Mahinda

Definition

Mahinda was an important Buddhist monk who is credited with bringing Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE. He was the son of Emperor Ashoka, a significant figure in spreading Buddhism across Asia, and his mission in Sri Lanka helped establish a strong Buddhist tradition that deeply influenced the culture and society of the island.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mahinda arrived in Sri Lanka during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa, who was the first monarch to officially embrace Buddhism on the island.
2. He is believed to have brought with him a relic of the Buddha, which helped to establish a strong religious connection between Sri Lanka and the core teachings of Buddhism.
3. Mahinda's efforts led to the establishment of monastic communities in Sri Lanka, which became centers for learning and preserving Buddhist scriptures.
4. The introduction of Buddhism by Mahinda resulted in significant cultural and societal changes in Sri Lanka, including the promotion of ethical living and community welfare.
5. Mahinda's legacy is commemorated by various monuments and festivals in Sri Lanka that celebrate the arrival of Buddhism on the island.

Review Questions

• How did Mahinda’s mission impact the religious landscape of Sri Lanka?
  • Mahinda's mission significantly transformed the religious landscape of Sri Lanka by introducing Buddhism as a major faith on the island. His arrival marked a turning point for King Devanampiya Tissa, who became a supporter of Buddhism, leading to its rapid spread among the populace. This shift not only established Buddhism as a central element of Sri Lankan culture but also encouraged ethical living and communal values among its people.
• Discuss the significance of Mahinda’s relationship with Emperor Ashoka in the context of Buddhism's expansion.
  • Mahinda’s connection to Emperor Ashoka is significant because it highlights how royal patronage played a crucial role in spreading Buddhism. Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism inspired Mahinda’s mission to Sri Lanka, which was part of Ashoka's broader initiative to promote Buddhist teachings across Asia. This relationship underscored the importance of political support in facilitating religious transitions and establishing enduring traditions in new regions.
• Evaluate Mahinda’s contributions to establishing monastic communities in Sri Lanka and their long-term effects on Theravada Buddhism.
  • Mahinda’s establishment of monastic communities laid the groundwork for Theravada Buddhism's enduring presence in Sri Lanka. These monastic centers became vital for teaching, preserving texts, and practicing Buddhist principles. Over time, they evolved into significant cultural institutions that not only safeguarded Buddhist teachings but also influenced education, governance, and social practices throughout Sri Lankan history. This enduring legacy solidified Theravada Buddhism's role as a foundational aspect of Sri Lankan identity and culture.

Related terms

Ashoka: An Indian emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism after converting to the faith and promoting it throughout his empire and beyond.

Buddhaghosa: A prominent ancient Indian Buddhist scholar and commentator whose works, including the 'Visuddhimagga,' greatly influenced Theravada Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Theravada: One of the oldest forms of Buddhism that focuses on the teachings of the historical Buddha and is prevalent in Sri Lanka, Thailand, and other parts of Southeast Asia.