Asanga Buwaneka Divulwewa

  What is Buddhism? Buddhism, one of the world's major religions, originated in ancient India over 2,500 years ago with the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, meaning "the Awakened One." It offers a path to enlightenment through understanding the nature of suffering, ethical living, and mental cultivation. Buddhism's influence has spread across Asia and, more recently, to the West, impacting cultures, philosophies, and spiritual practices globally. The Life of the Buddha Siddhartha Gautama was born into a royal family in the kingdom of Kapilavastu, in present-day Nepal, around the 5th century BCE. Despite his luxurious upbringing, Siddhartha was deeply troubled by the suffering he saw in the world. At the age of 29, he renounced his royal life and embarked on a quest to understand and overcome suffering. After years of ascetic practices and meditation, he attained enlightenment while meditating under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. From then on, he was...

  Expectations as the Thief of Joy: A Buddhist Perspective   In the hustle and bustle of modern life, the phrase "Expectations is the thief of joy" resonates deeply with many. This adage encapsulates a truth long recognized in Buddhist philosophy, where the interplay between expectations, suffering, and joy is a central theme. Understanding Expectations in Buddhism In Buddhism, expectations are often linked to attachment and desire, two of the primary causes of suffering (dukkha) as outlined in the Four Noble Truths. The Buddha taught that human beings are naturally inclined to form attachments to outcomes, possessions, and even people. These attachments create expectations, which in turn, lead to disappointment and suffering when reality does not align with our preconceived notions. The Nature of Suffering According to the First Noble Truth, life inherently involves suffering. This suffering comes not only from obvious sources such as illness, loss, and death but also from m...

  Breaking the Stigma and Promoting Inclusivity   In a world often preoccupied with conventional standards of success and happiness, the voices and experiences of disabled individuals can sometimes be overlooked or marginalized. However, it is crucial to recognize that disability does not diminish the right to happiness. Every individual, regardless of their physical or mental abilities, deserves the opportunity to lead a fulfilling and joyful life. Society often perpetuates the notion that happiness is contingent upon certain external factors such as wealth, physical appearance, or social status. This perspective can inadvertently exclude those with disabilities, as their experiences may not align with conventional norms. However, happiness is not solely determined by these external markers; rather, it is an internal state of being that transcends physical limitations. It is essential to acknowledge the diversity within the disabled community and recognize that each individu...

  Understanding the Significance of Pratītyasamutpāda in Buddha's Teaching   Pratītyasamutpāda, often translated as "dependent origination" or "dependent arising," is a fundamental concept in Buddhist philosophy. It elucidates the interconnectedness and interdependence of all phenomena, offering profound insights into the nature of existence, suffering, and the path to liberation. Rooted deeply in the teachings of the Buddha, Pratītyasamutpāda holds immense significance in understanding the core principles of Buddhism. At its essence, Pratītyasamutpāda describes the chain of causation, asserting that all phenomena arise and cease dependent on multiple causes and conditions. It posits that nothing exists in isolation; rather, everything is intrinsically linked to a web of causes and effects. This concept is articulated through the twelve links of dependent origination, illustrating how ignorance, craving, and clinging lead to suffering and perpetuate the cycle of...

  The Concept of Consciousness in Buddhism   In the rich tapestry of Buddhist philosophy, the concept of vignāṇa holds a profound significance. Often translated as "consciousness" or "discernment," vignāṇa encapsulates the dynamic interplay between cognition, perception, and awareness in the Buddhist understanding of the mind. This intricate concept sheds light on the nature of human experience and serves as a cornerstone in the quest for liberation from suffering.  Rooted in the foundational teachings of the Buddha, vignāṇa plays a pivotal role in the framework of the Five Aggregates (pañcakkhandha). According to Buddhist doctrine, sentient existence is characterized by the interdependence of five aggregates: form (rūpa), feeling (vedanā), perception (saññā), mental formations (saṅkhāra), and consciousness (vignāṇa). Among these aggregates, vignāṇa occupies a central position, representing the cognitive faculty responsible for the apprehension and interpretation o...

Examining Special Support Offered by Organizations Amidst the Economic Crisis of 2022   Introduction: The year 2022 brought forth unprecedented challenges, as the global economy grappled with the repercussions of the ongoing economic crisis. Businesses, large and small, faced severe disruptions, prompting organizations worldwide to rethink their strategies to weather the storm. In response to these adversities, many companies stepped up to offer special support measures to their employees, customers, and communities. This article delves into a survey conducted to analyze the special support initiatives undertaken by organizations during the economic crisis of 2022. Understanding the Economic Crisis of 2022: Before delving into the survey findings, it's crucial to comprehend the economic landscape of 2022. The crisis was primarily fueled by a confluence of factors, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressures, and geopolitical tensions. T...