"🌺All Actions are Either Dukkha or Magga🌺

#All_actions_lead_to_dukkha:
- Breaking the five precepts leads to lower realms
- #Is_this_happiness_or_suffering? It's suffering

Even wholesome actions (puññābhisaṅkhāra):
- Giving (dāna) for human/deva happiness
- Keeping precepts (sīla)
These lead to the five aggregates (khandhas) - human or deva birth.

Does getting these khandhas free us from aging, sickness, death? No! #Where_does_it_end? In dukkha!

Even developing concentration (samādhi):
- The 40 meditation objects
- Jhānas leading to #āneñjābhisaṅkhāra (formless realm kamma)
- Still leads to becoming (bhava)

#From_the_perspective_of_the_Noble_Truths - it's all dukkha!

We must understand:
- The five aggregates
- The sense bases
- The elements
- The Four Noble Truths
- Dependent Origination

These teachings only come when a Buddha appears. We must investigate carefully!"
"Let's examine directly with the 'eyeglasses of wisdom' the Buddha gave us:

When we think we see a 'person':
#Do_we_see_a_person_or_just_color/form? Just rūpa.

When we touch what we think is a 'person':
#Do_we_find_a_person_or_just_sounds? Just sounds.

When we smell or taste:
#Do_we_find_a_person_or_just_sensations? Just sensations.
This is #rūpakkhandha.

When we feel with the body:
#Do_we_find_a_person_or_hot_and_cold? Just temperature (uṇha-tejo, sīta-tejo).

The knowing of these sensations:
- Not just one consciousness
- Includes feeling (vedanā)
- Perception (saññā)
- Mental formation (cetanā)

These four nāma-khandhas:
- Don't arise by themselves
- Not created by Brahmas
- Not created by an eternal god
- Not created by Vishnu

They arise from conditions:
- Two types of rūpa
- Kamma, citta, utu, āhāra

This is direct investigation of reality, seeing things as they truly are rather than how they appear conventionally."

"#Seeing_effects_arising_from_causes:
- Not a person, but five aggregates
- #What_we_find_is_not_beings_but_five_aggregates

When we see this:
- Identity view (sakkāya-diṭṭhi) falls away
- #Doubt_(vicikicchā)_ceases
- Āsavas of wrong view and ignorance end

The five aggregates:
- Form changes and breaks up
- Feeling, perception, formations, consciousness arise and pass
- #Do_we_find_aggregates_or_their_absence?
- Seeing impermanence is Path (magga)

#Working_with_the_Path:
- Path knowledge leads to Cessation (nirodha)
- #Nirodho_nibbānam
- When ignorance ceases, craving ceases
- Three rounds of dependent origination break

#When_Path_truth_enters_Nirodha_follows:
- Defilements cycle ceases
- Kamma cycle ceases
- Results cycle ceases
- This is Nibbāna

#Here_is_origin_and_suffering
#There_is_path_and_cessation

But remember:
#Until_we_hear_these_teachings
We must still make wholesome kamma
Otherwise #that_leads_straight_to_lower_realms"

the rarity of encountering the Buddha's teachings

"#Wisdom_only_comes_when_a_Buddha_appears. #Empty_kappas_are_more_common. This is Bhadda-kappa with five Buddhas - Kakusandha, Konāgamana, Kassapa, Gotama, and Metteyya yet to come.

How precious to be born human during a Buddha's dispensation! #We_must_make_this_rare_opportunity_worthwhile. Without breaking sakkāya-diṭṭhi, can we escape the lower realms?

Consider the Buddhas numerous as sand grains in the Ganges - have we met them? #We_were_in_hell_realms.

When Ānanda asked about wholesome and unwholesome deeds among beings, the Buddha compared wholesome deeds to dust on his fingernail and #unwholesome_deeds_to_all_earth_in_the_universe.

Compare lifespans:
- Human: 100 years
- Highest Brahma: 84,000 kappas
- Hell realm: When comparing Brahma lifespan to hell realm, #Brahma_life_is_like_one_toss_of_a_stone

#Human_life_is_extremely_brief. Don't take it lightly. This isn't my teaching - it's from #the_arahant_Mogok_Sayadaw."

Sadhu! Together let us keep the Dharma wheel rolling.

The Role of Copyright Claims in the Museum's Operations

Copyright claims in the context of a museum like Hswagata would typically pertain to the intellectual property associated with various aspects of the museum's work. This may include copyrighted materials related to exhibitions, publications, educational content, and digital assets. The museum would use copyright to protect its original content, ensuring that it has control over how it's used and preventing unauthorized reproduction or distribution. Copyright claims may also extend to the museum's branding and logo.

Governance and Operations of Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum , Myanmar.

6.1 Advisory Committee

The Advisory Committee of Hswagata plays a pivotal role in guiding the institution's strategic decisions and ensuring alignment with the upper Hswagata 15 principles and modern management practices. Comprising distinguished scholars, spiritual leaders, and experts in various fields, this committee provides valuable insights and recommendations to steer the institution towards its mission. Their collective wisdom and experience help maintain a delicate balance between preserving tradition and adapting to contemporary challenges.

6.2 Patrons

Hswagata is honored to have a diverse group of Patrons who are deeply committed to the museum's mission. These individuals, renowned for their philanthropic endeavors and dedication to the preservation of Buddhist relics, provide critical financial and moral support. They serve as ambassadors for Hswagata, spreading awareness of its work and values to a global audience. The Patrons ensure that the institution has the necessary resources to fulfill its mission while upholding the principles of transparency and accountability in their interactions.

6.3 Central Committee

The Central Committee is the governing body responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of Hswagata. Comprising dedicated individuals who are deeply aligned with the upper Hswagata 15 principles, the Central Committee ensures that the institution's activities adhere to its mission and values. They work diligently to maintain organizational transparency, ethical conduct, and financial responsibility. This committee's leadership is crucial in fostering an environment of trust and integrity.

6.4 Central Executive Committee (CEC)

The Central Executive Committee (CEC) is tasked with implementing the strategic vision and initiatives of Hswagata. Comprising individuals with expertise in various domains, including museum management, preservation, and education, the CEC ensures that the institution's programs are aligned with its mission. They utilize modern management practices to drive efficiency and innovation while upholding the upper Hswagata 15 principles. The CEC is responsible for setting clear objectives, monitoring progress, and adapting strategies to meet evolving challenges.

6.5 International Relationship Development Team

In an increasingly interconnected world, the International Relationship Development Team plays a crucial role in fostering partnerships and collaborations. Comprising professionals skilled in diplomacy and international relations, this team seeks to expand Hswagata's global reach and impact. They engage with individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide to promote interfaith understanding, exchange ideas, and work together towards common goals. By adhering to the upper Hswagata 15 principles, they ensure that these collaborations uphold the institution's core values of reverence, authenticity, compassion, and wisdom.

6.6 Hswagata Improvement Team

The Hswagata Improvement Team is dedicated to continuous improvement and innovation within the institution. Comprising individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise, this team assesses current practices, identifies areas for enhancement, and implements necessary changes. They leverage modern management practices and data-driven decision-making to optimize processes, enhance visitor experiences, and streamline operations. The Improvement Team operates in alignment with the upper Hswagata 15 principles, ensuring that any changes uphold the institution's values and mission.

Good Governance Practices

Hswagata's governance framework is rooted in good governance practices, which are essential for effective and ethical management. These practices include:

Transparency: 

Hswagata maintains transparency in its operations, financial transactions, and decision-making processes, ensuring that stakeholders have access to relevant information.

Accountability: 

The institution is accountable to its stakeholders, including donors, visitors, and the public, by consistently adhering to its mission, principles, and ethical standards.

Responsibility: 

The governance structure emphasizes individual and collective responsibility in decision-making, ensuring that actions align with the institution's values.

Participation: 

Hswagata encourages active participation of all stakeholders in the decision-making process, fostering a sense of ownership and inclusivity.

Fairness: 

The institution upholds fairness in all its dealings, treating individuals and organizations equitably and without discrimination.

Efficiency: 

Modern management practices are employed to ensure efficient use of resources, streamlined processes, and the achievement of organizational goals.

Adaptability: 

Hswagata's governance framework recognizes the need to adapt to changing circumstances and challenges, enabling the institution to remain resilient and relevant.

6.7 Our Dedicated Team

At Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum, we are more than just an institution; we are a dedicated group of individuals who share a profound commitment to the preservation, promotion, and understanding of Buddhism. Our organization was founded by individuals and scholars who deeply value the teachings of Buddhism and are impassioned about sharing them with the world. Together, we form a cohesive team of experts hailing from diverse fields, including research, education, management, and peace-building. Our collective efforts are united by a common purpose: to safeguard the Buddha tooth Relics, advance Buddhist knowledge, and nurture a global community rooted in peace and understanding.

Kamma and death-proximate consciousness

"The Mogok Sayadaw taught like a football analogy: #no_matter_how_good_the_play_without_scoring_a_goal_you_don't_succeed.

'Appamādena sampādetha' - #don't_forget_your_wholesome_deeds. Remember your dāna and sīla.

Even King Asoka, unmatched in generosity, #couldn't_remember his good deeds at death. Neither dāna nor sīla came to mind. With delusion leading consciousness, he became a python in the four woeful states.

But if wholesome mind states arise at death, remembering one's good deeds, #wouldn't_one_achieve_human_or_deva_birth?

#Āciṇṇaka_kamma_āsanna_kamma - habitual and death-proximate kamma are crucial.

#Just_before_consciousness_ceases, unwholesome kamma-nimitta appears like seeing all past unwholesome actions - killing, stealing, lying - #like_photographs_in_sequence.

For hell-bound beings, they see flames, black dogs, hell beings. #These_are_gati_nimitta. For petas, they see cliffs; for animals, forests.

For wholesome kamma-nimitta, one might recall keeping precepts, discussing Dhamma, offering alms, serving the Sangha. #This_is_kamma_nimitta.

For human rebirth, one sees reddish maternal fluids. For deva rebirth, celestial mansions and gardens appear. #Consciousness_ceases_with_gati_nimitta_for_deva_realm_birth. #When_kamma_nimitta_appears_gati_nimitta_follows."

The Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum: A Sacred Journey

In the quiet sanctum of Myanmar, where history and spirituality converge, lies a remarkable testament to the legacy of the Buddha. Sao Dhammasami, a devout custodian of ancient relics, embarked on a sacred mission that unfolded over several years, culminating in the creation of the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum.

The journey began in 2016, a time when Sao Dhammasami fervently dedicated himself to the collection of Buddha relics from far-flung corners of the world. His unwavering commitment led to a profound revelation in 2021, prompting him to establish the museum that would safeguard these sacred treasures. Originally known as the Hswagata Buddha Relics Museum, it would later bear a name befitting its noble purpose: the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum.

In the pages of history, October 18, 2022, holds a sacred significance. On this auspicious day, Venerable Indaka, Mr Thura Kyaw @ Myoe Min Khine and Mr. Htin Kyaw Hlaing, and three other dedicated colleagues embarked on a pilgrimage from Yangon to the Southern Shan State. Their purpose was profound – to create copies of the Buddha's real tooth relics, bestowing a sacred boon upon countless worshipers. In the heart of Southern Shan State, nestled within Hswagata branch No.1, a spiritual odyssey of unparalleled significance began.

On the dawn of October 20, 2022, the museum's hallowed halls echoed with the whisper of devotion. The team, guided by faith and reverence, embarked on a meticulous process. With skillful hands, they crafted an intricate mold from the original tooth relic, breathing life into an exquisite copy. This labor of love and devotion would ultimately yield 20 magnificent replicas, each carrying the spiritual essence of the Buddha's timeless wisdom and compassion.

The Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum stands as a testament to Sao Dhammasami's unwavering dedication to preserving and sharing the sacred heritage of the Buddha. It is a place where history converges with spirituality, a sanctuary where seekers of enlightenment can immerse themselves in the profound wisdom of the Buddha. The museum's journey, from collection to preservation, mirrors the timeless journey of the Buddha himself, offering a sacred connection to those who seek solace and enlightenment in its hallowed halls.

Buddhism, Sacred Relics, and Preservation

Buddhism and Its Teachings

Buddhism is one of the world's major religions, founded by Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, in India over 2,500 years ago. It emphasizes the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path as the guiding principles for achieving enlightenment and liberation from suffering (Gethin, 1998).

Central to Buddhism is the reverence for sacred relics, including bodily relics such as teeth, bones, and ashes of the Buddha himself (Trainor, 2004). These relics are believed to possess spiritual power and are enshrined in stupas and museums worldwide.

2. Significance of Sacred Relics in Buddhism

Buddhist relics are regarded as a tangible connection to the Buddha's life and teachings, fostering a sense of spiritual presence and inspiration among practitioners (Wangchuk, 2019).

The veneration of relics is a deeply ingrained practice in Buddhism, symbolizing the impermanence of life and the aspiration for enlightenment (Trainor, 2015).

3. Preservation and Authentication of Buddhist Relics

The preservation of Buddhist relics is of paramount importance to ensure their longevity and continued spiritual significance (Lokesh, 2000). This process involves proper storage, conservation, and protection against theft or damage.

Scientific methods, such as DNA and carbon-14 testing, have been employed to authenticate the origin and age of Buddhist relics (Bronk Ramsey et al., 2009). These methods have played a crucial role in verifying the authenticity of sacred relics.

4. Museums and Cultural Institutions

Museums and cultural institutions dedicated to Buddhism, such as the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum, serve as custodians of sacred relics, providing a space for worship, education, and research (Barnett, 2018).

These institutions play a pivotal role in promoting Buddhist values, interfaith dialogue, and peace-building initiatives (Low, 2020).

5. Interfaith Dialogue and Peace

Buddhism's emphasis on compassion and non-violence has made it a key player in interfaith dialogue and efforts to promote peace (Watts, 1999). Dialogues between Buddhists and representatives of other religions have led to greater understanding and cooperation.

The promotion of mindfulness and meditation practices, rooted in Buddhism, has gained recognition as tools for fostering inner peace and global harmony (Kabat-Zinn, 2013).

6. Environmental Stewardship

The intersection of Buddhism, environmental stewardship, and sustainability has gained attention in recent years. Researchers have explored how Buddhist principles of interconnectedness and compassion for all living beings can inform environmental conservation efforts (Tucker, 2017; Grim, 2019). 

The Hswagata Museum's commitment to participating in environmental conservation aligns with these principles.

Buddhist principles of interconnectedness and compassion for all living beings have inspired environmental conservation and sustainable development initiatives (Loy, 2019). 

Buddhism encourages a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature, aligning with modern ecological concerns.

7. Cultural Exchange and Understanding

Buddhism's rich diversity of traditions and practices has led to cultural exchange and dialogue among different Buddhist lineages and with other religious and spiritual traditions (Queen, 2000). Cultural events and festivals celebrating Buddhist traditions promote global cultural appreciation and understanding.

8. Preservation of Sacred Relics:

Preserving sacred relics, particularly those attributed to Lord Buddha, is a central concern for Buddhist communities worldwide. Scholars have emphasized the historical and spiritual significance of these relics, highlighting the need for institutions like the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum to safeguard and protect them (Hamilton, 2016; Dissanayake, 2018).

9. Authentication and Scientific Verification:

The authentication of Buddhist relics has been a subject of scholarly inquiry, especially concerning their historical accuracy and authenticity. The application of scientific methods, such as DNA and Carbon-14 testing, has become an essential aspect of verifying the legitimacy of sacred relics. The Hswagata Museum's collaboration with institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum in conducting such tests is seen as a groundbreaking approach to confirming the relics' genuineness ( Letter from the king 2023) 

10. Interfaith Dialogue and Peace-Building:

The Hswagata Museum's commitment to interfaith dialogue and peace-building aligns with broader efforts to bridge religious and cultural divides. Existing literature emphasizes the role of Buddhist institutions in fostering dialogue among different faith traditions and promoting mutual respect, tolerance, and understanding (Gyatso, 2012; Shankar, 2017). 

The museum's dedication to these principles contributes to global harmony and peaceful coexistence.

11. Cultural Exchange and Education:

Cultural exchange and educational initiatives have emerged as crucial components of preserving and promoting Buddhist relics. The Hswagata Museum's involvement in organizing international conferences, workshops, and cultural events underscores the importance of such activities in fostering cultural appreciation, mutual learning, and the dissemination of Buddhist values (Bhattacharya, 2015; Hatcher, 2018).

12. Challenges and Sustainability:

Preserving sacred relics and promoting peace come with inherent challenges. Scholars have identified issues related to ethical tourism, resource management, and maintaining the sanctity of religious sites as significant concerns (Bailey, 2017; Smith, 2019). Understanding these challenges and developing strategies for sustainable museum management is crucial for institutions like Hswagata.

13. Outreach and Global Impact:

The impact of Buddhist institutions extends beyond their physical boundaries. Scholars have emphasized the importance of outreach programs, meditation practices, and peace education in promoting mindfulness and contributing to a more harmonious world (Nhat Hanh, 2012; Miller, 2016). The Hswagata Museum's dedication to these initiatives reflects its commitment to making a global impact.

This literature review provides a foundational understanding of the key themes related to Buddhism, sacred relics, their preservation, and their broader impact on interfaith dialogue, peace-building, environmental stewardship, and cultural exchange. It sets the stage for further exploration and research in these areas.

The literature underscores the significance of institutions like the Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum in preserving sacred relics, promoting cultural understanding, fostering peace, and contributing to the broader goals of Buddhism. It highlights the museum's innovative approach to authentication, interfaith dialogue, cultural exchange, and environmental stewardship, while acknowledging the challenges inherent in its mission. 

The research objectives of this study aim to provide a deeper understanding of the museum's multifaceted contributions and suggest recommendations for its continued success and impact.

Goals of Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum

Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum has outlined a visionary set of goals that underscore its commitment to the preservation of Buddhist heritage and the promotion of peace, education, and cultural understanding. These goals include:

State-of-the-Art Facility: 

To establish a state-of-the-art facility that ensures the proper preservation, storage, and display of the Buddha Tooth Relics.

Authenticity Validation:

To validate the authenticity of the bodily relics of Gautama the Buddha through extensive scientific testing and documentation.

Research and Training: 

To offer research and training programs for individuals interested in studying and understanding Buddhism, equipping them with knowledge and tools for personal and spiritual growth.

Education Collaboration:

To collaborate with educational institutions and governmental bodies to implement best practices in curriculum development and effective teaching methodologies that incorporate Buddhist values.

Peace-Building Initiatives: 

To actively engage in peace-building initiatives, promoting mindfulness and meditation practices for individuals and communities worldwide, fostering global harmony and understanding.

International Conferences: 

To organize and facilitate international conferences, retreats, and workshops that bring together Buddhist practitioners, scholars, and spiritual leaders for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas.

Interfaith Dialogue: 

To promote interfaith dialogue, religious freedom, and tolerance, fostering mutual understanding and respect among different religious and spiritual traditions.

Support and Assistance: 

To provide support and assistance to Buddhist practitioners and communities globally, offering guidance, resources, and aid as needed.

Environmental Conservation: 

To actively participate in environmental conservation and sustainable development initiatives in alignment with Buddhist principles, promoting a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature.

Cultural Exchange: 

To serve as a platform for cultural exchange and understanding, organizing art, music, and cultural events that celebrate the diversity and richness of Buddhist traditions worldwide.

Uncertain Future of the Ashoka Rock Edict in Sasaram

Sasaram is a major town located midway between Bodh Gaya and Varanasi, in Kaimur District, Bihar. On top of a hill in this area lies a rock inscription of Emperor Ashoka, engraved on a stone slab in the Prakrit language using the Brahmi script. The inscription reads as follows:

Line 1: Devānaṃ piye hevaṃ āha ..... piyāni savacchālāni (saṃvaccharāni) aṃ upāsake sumi na cu bāḍhaṃ alakante
Line 2: Savacchale (saṃvacchare) sādhike aṃ .......... etena ca antalena jambudīpasi anmisandevā santa
Line 3: Munisā misandeva kaṭā pala... iyaṃ phale no ... yaṃ mahatala ca cakiye pāvatave khudakena pi phala-
Line 4: Kamanīne vipule pi suaga ... kiye ālā .... ve se etāye aṭhāye iyaṃ sāvaṇe khudakā ca udālā ca pa-
Line 5: Lakamantu antā pi ca jāṇantu cilaṭhitike (ciraṭhitike) ca palākame hotu iyaṃ ca aṭhe (aṭṭhe) vadisati vipulaṃ pi ca vaṭhisati
Line 6: Diyādiyaṃ avadhiyeṇa diyaḍiyaṃ vaṭhisati iyaṃ ca sāvaṇe vivuthena dhuvaṃ sapannā lāti-
Line 7: Satā vivuthā ti 200 40 ima ca aṭhaṃ (aṭṭhaṃ) pavatesu likhāpayāthā ya...vā a..
Line 8: Thi hetā silāṭhambhā tata pi likhāpayatha ti

Translation:

“I have declared myself an upāsaka (lay follower of the Buddha) for one year, but I have not exerted much effort. A year or more has passed... and during that time, the people of Jambudīpa (India) were not associated with the devas (divine beings). Now, I have brought about a connection between humans and the devas. This is the result of effort... Not only the high-born can attain heavenly realms; even the solitary and lowly can reach them if they strive earnestly.

Therefore, this declaration has been issued for this very purpose: to encourage both the lowly and the noble to exert effort, and to inform the people in my realm of this possibility. This diligence shall endure for a long time. I will push this initiative forward significantly—by at least one and a half times its current pace.

This decree was issued while I was on tour. At that time, I had spent 256 nights on tour. Let this message be inscribed on stone. And wherever there are stone pillars throughout my empire, this message shall be inscribed there as well.”

This inscription reveals Emperor Ashoka’s personal transition after embracing Buddhism. He admits to initially being a less diligent upāsaka but later developed a deeper understanding of the Dhamma. The inscription notes that in earlier times, the people of Jambudīpa had little connection with the devas, but under Ashoka’s influence, a spiritual bond was re-established. His aim was to spiritually uplift his people, irrespective of status.

In 1969 CE (2512 BE), some members of the Muslim community began building a mosque near the site of this inscription. Over time, the area was taken over, and the historic edict was completely covered with a green cloth. Tourists and visitors were no longer allowed to view the monument.

In 2015 CE (2558 BE), the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) ordered the green cloth to be removed and declared the area a protected monument. However, the issue remains unresolved. Just last year, the official signage designating it as a government-protected site was taken down.

"Bones, Hair, teeth ,nails and Ashes: Charles Masson’s Findings of Buddha Relics in Afghanistan"

 Charles Masson and the Documentation of 74 Stupas in Afghanistan.

The stupas excavated or documented by Charles Masson during his explorations in Afghanistan between 1833 and 1838. Each stupa is described based on its location, archaeological findings, and architectural features,.The stupas excavated by Charles Masson and others in Afghanistan, particularly in the Bimaran and Kotpur regions, contained a variety of relics that provide insights into the Buddhist practices of the time.