An Analysis on Trends in Using Pali Thripitaka as an Electronic Source

Abstract

Research question of this study is to identify whether Pali Thripitaka has been prepared formally for using as an electronic source. Objective of this study is to identify the obstacles encountered in using Thripitaka as an electronic source. A formal survey was carried out to implement a suitable method as a solution for the issues. The study was carried out with primary and secondary data. As the online survey does not support to identify the user related issues, interviews were conducted for collecting data during the research. Sthirawadaya or Therawadaya, one of the branches of Buddhism is based on the teachings of Thripitaka. The Pali term Pitaka defines the basket or the container. There are three Thripitaka in Lord Buddha’s teaching and it is known as Thripitaka. Dharmaya and Vinaya were divided into Thripitaka during the first Dharma Sangayana. Thripitaka was transmitted for generation to generation through the process memorizing by the Rahath Thero. For the first time in 80 AC during the reign of King Walagambahu, the Thripitaka was written in books at Aluwiharaya Temple, Mathale. When Thripitaka become an electronic source via internet, there were advantages such as user friendliness and cost effectiveness. This electronic version of Thripitaka was much supportive for opening Buddhist philosophy to the world. Thus, there are various issues and obstacles encountered by the users in referring Thripitaka as an electronic source. It was identified during the research that the E-book method should be used instead of PDF version in both internal and external programs. Few selected sections of Thripitaka were referred as a case study during the study in order to introduce the Thripitaka as an E-book that can be read page by page with accurate pronunciation, with automatic page system. Attention is focused onto create internet extensions for searching more details. Several software applications were used in creating this E-book. User friendliness and creating interesting in readers are the other expected objectives of this research.