Indasoma Bhikkhu Explores Buddha's Teachings on Citta and Sensory Perception with Sri Lankan University Students and Psychologists

Date and Location: March 13, 2024, Near the Bodhi Tree, Sri Lanka

Summary: Renowned Buddhist monk Indasoma Bhikkhu delivered an enlightening Dhamma teaching on the Buddha's philosophy and teachings to a gathering of Sri Lankan university students and psychologists. Using an Experiential Base Teaching Methodology, Bhikkhu delved into the intricate workings of the mind, particularly focusing on how citta arises in response to sensory stimuli through the six sense bases.

Under the serene shade of the historic Bodhi Tree, a group of eager minds assembled to explore the depths of Buddhist philosophy. Led by the venerable Indasoma Bhikkhu, the students and psychologists embarked on a journey of discovery into the intricacies of the mind and sensory perception.

Drawing from the timeless wisdom of the Buddha's teachings, Bhikkhu skillfully elucidated the concept of citta – the mind – and its interaction with the six sense bases: eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind. Through engaging discussions and experiential exercises, attendees gained insights into how sensory stimuli give rise to consciousness and shape our perceptions of the world.

Bhikkhu emphasized the impermanent and conditioned nature of sensory experiences, highlighting the Buddha's teachings on the Three Marks of Existence: impermanence (anicca), unsatisfactoriness (dukkha), and non-self (anatta). He elucidated how our attachment to sensory experiences leads to suffering and dissatisfaction, underscoring the importance of cultivating mindfulness and wisdom to transcend these limitations.

Using the Experiential Base Teaching Methodology, Bhikkhu encouraged participants to explore their own sensory experiences through guided meditation and reflective exercises. By tuning into the present moment and observing the arising and passing away of sensations, attendees deepened their understanding of the mind-body relationship and the nature of perception.

In his teachings, Bhikkhu emphasized the practical relevance of the Buddha's teachings in today's world, particularly in the field of psychology. By integrating mindfulness practices and insights from Buddhist psychology, he highlighted the potential for personal transformation and mental well-being.

As the afternoon sun gently bathed the gathering in its golden light, the session concluded with a sense of reverence and gratitude. Inspired by Bhikkhu's teachings, participants departed with renewed clarity and a deeper appreciation for the profound wisdom of the Buddha's teachings.

Indasoma Bhikkhu's insightful Dhamma teaching offered a timeless reminder of the profound insights into the workings of the mind and the path to liberation as elucidated by the Buddha over two millennia ago.

 

Foundational Teacher Training Integrating Buddha's Teaching Methodology into Modern Learning to Commence in Sri Lanka

 Date: March 2, 2024

Location: Makutarama Myanmar Temple, Sri Lanka

In a significant endeavor aimed at bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary educational practices, Bhikkhu Indasoma, Master Trainer at the European International University, is set to inaugurate the Foundational Teacher Training in Sri Lanka. Scheduled to commence from the 2nd of March 2024 until the 12th of March 2024, the training program seeks to integrate Buddha's teaching methodology into modern learning frameworks.

Organized by Ven Candasiri, Chief Incumbent of the Makutarama Temple, the Effective Teaching Skills Package Teacher Training will take place nightly from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the library room of the Makutarama Myanmar Temple. This initiative, endorsed and guided by Oxford Sayadaw Prof. Dr. K. Dhammasami, the esteemed founder and Rector of Shan State Buddhist University, underscores a profound commitment to enriching educational paradigms with the essence of Buddhist pedagogy.

A notable participant in this transformative training is Sao Dhammasami, a Ph.D. Candidate in Peace Studies (International Program) at the International Buddhist Studies College of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University in Thailand. Sao Dhammasami brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the program, poised to lead the integration of Buddha's timeless teachings into contemporary educational methodologies.

 Ven. Vilasa, a Master of Teaching English program student from Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, will serve as a training assistant for CEYLON JOURNEY TAI SANGHA Organization's training program. Vilasa, an esteemed alumnus of the First Batch of the FCTOT (MCU Thailand), will collaborate closely with Master Trainer Sao Dhammasami, contributing to the success and effectiveness of the training.

The convergence of esteemed scholars, practitioners, and aspiring educators from diverse backgrounds underscores the universality and timelessness of Buddha's teachings. As Sri Lanka prepares to host this groundbreaking initiative, it marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards fostering holistic and transformative educational experiences inspired by the wisdom of the ages.

Joint Press Release Statement

For Immediate Release       Date: March 1, 2024

We are delighted to announce the formalization of a collaborative partnership between the Khettarama Social Service Foundation and the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum, Myanmar, marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The MOU, signed on March 1, 2024, signifies a significant milestone in our shared commitment to promoting Buddhist principles, fostering education, and serving communities around the world.

Key highlights of the MOU include:

- Collaborative Endeavors: The agreement outlines our joint efforts in educational training, social service cooperation, Buddha Sasana development, and various other initiatives aimed at uplifting communities and spreading the message of compassion and understanding.

- Land Provision and Temple Establishment: The Khettarama Social Service Foundation has graciously offered portions of land for the construction of the Myanmar Society Temple and the establishment of a branch office of Hswagata in Sri Lanka, symbolizing our commitment to physical spaces that foster spiritual growth and community engagement.

- Adherence to Guiding Principles: The Khettarama Social Service Foundation pledges to adhere to the 15 principles formulated by Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum, Myanmar. These principles serve as guiding values for our collaborative efforts and underscore our shared dedication to ethical conduct and humanitarian service.

This partnership represents a convergence of shared values and aspirations, underpinned by a deep reverence for Buddhist teachings and a profound commitment to the well-being of all sentient beings.

As we embark on this journey together, we envision a future filled with opportunities for mutual learning, growth, and collective impact. Through our combined efforts, we aspire to nurture a world characterized by compassion, wisdom, and harmony.

We express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported us on this transformative journey, and we look forward to the meaningful collaborations that lie ahead.

Sincerely,

Khettarama Social Service Foundation and Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum, Myanmar

Renowned Myanmar Monk Honored with Lifetime Special Membership by Khettarama Social Service Foundation

Kurunegala, Sri Lanka - March 1, 2024

In a ceremony held at the revered Sri Khettarama Ancient Temple in Uyandana, Hindagolla, Kurunegala, Sri Lanka, the Khettarama Social Service Foundation bestowed the prestigious Lifetime Special Membership upon Bhikkhu Indasoma, widely known as Venerable Dhammasami. The esteemed monk, revered for his dedication to the preservation and propagation of Buddhist heritage, is the Founder of the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum in Myanmar.

The ceremony, graced by spiritual leaders and dignitaries, highlighted Bhikkhu Indasoma's remarkable contributions to global Buddhist culture and heritage. Reverend Kowane Palitha Thero, President of the Khettarama Social Service Foundation, and Reverend Meewellave Dhammananda Thero, Secretary of the foundation, jointly presided over the proceedings.

The Lifetime Special Membership is a token of appreciation from the Khettarama Social Service Foundation for Bhikkhu Indasoma's unwavering commitment to preserving the essence of Buddhism and disseminating its teachings worldwide. This honorary title entitles Bhikkhu Indasoma to exclusive privileges and benefits within the foundation.

Bhikkhu Indasoma's dedication to the propagation and preservation of Buddhist heritage has garnered international recognition. His establishment of the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum stands as a testament to his tireless efforts in safeguarding invaluable relics and artifacts for future generations.

In his acceptance speech, Bhikkhu Indasoma expressed profound gratitude to the Khettarama Social Service Foundation for the esteemed honor bestowed upon him. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts in nurturing and preserving the rich tapestry of Buddhist culture and teachings.

The ceremony symbolizes the unity and collaboration among Buddhist communities worldwide in upholding the principles of compassion, wisdom, and altruism espoused by Lord Buddha. It serves as a reminder of the profound impact individuals like Bhikkhu Indasoma have in fostering interfaith dialogue and understanding across diverse cultures and traditions.

As Bhikkhu Indasoma's legacy continues to inspire countless individuals on their spiritual journey, the Khettarama Social Service Foundation reaffirms its commitment to promoting harmony, compassion, and social welfare through its endeavors.

The conferral of the Lifetime Special Membership upon Bhikkhu Indasoma marks a significant milestone in the annals of Buddhist heritage, underscoring the enduring power of unity, compassion, and collective action in advancing the noble ideals of Buddhism.

MOU between Hswagata (Myanmar ) and Nirvana Temple (Congo)

 

Joint Press Release : Nirvana Temple and Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum Myanmar Forge Collaborative Partnership to Promote Buddhist Values and Community Welfare

 Joint Press Release

Nirvana Temple and Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum Myanmar Forge Collaborative Partnership to Promote Buddhist Values and Community Welfare

[Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Yangon, Myanmar - March 1, 2024] - Nirvana Temple, represented by Bante Pannabodhi, and Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum, Myanmar, represented by Bhikkhu Indasoma, have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize their collaborative efforts in promoting Buddhist principles, education, and community welfare.

The agreement, signed on February 28th, 2024, signifies a shared commitment between the two esteemed organizations to collaborate in various areas, including educational training, social service cooperation, Buddha Sasana development, youth empowerment, peace promotion activities, environmental conservation, mindfulness meditation programs, vocational training, counseling services, Dhamma talks, research and development, and programs catering to individuals with disabilities, mental illnesses, the elderly, and women empowerment.

Under the terms of the MOU, Nirvana Temple has generously agreed to provide land for the construction of the Myanmar Society Temple and the establishment of a branch office of Hswagata in Congo, fostering deeper ties between the two entities.

Additionally, Nirvana Temple acknowledges and embraces the 15 principles formulated by Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum, which will guide their collaborative efforts throughout the duration of the agreement.

The MOU, set to commence upon signing and remain in effect for three years, underscores the mutual commitment of both organizations to work together towards common goals while upholding the principles of mutual support, cooperation, and respect.

In the event of any dispute, both parties have pledged to resolve issues amicably through consultation and negotiation, in adherence to the laws of Myanmar governing jurisdiction.

Both Bante Pannabodhi and Bhikkhu Indasoma, as duly authorized representatives of their respective organizations, expressed optimism and enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing its potential to positively impact communities and promote the teachings of Buddhism on a global scale.

For media inquiries and further information, please contact:

Nirvana Temple:

Bante Pannabodhi

pannabodhi@gmail.com

+243 840542771 / +243997106098

Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum, Myanmar:

Bhikkhu Indasoma

indasoma@hswagata.com

+95 9 79 888 4129