhammasaññatti). life at all. This observance is beliefs that were held during the And interestingly, the Buddha says called “incontrovertible practice” time: (1) nihilism (natthikavāda), that when one conducts oneself (apaṇṇako dhammo) (The Middle (2) Non-doing that is non-efficacy with such true conviction one does Length Discourses of the Buddha: of moral conduct (akiriyvāda), not exalt oneself and disparage 506). (3) Non-causality (ahetuvāda), others. As the context is related (4) Non-existence of the material to religious views ‘others’ in this In connection with the two latter world and (5) Denial of the context undoubtedly meant those cases, the Buddha says that possibility of the cessation of the who held unacceptable dogmas. one may not be in a position (process of) becoming. There were The foregoing explanation affirms to ascertain the existence of an ascetics and Brahmins or persons the Buddhist sympathetic position immaterial world or the cessation who propounded religious world- regarding those that could be of the (process of) becoming. In

3 The PGIPBS Newsletter this case the wise person should as follows: (1) one who torments incontrovertibility in religious grant the fact that it is not evident himself and pursues the practice practice. Through a close scrutiny to him, and consequently, without of torturing himself (e.g. Ascetics of the sutta one could elicit the dogmatically holding ‘this only is who advocated self-mortification), following observations relating to true and all else is false’ (idameva (2) one who torments others and incontrovertible religious practice. saccaṃ moghamaññaṃ) suspend pursues the practice of torturing his judgment on such issues. others (e.g. Those who follow 1. Tolerance towards plurality Regarding the hypothesis about the cruel occupations involving the of religions- The existence immaterial world the wise person slaughter of animals), (3) one who of many religious views considers: ‘I will be born into torments himself and others and should not be a matter for the material world if the view of pursues the practice of torturing disappointment or irritation. ascetics that there is no immaterial himself and others (e.g. Head- world is true; and I will be born in anointed king or a well-to-do 2. The truth can be found the immaterial world if the word Brahmin whose workmen are anywhere- We should be of those who accept the existence made to provide servile labour open to truth in any religious of immaterial world is true.’ for him) and (4) one who does not teaching if it is within the fold Considering so he makes himself torment oneself or others and does of an acceptable framework. safe being attracted to the notion not pursue the practice of torturing From the Buddhist point of of birth in the immaterial world oneself and others (e.g. Those view, when the truth becomes as material form is seen to be the who have gone forth to follow acceptable it can be made a cause of all types of conflicts such the noble path of liberation). The part of the Buddhist spiritual as taking up rods and weapons Buddha then explains the way of life- when we accept a true and quarrels etc. The same type of practicing the fourth, the noble belief that becomes a right reasoning is extended to the case path of liberation propounded by view; when we will operate in about cessation of the (process him. accordance with it that becomes of) becoming. The wise person is right intention and when we considered: ‘if the word of those The fundamental message of the talk about it that becomes who deny cessation of becoming is Discourse (sutta) is: if one selects right speech. And also when true I will be born after death in the the practice that could win the we convey the message of immaterial world and if the word of general approval of all wise people that truth in the right way that those who accept the cessation of if there is a life after death he becomes right communication. becoming is true, I might here and benefits from it and if there is not (saddhammasaññatti). The now attain nibbāna.’ The Buddha he has nothing to lose but has a lot right way here is signified by points out that the wise person in to gain by winning the admiration two ways: 1) Not exalting this case considers the belief of the of the wise people here and now. oneself and disparaging the ascetics and Brahmins that there is This is called incontrovertible other and 2) not taking the no cessation of (the process) of practice (apaṇṇaka-dhamma), the dogmatic stance ‘this alone becoming is linked to lust, linked practice ‘irrefutable’ that is no one is true and everything else is to bondage, linked to (sensuous) is able to falsify it in terms of the false. delight, linked to grasping and anticipated results. The Discourse 3. A person has the freedom clinging while the belief in the proposes that a tolerant and gentle to identify oneself with any reality of cessation is not so. So attitude towards others holding religious belief, and to affirm he practices in accordance with different dogmas should be the one’s faith in it as well as the belief in the possibility of qualities of a person who opts for conveying his belief to others cessation. and dedicates himself to a religious in the right way. faith having the characteristics of Towards the end of the Discourse, an incontrovertible practice. 4. Recognizing intellectual the Buddha introduces four persons freedom, full freedom should The whole sutta is about the 4 The PGIPBS Newsletter

be granted to the wise person to determine what he sees to be Special Guest Lectures correct. Venerable Professor Raluwe Padmasiri 5. The Buddhist path of liberation 1. Conducted of Special Gust Lecture for the first annual could be seen as a way of commemoration of Venerable Alpitiye Gnanissara thera incontrovertible observance under the title ‘Theravada Definitions to Defend Arahant’s in the real sense with no harm Interference to Console King Dutthagamini’s Repentance, towards either oneself or organized by the Association of Philosophy, Department of others. Philosophy, University of Peradeniya, September 22, 2016 The second position above does 2. Conducted a Special Gust Lecture on “New Directions of not deny the intrinsic fundamental Modern Buddhist Studies” organized by Department of teachings of different religions. Buddhist Philosophy, Buddhist and Pali University of Sri The teaching of the Buddha has Lanka, Homagama, September 07, 2016. a core of intrinsically valuable fundamentals. Theistic religions have their own beliefs. The truth Conferences is already there to be realized by everyone. When a belief can Venerable Professor Raluwe Padmasiri be conveniently accommodated 1. Presented a paper on “Buddhagosha against Modern within the fold of one’s belief Anthropologists’ Critique on the Role of Arahants in the system we should be open to Dutthagamini’s War” at the Sixth International Conference share it and behave towards it in on Theravada and Buddhagosha: Problems of Identification, a certain way. From the Buddhist Interpretation and Continuation organized by the Sri Lanka point of view, a truth irrespective Association of Buddhist Studies held at the Buddhist and of where it is found, if it comes Pali University of Sri Lanka, Homagama, Sri Lanka held within a form of anti-nihilism, from 1st to 3rd July 2016. moral efficacy, causality etc. it is acceptable. The Buddha 2. Presented a paper on “Necessity of Reflection and Revision also holds this idea of partial or of Conservative Attitude of Theravada Tradition” at the individual truths. K.N. Jayatilleke Research Symposium on Buddhist Teachings for Social (in his The Buddhist Attitude to Justice and Sustainable World Peace, United Day of Vesak Other Religions) elaborating the - Sri Lanka 2561/2017 held at the Bandaranaike Memorial th Buddhist position on partial or International Conference Hall (BMICH), Combo on 13 individual truths in relation to the May 2017. parable of the blind men and the elephant implies that what people Venerable Professor Miriswaththe believe may have elements of truth but are deluded in ascribing Wimalagnana to the whole of reality what is true Participated in an international conference on Theravada and only of the parts, or in other words Mahayana: On the Belt and the Road organized by the famous people have a tendency to cling to Po Lin Monastery in Hong Kong. The aim of the conference was what is partially true” (Jayatilleke, to create a platform for Theravada and Mahayana scholars to 1980: 354). Even though the full understand their strengths to work together for the future cause system of belief or final conclusion of Buddhism in the globalized and technologically advanced is contradictory to one’s own era. Venerable Wimalagnana presented a paper on “Introduction belief, there can be some aspects to saddhammasannatti: An Internet Based Project to Promote that could be accommodated Buddhism and Religious Tlerance.” within one’s own belief. 5 The PGIPBS Newsletter

Rev. Dr. Wadinagala Pannaloka 1. Presented the paper titled “Rule-Consequentialist Reading of Theravada Buddhist Ethics: Interpretative Issues” at the International Conference on Buddhism and Jainism in Early Historic Asia held at the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka on 16/02/2017. 2. Presented the paper “Peacebuilding, Forgiveness and Buddhist Ethics: Sri Lankan Context” at the International Seminar on Logic, Ethics and Epics: Homage to Bimal Krishna Matilal organized by the ICPR Center for Buddhist Studies, Department of Philosophy, Jadavpur University, Calcutta, India on 28/12/2016. 3. Presented the paper “Role of Supernatural Belief in Buddhist and Kantian Ethics” at the 6th International Buddhist Academic Conference on Buddhagosha: Problems of Identification, Interpretation and Continuation organized by the Sri Lanka Association of Buddhist Studies held at the Buddhist and Pali University, Homagama, Sri Lanka held from 1st to 3rd July 2016

Dr. Ashoka Welitota

Presented a paper on “The Mahāvihāra Criteria for Authenticating the Divergent Doc- trinal and Disciplinary Interpretations belonging to the Non-Mahāvihāra Traditions” at the 10th Annual Research Conference organized by the Royal Asiatic Society of Sri Lank held from 23rd -25th March 2017. (photo 26

Dilshan Manoj Rajapaksha

Presented two papers (1) “Buddhist Definition of Knowledge: A Comparative Study Relating to Contemporary Ways of Knowledge” and (2) “Limitations of Language in the Expression of the Buddhist Epistemological Analysis” at the 10th Annual Research Conference organized by the Royal Asiatic Society of Sri Lank held from 23rd -25th March 2017.

Orientation Program (Academic year – 2017) Orientation for the newly admitted students for Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies, Master of Arts in Pali, Postgraduate Diploma in Buddhist Studies, Master of Arts in Buddhist Ayurvedic Counseling and Postgraduate Diploma in Buddhist Ayurvedic Counseling of the academic year 2017 was held in the Main Hall of the PGIPBS on 17.02.2017

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Workshops Venerable Professor Raluwe Padmasiri

1. Attended to the workshop on Spreading of Dhamma through Electronic Media organized by the Independent Television Network Ltd, Battaramulla, August 15th 2016. 2. Conducted a two-hour workshop on “Logical Reasoning and Postgraduate Research” for the Postgraduate Research Students of the Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies on September 29, 2016. Professor Wasantha Priyadarshana conducted a series of workshops on Buddhist Counseling at the Buddha-Dharma Centre of Hong Kong (BDCHK) in December 2016.

Postgraduate Certificate in Pali

The PGIPBS has introduced a Postgraduate Certificate Course in Pali to familiarize the students with basic language skills that they need to pursue their research studies in the field of Pali and Buddhist Studies and also to prepare the students who want to follow the postgraduate diploma in Pali course offered by the Institute. Those who have a first degree from any recognized university in any subject/subjects or any other qualification deemed by the Faculty Board of the Institute as equivalent to a degree are eligible to apply for this course. No prior knowledge in Pali is required to enroll in this course conducted in English medium.

Farewell Ceremony (Academic year – 2016)

Farewell ceremony organized by the MA and Diploma students of the academic year 2016 was held in the Main Hall of the PGIPBS. Venerable Medhavudha (an MA student from Myanmar) delivered the farewell speech on behalf of students. Highlighting the quality of teaching and supervision, he suggested his friends to enroll in M. Phil and PhD degree programs offered by the PGIPBS, saying thus: “In my opinion, PGIPBS is the best place to learn Theravada Buddhism.”

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Study Tour - 2016: Memories of Students

We started our two-day study tour on 19th October 2016 from PGIPBS office at Kohuwala. Our first stop was at the Golden Rock Temple of Dambulla situated at the centre of the three ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, namely, Anurdhapura, Polonnaruva and Kandy. On the rock hill above 118 feet above the sea level, this ancient Buddhist cave temple, famous as Rangiri Dambulu Viharaya, has caves that unfold the history of a royal city as well as a monastic area where the early dwelling places of wall and ceiling paintings recorded (sister of King Kavanthissa). monks were situated. The drops of in the country. The paintings vary Today this place is considered as falling water into a bowl became from incidents connected with the a place which emanates Buddha’s a miraculous feature we witnessed life of the Buddha, previous births rays. Finishing a brief discussion at one of the caves. Inscriptions of the Buddha, and early history about the history related, we left found at the Dambulla Temple of Buddhism in our country. The to Polonnaruva for the night stay suggest that it was built by King geometric designs have filled gaps since the area was engulfed by the Vattagamini Abhaya in the first in between the paintings. There are darkness. century BCE. similarities of these paintings with temples at Kandy, Degaldoruwa Next day morning, after The primary focus of this rock and Kurunegala. having the breakfast, we started temple lies on seated, standing our study tour around Polonnaruva and recumbent images of different The artists at Dambulla which became the second major sizes of the Buddha and the had won over their goal of being place of visit. Polonnaruva, the paintings. There are statues of proud of their history and the medieval gods, Bodhisattvas and kings as preservation of the doctrine of is situated in the North-Central well. The decorated walls and the Buddha. The devotees who Province in the dry zone. The the ceiling with paintings depict enter this temple will be moved history and culture of Polonnaruva that the original rock shelters in the first instance by the Buddha dates back to , were converted to shrine rooms. images, which create a symbolic of the first capital city of Sri Lanka. A close scrutiny of the Buddha the unique qualities of the Buddha. The kings of Anuradhapura used Polonnaruva as an administrative images reveals that majority of the After having a small images have followed the style of centre when Colas conquered the discussion about the architectural major part of the island. But it Anuradhapura period, while some value of this temple, we started our have resemblance to the Buddha never became a permanent capital journey towards Somawathi until the accession of Vijayabahu I statues at Pollonnaruwa and near Sungawila village which is Kandy. to the throne of Sri Lanka expelling 40 km from . Built in Colas from power in 1055 CE. The images in the the second century BCE, this stupa Following Anuradhapura, the first Dambulla Temple are sculptured is said to have enshrined the right capital of Sri Lanka as a model, from rock, brick or wood and then tooth relic of the Buddha. Prince Vijayabahu I built Polonnaruva as plastered over and painted. This Giriaba constructed this stupa at a full-fledged royal capital. Since temple has the largest number of the request of his wife Somawathi then it has continued to exist as the 8 The PGIPBS Newsletter

second capital of the island from 1070 - 1235 CE in the medieval era. The establishment of the main centers of Buddhist monasteries within the capital city was the accepted tradition of the Sinhalese kings. Among the nineteen Sinhalese kings who ruled this capital city of Pollonnaruwa Vijayabahu I (1070 – 1110 CE), Parakramabahu I (1153 – 1186 CE) and Nissankamalla (1186 – 1196 CE) deserve special Mandapaya, Council chamber, Parakrama Samudraya. mention for royal patronage given Satmahal Prasada, Galpotha, to Architectural and sculptural and Rankoth Vehera. The We recall with gratitude the developments. moonstones of Polonnaruwa guidance and the precious differ much in decorative content knowledge given throughout the The ancient city of study tour for us by the Director Polonnaruwa covers an area of and composition compared to the Anuradhapura period excluding of the Postgraduate Institute of about 122 hectares. The area Pali and Buddhist Studies at excavated at present is comprised the bull. This may be due to the infiltration of Hindu ideals. the University of Kelaniya, the of a walled inner citadel and an Venerable Professor Kotapitiye outer walled city. Instead of decorating a single band with elephant, horse, lion Rahula Thera. We are also Anuradhapura was studded and the bull as in Anuradhapura, extremely grateful to our lecturers with more religious buildings at Pollonnaruwa restricted to one Venerable Dr. Wadinagala using stones but the remains of type of animals alternatively they Pannaloka Thera, Dr. Ashoka Polonnaruwa were composed have done it with one band. Welitota and Dr. Princy Pieris with administrative and religious for sharing their knowledge with buildings using stones and baked The four well-preserved Buddha us and also we are thankful to bricks as the material. Kings images at have to Senior Assistant Registrar Mr. of Polonnaruva had followed be reckoned among the greatest L.A. Sumith Jayasekara and the the tradition existed during the works achieved by the sculptures members of the PGIPBS staff who Anuradhapura period in building of ancient Sri Lanka. The made our study tour a success. up of the royal city and the most outstanding sculpture in Polonnaruva the rock-cut colossal By ceremonial centre. Teja Ramli Fernando male statue at Pothgul Vehera has Cinta Ransirini The successful continuation been interpreted as a king or a sage. of reviving Buddhism and re- At last, we came to Polonnaruva building monasteries clearly show museum which is a treasure house the relations Buddhism had with for artifacts of heritage value. We the kings. started our journey back to the PGIPBS with the spreading of To study about the architecture of the fading sun rays over the most Polonnaruwa, we visited Vatadage, amazing irrigational complex Hatadage, Atadage, Nissankalatha- 9 The PGIPBS Newsletter

A Special Workshop for Postgraduate Research Students

A special workshop on “Guidelines to Overcome Issues related to Thesis Writing” organized by the PGIPBS to enhance the writing skills of the MPhil and PhD candidates was conducted by Venerable Dr. Soorakkulame Pemaratana on 07th June 2017 at the Main Hall of the Institute.

A Series of Workshops on Bhikśu Vinaya, Katikāvat hā Nūtana Abhiyoga Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies organizes a series of workshops on “ Bhikśu Vinaya, Katikāvat hā Nūtana Abhiyoga “ (Monastic Discipline, Kathikāvat and Contemporary Challenges), under the direction of Venerable Professor Kotapitiye Rahula Anunayaka Thera, Director of PGIPBS, with the participation of distinguished academics representing Sri Lankan Universities with the aim of drafting a set of guidelines to be used in preparing Katikāwats for Sangha community in Sri Lanka in future. The first workshop of the series was held at the Sri Lanka Foundation, Colombo on 29.11.2016 and the second at the Main Hall of the Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies on 14.03.2017 The third workshop of the series will be held in the Main Hall of the PGIPBS and the date of this workshop will be announced soon.

A Workshop on Curricula Development Dr. Upali Mampitiya, Senior Lecturer, Department of Mathematics, University of Kelaniya, on the request of the PGIPBS, conducted a workshop on “Postgraduate Curricula in accordance with UGC Quality Assurance and Accreditation Guidelines” on the 20th June 2017. This workshop was aim at revising the postgraduate curricula of the PGIPBS in accordance with the UGC Quality Assurance and Accreditation Framework.

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MOU with MT PUTUO Buddhist Academy of China

The signing of an Agreement on Professor Kotapitiye Rahula Mr. Yuan Dexin, the Deputy Academic Co-operation between Anunayaka Thera and Senior Director of the Bureau of Ethnic the Postgraduate Institute of Lecturer Rev. Dr. Wadinagala and Religious Affairs of Zhoushan Pali and Buddhist Studies of Pannaloka attended the occasion. District China attended the University of Kelaniya and the ceremony as the Chief Invited Buddhist Academy of Mt. Putuo Professor Madduma Bandara, Guest. Among the other invitees to in China ceremonially held on the Venerable Professor Kotapitiye grace the moment were Venerable 17th October 2016. Rahula, Vice President of the Jie Ding the Dean of Academic Buddhist Association of China Affairs of the China’s Buddhist Representing the University and Chairman of the Buddhist Academy of Mt. Putuo, Senior of Kelaniya, Vice-Chancellor Academy of Mt. Putuo Venerable Lecturer Venerable Li Xia (Ph.D. Professor Sunanda Madduma Master Dao Ci signed the agreement PGIPBS), and Foreign Affairs Bandara, the Director of as the main representatives of the Director of Mt. Putuo Buddhist Postgraduate Institute of Pali two institutes. Academy, Venerable Xin Ci (Ph.D. and Buddhist Studies Venerable PGIPBS). A Delegation Form Myanmar

A delegation from Myanmar visited the Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies at Kohuwala on the 13th September 2016 and had a dialogue with the academic staff headed by the Director of PGIPBS Venerable Professor Kotapitiye Rahula Thera. The matters were considered how to forge a relationship between the two Institutes in future 11 The PGIPBS Newsletter

A Delegation from Mt Putuo Academic Institute in China

On 06th December 2016, a delegation from the Mt Putuo Buddhist Academy of China visited the Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies, Kohuwala. The delegation had a meeting with the Academic and Administrative officials led by the director of PGIPBS Venerable Professor Kotapitiye Rahula Thera. Some significant matters related to the bilateral agreement which had been signed between two institutes in October 2016 were taken into discussion with the objective of advancing the relationship between the two parties in the future. Convocation 2016

General Convocation of the PGIPBS was held at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), Colombo on 19.09.2017

PhD Graduates - 2016 Ven. Urupelawwe Hemarama Ms. G.D.C.R. Premarathna Ven. Chung Kwanyoo received the Gold Medal for the best performance in the Final Mr. P.H.G. Dharmasiri Examination of Master of Arts Mr. R.A.R.P. Susantha Degree in Buddhist Studies-2016. Mrs. S.W. Samarawikrama Mrs. R.P. Nalika Mallawatantri

Mr. E.M.S.K. Senavirathna MPhil Graduates – 2016 received the Silver Medal for the best performance in the Final Rev. Fr. K.M.P.P.P. Perera Examination of Postgraduate Diploma in Buddhist Studies-2016.

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Affiliated Institutes The Buddha-Dharma Centre of Hong Kong

Under the inspiration and guidance of Venerable part-time students, and 19 occasional students. Among Professor KL. Dhammajoti, The Buddha-Dharma the students, there are monks, doctors, principals Centre of Hong Kong (BDCHK) was founded in April of higher-level education institutions, university 2012. BDCHK is a charitable institution registered professors, accountants, and other professionals, under section 88 Inland Revenue Ordinance, Cap. 112 all of whom are enthusiastic in learning Buddhism. Laws of Hong Kong. The primary aims of BDCHK The programme operates in confirmation with all the are to promote the study and research of Buddhism requirements by the PGIPBS. Upon completion of through academic courses and publications. the programme, students will be awarded their MA Enrolment to its academic programmes is open to local degree by the University of Kelaniya. as well as students from abroad and from both the lay and sangha communities. It will also conduct regular The MA programme is offering the following course seminars, lectures and conferences and organize modules from 2015: related activities which will be open to the general • Buddhist Doctrines of Pali Nikāyas: Analysis public. In line with our Mission of integrating studies and Interpretation with practice, the Centre endeavours to provide meditation classes, retreats, discussion forums, and • History of Indian Buddhism: From Its Origins to other specially designed courses to assist in the the Emergence of Mahāyāna harmonizing of our daily lives with the five spiritual • History of Chinese Buddhism faculties of faith, vigour, mindfulness, equipoise and • Tibetan Buddhism: History and Doctrines wisdom. • Readings in Pali Suttas On January 2014, BDCHK was granted the approval by The University Grants Commission of Sri Lanka • Theravāda Abhidhamma: Origins and to be affiliated with the Postgraduate Institute of Pali Development and Buddhist Studies (PGIPBS) of the University • Buddhist Social Dimension of Kelaniya to conduct postgraduate courses, • Readings in Buddhist Sanskrit Texts Postgraduate Diploma, Master of Arts, Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy. BDCHK • Theravāda Tradition: A Historical and Doctrinal signed the Memorandum of Understanding with Study PGIPBS in April 2014. And in November 2014, • Sarvāstivāda Abhidharma: Doctrines and BDCHK successfully registered the Master of Arts Controversies Degree in Buddhist Studies programme (Registration no. 272503) with the Hong Kong Education Bureau. Courses are taught by eminent Buddhist scholars, both local and international, including Venerable On 17 March 2015, the first Master of Arts in Buddhist Professor KL. Dhammajoti, Professor Y. Karunadasa, Studies programme was commenced at BDCHK. Professor Oliver Abeynayake, Professor Toshiichi There are at present a total of 36 students admitted to Endo, Venerable Professor Guang Xing, and Dr. this MA programme, including 3 full-time students, 14 Georgios Halkias. 13 The PGIPBS Newsletter

BDCHK will soon be commencing three more collaboration with PGIPBS and the University of programmes affiliated with PGIPBS: Postgraduate Kelaniya, BDCHK aims at establishing a centre of Diploma in Buddhist Studies, Master of Philosophy excellence for Buddhist Studies and research in Hong in Buddhist Studies and Doctor of Philosophy in Kong, providing the best possible opportunities for Buddhist Studies. The registration of the three dedicated learners to develop, with the context of courses is expected to be approved by the Hong spiritual growth, knowledge and research skills in the Kong Education Bureau in this summer. In field of Buddhist Studies.

Atisha Dipankar Peace Gold Award -2017

Director of PGIPBS Venerable Kotapitiye Rahula Anunayaka thera was awarded the prestigious Atisha Dipankar Peace Gold Award - 2017 by the Bangladesh Bouddha Kristi Prachar Sangha at the award conferring ceremony held at Dharmarajika Complex, Sabujbag, Dhaka, Bangladesh on the 23rd February 2017.

Awards (Academic)

Venerable Professor Miriswaththe Wimalagnana, Head, Department of Buddhist Culture of the PGIPBS was awarded in 2015 “The Most Outstanding Young Researcher” from the University of Kelaniya.

Professor Deshapriya Gunasena was awarded in 2015 “The Most Outstanding Researcher” from the University of Kelaniya

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Awards (Non-Academic)

Mrs. M.L.A.P. Kanthi, Senior Staff Mrs B.D.R.T.K. Bodikotuwa, Computer Mr.K.L.D.J. Liyanage, Computer Assistant (Clerk) attached to Finance Applications Assistant – Gr. III attached Applications Assistant – Gr. III attached division, was awarded the Vice to Examination and Student Affairs, was to Examination and Student Affairs, was Chancellor Award – 2016 for Long awarded the Vice Chancellor Award – awarded the Vice Chancellor Award – Service. 2016 for taking minimum number of 2016 for taking minimum number of leaves in the academic year 2016 leaves in the academic year 2015

Promotions (Academic) Professors Four Senior Lecturers of the Institute were promoted to Professorship on Merits by the University of Kelaniya.

Venerable Professor Venerable Professor Professor Professor Miriswaththe Wimalagnana Raluwe Padmasiri Deshapriya Gunasena Wasantha Priyadarshana

Promotions (Non-academic)

Mrs. A.H.L.S. Mr. D.M.J. Bandara, Mr. K.H.S. Samantha, Mr. K.D. Jayalath, Wanigasooriya, attached to attached to the Finance attached to the Finance was promoted to Office Work the Administration division, division, was promoted to division, was promoted to Assistant was promoted to the Senior the Senior Staff Assistant Store- keeper Gr. II. Staff Assistant (Stenographer) (Shroff)

15 The PGIPBS Newsletter

New Appointments (Academic) Senior Lecturers Rev. Dr. Wadinagala Pannaloka Dr. Pannaloka has served as an Assistant Lecturer at the joined the Academic Staff of the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies of University Postgraduate Institute of Pali and of Peradeniya. From the 01st January 2016, he joined Buddhist Studies of University of the Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies of Kelaniya. He received Bachelor of University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka as a Senior Lecturer. Arts (Special) Degree in Pali from Discipline and Research: Buddhist Philosophy, Buddhist the Department of Pali and Buddhist Ethics, Comparative Studies of Pali Nikayas and Chinese Studies of University of Peradeniya, Agamas. Sri Lanka. He continued his further studies at the same Department Ashoka Welitota joined the Academic and obtained Master of Philosophy in Buddhist Studies. Staff of the Postgraduate Institute of Getting the foreign exposure, Dr. Pannaloka studied Pali and Buddhist Studies of University st Classical Chinese and Mahayana Buddhism earning his of Kelaniya on 01 January 2016. second Master Degree at Yuan Kuang Buddhist Research He has received his Bachelor of Arts Institute in Taiwan. In 2015, he was graduated with Doctor (Special) Degree from the University of Philosophy in Philosophy for the thesis “Theravada of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka in 1999 Buddhist Ethics: Ethics beyond Being and Non-being” and Master of Buddhist Studies Degree and Doctor of completed at the Graduate Institute of Philosophy of Philosophy Degree from the Centre of Buddhist Studies National Central University, Taiwan. (CBS), The University of Hong Kong (HKU), Hong Kong. New Appointments (Non-academic)

Mr. L.A.Sumith Jayasekera Ms. M.B.Y.G. Perera Mr. Dilshan Manoj Ms. K.W.G.E.N. Weerasinghe assumed duties as a Senior assumed duties as an Assistant Rajapaksha, assumed duties assumed duties as a Assistant Registrar of the Registrar of the PGIPBS on as a Scientific Assistant of the Computer Applications PGIPBS on 16/11/2015. 03/10/2016. Research Unit on 16/01/2016. Assistant (trainee) of the Administration Division on 03/10/2016.

Ms. A.W.T.N.G. Ms. L.G.N.T. Jayasinghe H.M.M.L Senavirathna, Mr. D.S.B.Wijesundara Wanigasekara assumed duties assumed duties as a assumed duties as a Clerk Gr. assumed duties as a as a Computer Applications Computer Applications III of the academic division Laborer (Grade III) of the Assistant (trainee) of the Assistant – Gr. III of the on 15/05/2017. Administration Division on Accounts Division on Examination and Student 16/05/2016. Affairs Division on 03/10/2016. 16 01/03/2017. The PGIPBS Newsletter

K.R.M.D. Rathnayake Mr. A.S.P. Gunarathna Mr. M.M.Geethanjaya assumed duties as a Driver assumed duties as a Laborer Hasanka Bandara, Gr. II on 01/03/2017 (Grade III) of the Accounts assumed duties as a Library Division on 16/05/2016 Attendant (Grade III) on 16/06/2016

Library News: New Arrivals Routledge Library Edition: Buddhism

Routledge Library Edition brings together titles on Buddhism which were originally published over a period of fifty years or so, starting in the 1920s. This edition comprises with the following volumes.

Volume I: The Buddha’s Philosophy - George Francis Allen Volume II: The Buddhist Teaching of Totality - Garma C.C. Chang Volume III: Buddhist Meditation - Edward Conze Volume IV: Buddhist Thought in India - Edward Conze Volume V: Buddhism in the Tibetan Tradition: A Guide - Kelsang Gyatso Volume VII: Early Buddhist Theory of Knowledge - Kulatissa Jayatilleke Volume VII: The Wheel of Death - Philip Kapleau Volume VIII: Buddhism and Christianity - Winston L. King Volume IX: Dogen’s Formative Years - James Kodera Volume X: Footprint of the Buddha - E. F. C. Ludowyk Volume XI: Divine Revelation in Pali Buddhism - Peter Masefield Volume XII: The Central Philosophy of Buddhism - T. R. V. Murti Volume XIII: Pathways of Buddhist Thought - Venerable Nyanaponika Volume XIV: Idealistic Thought of India - P. T. Raju Volume XV: The Philosophical Traditions of India - P. T. Raju Volume XVI: The Meaning of Life in Hinduism and Buddhism - Floyd H. Ross Volume XVII: The Buddhism: Way of Life - Frederick Harold Smith Volume XVIII: Lucid Exposition of the Middle Way - Mervyn Sprung Volume XIX: The Buddhist Tantras - Alex Wayman Volume XX: Philosophies of India - Heinrich Zimmer

17 The PGIPBS Newsletter

Publications

The peer reviewed journal of the PGIPBS “Anveṣaṇā” (English) volume 7 has come out of print. The volume includes 24 research papers contributed by distinguished scholars. Contents

1. The Origin of the Concept of Paritta - Oliver Abeynayake Professor Asanga Tilakaratne Congratulatory Volume 2. The Sixteen Steps of Mindfulness of Breathing in Three Vinayas - Bhikkhu Journal of the Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies V Anālayo olume 7, 2015 University of Kelaniya

3. Visions of the Dharmarāja: ‘Just Ruler’ in Theravāda Buddhist SocietiesISSN: 1391- 474 in X South

Printed by, Volume 7, 2015 and Southeast Asia - Smart Print Solutions Centre Ven. Mahinda Deegalle 444/3B, Pitipana South, Homagama 4. Significance and Relevance of Maintaining a Balanced Mind and Body Status in the Perspective of Attaining Nibbāna - N. A. Ruwan K. Deshapriya 5. The Doctrine of Mere-cognition (vijñaptimātratā) in the Cheng Wei-shi Lun (Vijñaptimātratā-siddhi-śāstra) - Ven. Kuala Lumpur Dhammajoti 6. The Buddha’s ‘Eighty Minor Bodily Marks’ (asīti-anuvyañjana) in Theravāda Buddhism: A Critical Survey - Toshiichi Endo 7. Indirect Utterances in the Canon: A Critical Examination of Pāli Tipiṭaka and Corresponding Commentarial Explanations - Aruna K. Gamage 8. An Epistemological Approach to Buddhist Soteriology - S a m a n t h a I l a n g a k o o n

9. Buddhist Analysis of Structural Violence, Conflict Transformation and Reconciliation - Aruna Jayathilaka 10. Positioning Sri Lanka in Early Knowledge Transmission Networks: A Survey based on Pāli Commentaries - Chandana Jayawardana 11. How Buddhism Looks at Other Religions - Y. Karunadasa

12. Robe and Medicine: Therapy in Buddhist Monastery in South and South-east Asia with Special Reference to Sri Lanka - Archaeological and Literary Evidence in the Historic Period - Ven. Wetara Mahinda 13. Bhikṣuṇī’s Vinaya Practice in Pushou Temple in China - Ven. Rujing Mao (Shi Qianjing)

14. A Buddhist Response to Mellema's Analysis on Shared Moral Responsibility - Ven. Raluwe Padmasiri 15. Pali Adjectives: When Progress Hurts - Ven. Pandita 16. The Notion of Cetanā (Conation) as Discussed by Pali Exegetes: Some Observations - Rev. Fr. Aloysius Pieris, s.j. 17. Early Buddhist Concept of Truth: A Study Based on the Pali Canonical Sources - P. D. Premasiri 18. Femininity: A Buddhist Psychological Approach - P. R. Wasantha Priyadarshana 19. The Way of Transformation of Suffering through Mindfulness from a Buddhist Perspective - Sumana Ratnayaka 20. The Soteriology Stock Unit of the Sāmaññaphala Sutta: How was it formed? How has it influenced? - G. A. Somaratne 21. Kandy Äsala Perahera – An Ancient Ritual – A Modern Day Cultural Commentary - Anuththaradevi Widyalankara 22. Buddha's Way of Communication - Ratna Wijetunge 23. Saṃsāra and Nibbāna as Reflected in Rootless Thoughts - Ven. Miriswaththe Wimalagnana 24. The Historical Buddha: A Personality Analysis - Guang Xing 18 The PGIPBS Newsletter

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19 The PGIPBS Newsletter

Call for Applications: Academic Year - 2018 PGIPBS invites applications for the Academic Year – 2018 which will commence in February. Following Courses will be offered in both English and Sinhala media. English Medium Classes: Weekday’s Afternoons Sinhala Medium Classes: Saturdays Closing Date of Applications: December 31, 2017

01. Postgraduate Diploma in Buddhist Studies (1 Year)

02. Master of Arts (M.A.) Degree in Buddhist Studies (1 Year)

03. Postgraduate Diploma in Pali (1 Year)

04. Postgraduate Diploma in Buddhist Studies (1 Year)

05. Master of Arts (M.A.) Degree in Pali (1 Year)

06. Postgraduate Diploma in Buddhist Ayurvedic Counselling (1 Year)

07. Master of Arts Degree in Buddhist Ayurvedic Counselling (1 Year)

08. Master of Philosophy in Buddhist Studies (M.Phil) (2 Years)

09. Doctor of Philosophy in Buddhist Studies (Ph.D) (3 Years)

The application forms are available at the office of this Institute at following costs. MA/Postgraduate Diploma Rs. 500/=, M.Phil /PhD - Rs 1000/= Application forms can also be requested by post by sending the Deposit Slip after paying relevant amount to Peoples Bank - Thimbirigasyaya Branch’s Account No: 086-100181189664 together with a self-addressed (9” x 4” size) stamped envelope. Duly completed applications for one year courses should be addressed to Assistant Registrar to reach the following address. Assistant Registrar, Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies, No: 113, Dutugemunu Street, Kohuwala, Sri Lanka.

Advisor: Contact details: Venerable Professor Kotapitiye Rahula Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies No: 113, Dutugemunu Street Editors: Kohuwala Rev. Dr. Wadinagala Pannaloka Sri Lanka

Dr. Ashoka Welitota Tel. +94 11 280 9321 ISSN 2448-9727 Email: [email protected] www.pgipbs.kln.ac.lk

9 772448 972003

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