Hswagata Museum Founder Meets Chief Custodian of Sacred Tooth Relic Temple

In a harmonious convergence of cultural custodianship, the founder of the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum engaged in a significant meeting with Dr. Pradeep Nilanga Dela, the esteemed Chief Custodian of The Temple Of The Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, Sri Lanka. This rendezvous, marked by mutual respect and shared reverence for heritage, promised a promising alliance between two bastions of cultural preservation.

During the rendezvous, the founder of the Hswagata Museum presented Dr. Pradeep with a Certificate of Honorary Senior Advisor and Lifetime Membership, acknowledging his profound contributions to the safeguarding of the revered Buddha Tooth Relics. This gesture, a testament to Dr. Pradeep's expertise and dedication, symbolized a bond forged in the fires of cultural stewardship.

In the spirit of advocacy meeting, the Hswagata Museum founder further extended an olive branch, providing Dr. Pradeep with an exclusive profile and the annual magazine of the museum. This gesture aimed to foster a deeper understanding of the museum's endeavors and its commitment to preserving the sacred relics for future generations.

Moreover, the occasion witnessed an illuminating presentation by Indasoma, shedding light on the diverse activities and initiatives undertaken by the Hswagata Museum. Through captivating visuals and insightful narratives, the presentation showcased the museum's tireless efforts in research, conservation, and educational outreach pertaining to the Buddha Tooth Relics.

The meeting culminated in an atmosphere of mutual admiration and shared purpose, as both parties reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the rich cultural heritage embodied by the sacred relics. As guardians of tradition and custodians of history, the Hswagata Museum and The Temple Of The Sacred Tooth Relic pledged to continue their preservation and worship, ensuring the legacy of the Buddha Tooth Relics endures for eternity.

During the dialogue, Dr. Pradeep, esteemed for his custodianship of the revered relics, presented an intriguing suggestion to Indasoma Bhikkhu, advocating for the establishment of a temple rather than a museum. This proposal, born from a deep-rooted reverence for tradition and spiritual sanctity, aimed to create a sacred space devoted to the veneration and contemplation of the Buddha Tooth Relics.

Dr. Pradeep's proposal resonated with the ethos of spiritual devotion and reverence for the relics, suggesting a departure from conventional museum practices towards a more immersive and spiritually enriching experience. By envisaging a temple, Dr. Pradeep sought to encapsulate the essence of devotion and reverence that defines the cultural significance of the Buddha Tooth Relics.

Indasoma Bhikkhu, tasked with spearheading the initiative, welcomed Dr. Pradeep's proposal with open arms, recognizing the potential to create a sanctuary where devotees could engage in spiritual practices, meditation, and contemplation. This shift in focus, from a museum to a temple, underscored a deeper commitment to honoring the sacred relics and fostering a spiritual connection with devotees.

As plans for the temple take shape, it represents a new chapter in the preservation and dissemination of the cultural heritage embodied by the Buddha Tooth Relics. With Dr. Pradeep's vision guiding the way, and Indasoma Bhikkhu's dedication driving the endeavor forward, the proposed temple stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of devotion and reverence that transcends time and space.

The Greek Inscriptions of Emperor Ashoka: A Bilingual Testament from Afghanistan

Discovery & Significance

In 1958 (2501 BE), British archaeologists uncovered two remarkable Greek-Aramaic rock edicts at Chil Zena Hill and Shah-I-Khona in Kandahar, Afghanistan—ancient Alexandria in Arachosia, founded by Alexander the Great. These inscriptions reveal:

1. Ashoka’s Hellenistic Audience:

   • Kandahar housed a large Greek population post-Alexander’s conquest.

   • Ashoka (called "Piodasses" in Greek) used Greek and Aramaic to communicate his Buddhist reforms to non-Indian subjects.

2. Historical Paradox:

   • The Kalinga War (261 BCE), which caused 150,000 deaths, is documented 3,600 km away in Afghanistan—not in Odisha (Kalinga’s location). Scholars suggest Ashoka avoided inscribing it near the warzone to prevent unrest.

The Two Inscriptions

1. Shah-I-Khona Inscription (1963 CE / 2506 BE)

Content: Ashoka’s remorse after conquering Kalinga:

"In the eighth year of King Piodasses’ reign, he conquered Kalinga. 150,000 people were captured, 100,000 slain, and nearly as many perished. Then, devotion and compassion seized him... He banned the killing of living beings and urged respect for parents, teachers, and friends. Those who neglect these duties will face the king’s displeasure."

Key Themes:

• Anti-war sentiment: Rare royal admission of guilt in ancient history.

• Moral code: Echoes Greek philanthropia (humanity) and Buddhist ahimsa (non-violence).

2. Chil Zena Hill Inscription

Content: Ashoka’s 10th-year reforms:

"Ten years after his coronation, King Piodasses proclaimed the Dharma. Men have grown more pious, and the world prospers. The king abstains from killing, as do his hunters and fishermen. Those who lack restraint must obey elders, ensuring a happier life."

Key Themes:

• Environmental ethics: Early bans on hunting/fishing.

• Social harmony: Blends Buddhist values with Hellenistic ideals.

Why These Inscriptions Matter

1. Cross-Cultural Diplomacy: Ashoka tailored his message using Greek political terms (e.g., "eusebeia" for Dharma).

2. Strategic Placement: Kandahar was a Hellenistic hub—ideal for spreading edicts westward.

3. Historical Irony: The Kalinga confession appears farthest from its site, possibly to avoid inciting trauma.

Did You Know? The Greek script matches 3rd-century BCE Athenian style, proving Ashoka’s access to skilled Greek scribes.

(Note: "Piodasses" = Prakrit "Piyadassi" (Beloved of the Gods), Ashoka’s title.)

Where to See Them

The inscriptions remain in situ in Kandahar, though the region’s instability limits access.

Legacy: These edicts show Ashoka as the first ruler to merge Buddhist governance with multicultural outreach—a model for ancient globalization.

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.

 

A brief explanation of how citta occurs in response to sensory stimuli through the six sense bases

In Buddhist psychology, the arising of citta (mind) in response to sensory stimuli is described through the concept of the "six sense bases" (ṣaḍāyatana) and the "six types of consciousness" (viññāṇa). These six sense bases correspond to the six sensory organs (eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind), and the six types of consciousness arise dependent on contact between these sense bases and their respective objects.

 A brief explanation of how citta occurs in response to sensory stimuli through the six sense bases:

1. Eye (Cakkhu): The eye serves as the sense organ for visual perception. When the eye comes into contact with visible forms or objects, such as colors and shapes, eye consciousness (cakkhu viññāṇa) arises. This consciousness is responsible for perceiving visual stimuli.

2. Ear (Sota): The ear serves as the sense organ for auditory perception. When the ear comes into contact with sound vibrations, ear consciousness (sota viññāṇa) arises. This consciousness is responsible for perceiving auditory stimuli.

3. Nose (Ghāna): The nose serves as the sense organ for olfactory perception. When the nose comes into contact with odor molecules, nose consciousness (ghāna viññāṇa) arises. This consciousness is responsible for perceiving olfactory stimuli.

4. Tongue (Jivhā): The tongue serves as the sense organ for gustatory perception. When the tongue comes into contact with taste sensations, tongue consciousness (jivhā viññāṇa) arises. This consciousness is responsible for perceiving taste stimuli.

5. Body (Kāya): The body serves as the sense organ for tactile perception. When the body comes into contact with tactile sensations, such as heat, cold, pressure, or pain, body consciousness (kāya viññāṇa) arises. This consciousness is responsible for perceiving tactile stimuli.

6. Mind (Mano): The mind serves as the sense organ for mental perception. Unlike the other sense bases, which perceive external objects, the mind perceives mental objects, including thoughts, emotions, and mental images. When the mind comes into contact with mental objects, mind consciousness (mano viññāṇa) arises. This consciousness is responsible for perceiving mental stimuli.

The arising of citta through the six sense bases is described as a dynamic process of sensory experience and perception. According to Buddhist teachings, the interaction between the sense bases, sense objects, and consciousness gives rise to sensory experiences and mental phenomena, which are impermanent, unsatisfactory, and devoid of a permanent self (anatta). This understanding forms the basis for insight (vipassana) meditation and the cultivation of wisdom in Buddhism.

The Reclining Buddha of Tajikistan: A Silk Road Treasure Resurrected

Discovery & Restoration

In 1959 (2502 BE), Russian archaeologist Boris Litvinsky uncovered a monumental 13-meter-long Reclining Buddha at Ajina Tepe, a 7th-century Kushan-era monastic complex 109 km from Dushanbe. The statue, shattered into fragments, was painstakingly restored and now resides in Tajikistan’s National Museum of Antiquities (Dushanbe) as a centerpiece of Buddhist heritage in Central Asia.

Historical Significance

• Kushan-Era Legacy (1st–4th century CE): Ajina Tepe ("Demon’s Hill") was a major Silk Road monastery, hosting monks and pilgrims traveling between India and China.

• Islamic Conquest (8th century CE): The site was abandoned after Turkic-Muslim invasions, burying its treasures for over 1,200 years.

• UNESCO Recognition (1999): Declared Tajikistan’s first World Heritage Site, symbolizing the region’s pre-Islamic Buddhist past.

Thai Contributions to Preservation

The Thai government has funded three restoration campaigns for the Buddha’s museum pavilion:

1. 2004 (2547 BE): $19,000

2. 2013 (2556 BE): $10,000

3. 2022 (2565 BE): $9,500

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Why This Matters

• Cultural Resilience: The Reclining Buddha—depicting the Buddha’s final nirvana—is a rare survivor of Islamic iconoclasm.

• Diplomatic Devotion: Thailand’s donations highlight soft power through heritage diplomacy.

• Silk Road Echoes: Ajina Tepe’s art blends Gandharan and Central Asian styles, proving Buddhism’s ancient reach.

Did You Know? The statue’s elongated proportions mirror the "Bamiyan style" of Afghanistan, linking it to the wider Gandharan world.

(Note: The site’s name "Ajina Tepe" (Demon’s Hill) likely stems from later local folklore, as Islamic traditions often recast Buddhist sites as haunted.)

Blending Ancient Wisdom with Modern Learning

 Effective Teaching Skills Training Wraps Up

Date:March 12, 2024

Location:SGS Library, Makutarama Temple, Colombo 09, Sri Lanka

In a harmonious convergence of ancient teachings and modern pedagogy, the Effective Teaching Skills Packages Training concluded today at the serene surroundings of the SGS Library, nestled within the tranquil ambiance of the Makutarama Temple in Colombo 09. Organized by the esteemed Ceylon Journey Tai Sangha, this unique training program aimed to integrate the methodology of the Buddha's teachings into contemporary learning frameworks.

Under the expert guidance of Master Trainer Sao Dhammasami, renowned for his deep understanding of Buddhist philosophy, and assisted by Trainer Assistant Ven. Vilasa, participants embarked on a transformative journey spanning from March 2nd to March 12th, 2024. Each session, held from 8 PM to 10 PM, provided a sacred space for exploration and reflection on the timeless wisdom encapsulated within the Buddha's teachings.

Throughout the training, attendees were immersed in a rich tapestry of pedagogical techniques, rooted in the principles of mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom. From cultivating empathy in the classroom to fostering a conducive environment for holistic learning, participants delved into practical strategies aimed at nurturing the intellectual, emotional, and spiritual growth of their students.

"This training has been an enlightening experience, merging ancient wisdom with contemporary educational practices," remarked one participant, echoing the sentiments shared by many others. "It has not only enhanced my teaching skills but also deepened my understanding of the profound teachings of the Buddha."

As the curtains drew to a close on this transformative journey, certificates were awarded to the dedicated participants, symbolizing their commitment to embodying the principles of effective teaching and compassionate guidance. With hearts brimming with gratitude and minds illuminated by newfound insights, attendees departed the SGS Library, carrying with them the timeless teachings of the Buddha to illuminate the path of learning and enlightenment for generations to come.

The Effective Teaching Skills Packages Training stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in modern education, inspiring educators to cultivate a nurturing learning environment that transcends mere academic excellence to foster holistic growth and well-being.