Anagarika Dharmapala

 

Anagarika Dharmapala: The Beacon of Buddhist Revival

 

Anagarika Dharmapala, born Don David Hewavitarne on September 17, 1864, in Colombo, Sri Lanka (then Ceylon), was a towering figure in the revival of Buddhism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A dedicated reformer and advocate for Buddhist education and practice, Dharmapala's life and work had a profound impact on the global perception of Buddhism. His efforts in restoring Buddhist sites, promoting Buddhist teachings, and establishing educational institutions have left an indelible mark on the history of Buddhism.

Early Life and Education

Dharmapala was born into a wealthy and devoutly Buddhist family. His father, Don Carolis Hewavitarne, was a successful businessman, and his mother, Mallika Dharmagunawardhana, was deeply involved in religious and charitable activities. This nurturing environment imbued Dharmapala with a strong sense of religious and social responsibility from an early age.

He received his early education at Christian missionary schools, where he was exposed to Western ideas and the English language. This education played a significant role in shaping his ability to communicate and engage with a global audience later in life. However, the colonial education system also sparked in him a desire to revive and preserve the cultural and religious heritage of his homeland.

Awakening and Commitment to Buddhism

Dharmapala's journey towards becoming a staunch advocate for Buddhism began in earnest after he attended a lecture by Colonel Henry Steel Olcott, a co-founder of the Theosophical Society. Inspired by Olcott's dedication to the revival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Dharmapala decided to dedicate his life to the cause. He adopted the name Anagarika, meaning "homeless one," signifying his renunciation of worldly life while not formally taking monastic vows.

Founding the Mahabodhi Society

One of Dharmapala's most significant contributions was the founding of the Mahabodhi Society in 1891. The primary aim of the society was to restore the ancient Buddhist sites in India, particularly the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, which had fallen into disrepair under centuries of neglect and control by Hindu priests.

Dharmapala's efforts in this regard were monumental. He tirelessly campaigned for the restoration and proper management of the Mahabodhi Temple, which he saw as the most sacred site in Buddhism. His perseverance paid off in 1949 when the management of the temple was handed over to a committee that included Buddhists for the first time in modern history.

Global Mission and Outreach

Anagarika Dharmapala was not content with merely revitalizing Buddhism in Sri Lanka and India; he sought to spread the teachings of the Buddha across the globe. In 1893, he traveled to the United States to participate in the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago. His eloquent speeches and passionate advocacy for Buddhism garnered significant attention and respect.

During his time in the West, Dharmapala established the first Theravada Buddhist temple in the United States, the Buddhist Temple of Chicago. He also traveled extensively in Europe, giving lectures and establishing contacts with prominent scholars and religious leaders. His efforts were instrumental in laying the groundwork for the spread of Buddhism in the Western world.

Educational and Social Reforms

Dharmapala was deeply committed to education as a means of uplifting and empowering individuals. He established schools and educational institutions that provided both secular and religious education. The most notable of these is the Ananda College in Colombo, founded in 1886, which became a leading institution for Buddhist education in Sri Lanka.

He also advocated for social reforms, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct and social responsibility. Dharmapala was a vocal critic of the caste system and other social injustices, and he promoted the idea of social equality and universal compassion as core tenets of Buddhist practice.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite his many achievements, Dharmapala's life was not without challenges and controversies. His efforts to reclaim Buddhist sites in India were met with resistance from various quarters, including Hindu priests who had control over these sites. His outspoken nature and uncompromising stance on certain issues also led to conflicts with both colonial authorities and local leaders.

Furthermore, Dharmapala's views on race and religion have been the subject of criticism. Some of his writings and speeches reflect a nationalistic and at times, a racially charged tone, which can be seen as problematic from a modern perspective. It is important to view these aspects within the historical context of colonialism and the struggle for cultural and religious identity.

Legacy and Impact

Anagarika Dharmapala's legacy is vast and multifaceted. He is remembered as a tireless advocate for the revival of Buddhism and a pioneer in bringing Buddhist teachings to the global stage. His efforts in restoring and preserving Buddhist heritage sites have ensured that these sacred places continue to inspire and attract pilgrims from around the world.

The institutions he founded, such as the Mahabodhi Society and Ananda College, continue to play a crucial role in promoting Buddhist education and practice. Dharmapala's vision of a global Buddhist community has, in many ways, been realized, with Buddhism now firmly established in many parts of the world.

Moreover, Dharmapala's life serves as an inspiration for those committed to the principles of compassion, ethical conduct, and social justice. His dedication to the upliftment of society through education and his unwavering commitment to the preservation of cultural heritage remain relevant and inspiring to this day.

 

Anagarika Dharmapala's life was a testament to the power of dedication and conviction in the pursuit of a noble cause. His efforts to revive and promote Buddhism have had a lasting impact on the religion's presence and perception worldwide. While his life and work were not without challenges and controversies, his contributions to the Buddhist revival movement and his vision of a global Buddhist community are undeniable. Anagarika Dharmapala remains a revered figure in the annals of Buddhist history, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike.

 

            By

Asanga Divulwewa

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