In the annals of time, Sri Saddhamma which dawned over two and a half millennia ago in ancient India found steadfast guardians in the Ᾱrya Mahā Sangha. These trailblazers not only embraced a revolutionary ethos but also safeguarded the sacred tenets of their philosophy with unwavering devotion, often at the peril of their own lives. The saga of their protection unfolded against a backdrop of myriad challenges, including dissenting ideologies, invasive forces, unscrupulous monks, environmental adversities, geopolitical influences, and clashes of faith. The Ᾱrya Mahā Sangha, as the vanguard of this timeless wisdom, deserves unequivocal credit for navigating through the tumultuous seas of adversity. Amidst the ebb and flow of history, Sri Lanka earned the moniker “Dharmadweepa,” a testament to its status as an island where the majority of its population ardently adheres to the simple, profound teachings of Buddhism. Furthermore, this sacred land has played a pivotal role in disseminating Thēravāda Buddhism, bequeathed by the venerable Pāli tradition, to the global community. Throughout the ages, the Sambuddha order has weathered diverse challenges, yet each trial has witnessed the Ᾱrya Sangha and devoted laypeople rallying together as custodians of this venerable legacy.
The Ᾱrya Mahā Sangha, residing in this sacred realm both in the past and present, have steadfastly embraced the Buddha’s dictum “Yuñjatha Buddha Sɑ̄ sanē.” They have diligently crafted enduring policies to safeguard the Sambuddha Sāsana, fulfilling a dual role of guidance for both Buddhist monastics and laity. These venerable monks, stalwart guardians of Buddhist heritage, have ardently preached for the holistic development of the Buddhist community, offering unwavering counsel on living in harmony with Sri Saddhamma from the womb to the tomb.
The presence of immoral monks among the venerable Mahā Sangha, custodians of Sri Saddhamma for over two millennia, is not an unprecedented occurrence. Even in the era of Gautama Buddha, instances of such moral lapses were noted. It is paramount for us to steadfastly believe that the resilience of Sri Saddhamma, shielded against invasions by Pallava, Chōla, Pāndya, Portuguese, Dutch, and English, as well as natural disasters like famines, remains impervious to the influence of countless errant monks. The enduring truth is that, despite the existence of immoral monks, the sanctity of Sri Saddhamma endures. Lay Buddhists, in their commitment to upholding the teachings, possess the means to safeguard this legacy as long as the Mahā Sangha persists in their pursuit of emancipation as guided by the Lord Buddha. Thus, as devout adherents, let us strive to embody the virtues of ‘Kāshnti’ and ‘Upekshā,’ demonstrating a commitment to the path of piety and righteousness, even in the face of moral challenges within our midst.
The authority to address misconduct or disciplinary transgressions within the Sangha rightfully resides with the Mahā Sangha. They, having bestowed the privilege of donning the sacred robe, possess the rightful mandate to make decisions in such matters. It is incumbent upon us, the laymen, to steadfastly lend unwavering support for the stability of the Sri Sambuddha order. Our role is one of providing continual strength, ensuring the sanctity of the Sangha endures, and trusting in the judicious decisions made by those who have granted the privilege of wearing the revered robe.
© satipatthana magazine