By In recent times, the phenomenon of Buddhist monks disrobing in Sri Lanka has raised concerns about the state of the Buddhist clergy and its impact on temples and spiritual communities. Ven. Wedaruwe Upali Thero, Anunayaka of the Asgiri sect, emphasizes the need for healing minds and leading people towards spiritual development to achieve both mental and physical progress. Despite challenges, the Maha Sangha, led by Maha Nayaka Thero, continues its efforts to preserve the Buddha Order and guide the country on the right path.
Current Scenario:
Sri Lanka has about 35,000 Buddhist Priests, and it is estimated that approximately 6,000 Buddhist Priests disrobe annually. Rev. Sumanaratahana, who participated in a video discussion, said it could be very challenging for someone to disrobe in Sri Lanka, unlike in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos where temporary ordination is accepted. However, he pointed out that as most young Buddhist priests have options for higher education and employment, for those who disrobe, it is not a key issue but getting used to a new way of life could be problematic.
Spiritual Development and Temple Strengthening:
Ven. Wedaruwe Upali Thero spoke at the opening ceremony of the Sambuddha Mandira at Gonawatta Sri Jayasumanarama Temple, emphasizing the role of temples in spiritual development. He mentioned the initiatives taken by Maha Sangharatna to strengthen the minds of people, focusing on noble sacrifices to guide the nation.
Challenges Faced by the Sangha:
The disrobing of Buddhist monks has become a challenge affecting the functionality of temples, with an average of eight to ten monks leaving the priesthood daily. Former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya acknowledged this issue, expressing concern about its impact on temples in Colombo and suburbs. He highlighted the importance of addressing the challenges faced by the Sangha to ensure the continuation of Buddhism.
Global Recognition of Buddhism:
Despite internal challenges, Sri Lanka plays a crucial role in spreading the knowledge of Buddhism globally. The Speaker noted that Buddhism has gained recognition as a religion, citing examples such as Austria’s state recognition and former US President Barack Obama’s practice of meditation with a Buddha Statue. This recognition underscores the significance of Buddhism in contributing to global spiritual awareness.
Insight from an Academic Perspective:
Kate Crosby, Professor of Buddhist Studies at King’s College London, provides insights into the motivations for monkhood and disrobing in Theravada societies. She explores the reasons behind disrobing, which range from a desire for lay life to a sense of unworthiness or dissatisfaction with the Sangha. The article also addresses the social and economic challenges faced by former monks.
Call for Order in the Buddhist Congregation:
Several Buddhist priests who spoke to Lanka News Line said that there is a need to bring some sort of order into the Buddhist congregation. Many Buddhist priests pointed out that Buddhist priests getting into vociferous and controversial politics have led to the dissolution of some Buddhist priests, and if this trend continues, many more could leave.
Impact of Economic Decline:
Since the economic decline, many temples are facing difficulties, and many young Buddhist priests who are subjected to hardships are opting to disrobe, said a Chief prelate who spoke to Lanka News Line. There is a group who think that this is something not to get alarmed about because it’s common to all religions.
Observations on Europe:
Sudrama Whihena, a member of the London Buddhist Society, said, “Just look at what’s happening in Europe; the number who are joining the clergy in Europe is on a decline, and many are leaving, and the respective religious organizations are adjusting.” Whihena’s assumption was correct, as backed up by data released by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the UK and Wales. The number of Catholic priests in the UK has indeed declined over the past decade. The number of priests has been steadily decreasing since the peak in the 1960s. Between 1993 and 2010 alone, the decline was about 9.4% in the UK. As of 2011, there were about 5,264 priests in England and Wales, which is the lowest number since 1937. However, according to recent estimates, this figure has further fallen to currently 3,000 active diocesan priests in 2023.
Comparative Insight:
On the other hand, it could be argued that this may not be a fair comparison because the involvement of a Buddhist priest in day-to-day matters of Sri Lanka is much more than a Catholic priest in the UK.
Relevance of Buddhism:
The disrobing of Buddhist monks in Sri Lanka calls for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges faced by the Sangha. While the Maha Sangha continues its efforts to preserve Buddhism, there is a need for societal awareness and support. Balancing the preservation of traditions with the evolving needs of the community is crucial to ensure the sustained growth and relevance of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and beyond.
