‘Involvement of Buddhist Monks in Politics’ and Its Impact on Sri Lanka

Abstract

Buddhism has contributed to the development of culture and religion in Sri Lanka throughout its history. Buddhism practiced in Sri Lanka is believed to be more authentic and closer to the original Buddhism which was taught by the Buddha and is known as Theravada Buddhism. However, Buddhist monks Sri Lanka today are deeply involved in politics and there are Buddhist monks in many aspects of politics in Sri Lanka such as representing in the parliament, protest movements and the like. Political Buddhism seems to be fascinating to modern monks. The main objective of this research study is to identify the impact of engagement of Buddhist monks by engaging in party politics on Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Only secondary data would be used for this research study and relevant books would also be used. The pre-study source methodology would be used as the study method. As Buddhism is the main religion in Sri Lanka, it should be credited for its contribution to the society, particularly in building family values.

However, in areas such as safeguarding of individual rights and minority rights, prevention of crimes and corruption, Sri Lanka falls short of expectations of religious values. When Sri Lanka gained independence, it was considered as a model for Asia. However, during the past fifty years, politicians have used Buddhism not as a philosophy of righteousness, but as a tool for cheap political gain. The problem is not Buddhism as a philosophy or religion but the use of Political Buddhism in political activities. Many politicians and even intellectuals are confused in their interpretation of not only law and economy, but also justice, truth, and ethics based on Buddhism.