Poson symbolises initial footprint of Buddhism in Lanka’

November 02, 2024

political Current Affairs

Poson symbolises initial footprint of Buddhism in Lanka’ ^Featured

June 15, 2019

“Poson Poya which falls on today marks the introduction of Buddhism in Sri Lanka with the arrival of Arahath Mahinda 2,326 years ago. This day we celebrate in grandeur manner with much devotion and honour as it symbolises the initial foot print of Buddhism in this country together with a civilization founded on Buddhism for generations to come,” President Maithripala Sirisena states in his Poson Message.“The ancient people who lived on this land with numerous beliefs, rituals and homages got accustomed to an organised way of life and a greater civilization consequent to the introduction of the teachings of the Buddha based on the noble principle of ahimsa. That was indeed the most important historical turning point that gave a new pragmatic meaning to our way of life and religious beliefs. With the arrival of Arahath Mahinda, together with the Thripitika Dhmma, unmatched art and craft to creating magnificent Buddhist Statues and pagodas are the gifts that this nation proudly inherited in significance to this remarkable point in our history.
“Buddhism soon found its ground firmly on this land as it is a religion based on realities of the lives of the people accustomed to an independent way of life, promoting a benevolent society based on agriculture. An education system centered on Buddhist monks were also established by the Arahath Mahinda and accordingly “Ata Seta Len’ or the 68 cave centres of learning. These turned out to be the first education centres in this country and the caves where Buddhist monks lived gradually evolved into monasteries and temples.

“Arahath Mahinda lived at Mihintalwa Temple for a very long time and the temple became a living memorial to the Great Arahath. By his simple life style and the supreme bliss he enjoyed through Buddhist way of life, Arahath Mahinda displayed an invaluable example to emulate, not only to the people, but also to the kings and noblemen.

‘Buddhist philosophy revitalised Sri Lanka’

“Sri Lanka is a unique example in the history of the world, of a society that was revitalised by cultural, political and religious reforms that stemmed from the introduction of Buddhist philosophy,” Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe states in his Poson message.
“Arahath Mahinda Thera undertook the mission to Sri Lanka with the clear understanding and confidence that its people would follow this sublime path of the Dhamma. Our adherence to Buddhist teachings and the way the Buddhism established in our country proved that invasions, intimidation and violence are totally unnecessary for the facts to be imprinted on people.
“On this Poson day, Sri Lanka needs to reflect more than ever before on the profound truth preached by Buddha. Our commitment to work in partnership to rebuild humanity through the path of the Dhamma, will undoubtedly pay off in replacing malice which is being propagated today.
“Let us live a life enriched by the true principles taught in Buddhism. Despite the prevalent religious and cultural differences, let us reflect upon unity and harmony that is essential for building our nation. May all be awakened by the Dhamma on this full moon day of Poson,” the message reads.
This day of Poson is an occasion for the people of Sri Lanka to feel deep in their hearts, the true meaning of limitless tolerance and harmonious living we have learned from Arahath MahindaWish you all a happy Poson celebrati