key term - Anagarika dharmapala

Definition

Anagarika Dharmapala was a prominent Sri Lankan Buddhist reformer and activist in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for his efforts to promote Buddhism in the face of colonial influence and Christian missionary activity. His work included the establishment of organizations, the promotion of Buddhist education, and the revival of Buddhist practices, which significantly shaped Buddhism's interaction with Western culture and scientific thought during that era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Anagarika Dharmapala was instrumental in founding the Maha Bodhi Society in 1891, aimed at promoting Buddhist education and protecting Buddhist sites in India.
2. He was a strong advocate for the revival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, emphasizing its relevance and importance in a changing world influenced by Western ideals.
3. Dharmapala's efforts included writing extensively on Buddhism, addressing both academic audiences and the general public to raise awareness about Buddhist teachings.
4. His travels to countries like America and England helped him promote Buddhism internationally, introducing Western audiences to its philosophies and practices.
5. Dharmapala's work inspired many other movements within Buddhism, encouraging a sense of pride and identity among Buddhists facing colonial challenges.

Review Questions

• How did Anagarika Dharmapala contribute to the revival of Buddhism during the colonial era?
  • Anagarika Dharmapala played a key role in the revival of Buddhism by founding the Maha Bodhi Society and advocating for Buddhist education. His efforts helped to reestablish Buddhist practices that had been diminished under colonial rule. By promoting awareness and respect for Buddhism, he aimed to empower Sri Lankan Buddhists and protect their cultural heritage against Western influences.
• In what ways did Anagarika Dharmapala's work intersect with Western culture and science?
  • Dharmapala's work often addressed Western cultural ideas and scientific advancements while promoting Buddhism as a rational and modern religion. He engaged with Western scholars and audiences to present Buddhist philosophy as compatible with contemporary values. His approach not only defended Buddhism against colonial narratives but also sought to position it as a viable spiritual alternative within a modern context shaped by Western thought.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of Anagarika Dharmapala's efforts on the global perception of Buddhism today.
  • The long-term impacts of Anagarika Dharmapala's efforts are significant in shaping how Buddhism is perceived globally. By positioning Buddhism as a modern, rational belief system during his travels abroad, he laid the groundwork for its acceptance and integration into Western spiritual discourse. This has led to a broader interest in Buddhism as a philosophy, influencing contemporary mindfulness practices and intercultural dialogue. His legacy continues to resonate, encouraging ongoing discussions about the relevance of Buddhism in an increasingly globalized world.

Related terms

Buddhist Modernism:

A movement that seeks to adapt Buddhist teachings and practices to modern contexts, often in response to Western influences and changing societal norms.

Theosophy: A spiritual movement that emerged in the late 19th century, promoting the exploration of spirituality through the blending of various religious traditions, including Buddhism.

Colonialism: The practice of acquiring control over foreign territories, leading to significant cultural and social changes in colonized societies, including the suppression and alteration of indigenous beliefs like Buddhism.