Criticisms of Buddhism: Violence and Nationalism in Buddhist Extremism

Your understanding of Buddhism typically revolves around the teachings of peace, harmony, and non-violence, often found in practices like mindfulness and meditation. However, this religion, like any other, has faced criticisms and has sometimes been linked with negative actions and beliefs. This article explores the criticisms of Buddhism, focusing on its involvement in nationalist ideologies and violent extremism, particularly in Sri Lanka.

Buddhist Extremism and Violence in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, a culturally diverse country, has seen a troubling rise in Buddhist extremism and violence against minorities, most notably Muslims. These incidents have raised concerns about the interpretation and propagation of Buddhist ideology in the nation.

For instance, in early 2018, two towns, Kandy and Ampara, experienced new clashes between Buddhist extremists and Muslims. These clashes were sparked by hate-filled posts from nationalistic Sinhala Buddhist Facebook groups, resulting in one death and significant property damage. Such incidents highlight the darker side of Buddhist revivalism and its potential to incite violence.

The Roots of Buddhist Nationalism

The origins of Buddhist revivalism in Sri Lanka can be traced back to the early 20th century, led by figures like Anagarika Dharmapala. Born in 1864 and passing away in 1933, Dharmapala was instrumental in promoting Buddhist nationalism and the idea of a Buddhist Sri Lanka. His anti-imperialist stance was as much about opposing British rule as it was about safeguarding the Buddhist way of life and cultural heritage.

Dharmapala's initiatives included fighting foreign domination, founding Buddhist schools, and fostering the Sinhala language and Buddhism in the public sphere. Although these efforts were well-meaning, they also laid the groundwork for a more aggressive form of nationalistic Buddhism that could be misused and exploited by extremist groups.

The Legacy of Dharmapala and Its Impact

Today, Sinhala nationalists continue to celebrate Dharmapala as a hero and a national saviour. Events commemorating his birthday are widely publicized in Sri Lankan media, serving as a constant reminder of his deeds. However, his legacy has been complicated by the way it has been adopted by extremist groups who use his principles to justify and incite violence.

In 1915, a significant incident occurred that highlighted the potential for Buddhist nationalist fervour to turn violent. On the occasion of a Buddhist festival procession, police tried to alter the route to avoid passing by a mosque. This decision was met with mockery from Muslims, leading to widespread riots and violence. This event resulted in the killing of 25 Muslims, injuring around 200, and damaging local mosques and Muslim businesses.

Modern Examples and Implications

The events of 2018 in Sri Lanka reflect a concerning trend in Buddhist extremism. Violent attacks and religious discrimination have become more prominent, especially targeting Muslims in the country. This has led to international scrutiny and criticism of how Buddhism is interpreted and practiced in Sri Lanka.

The broader implications of these events are significant. They highlight how religious nationalism can be manipulated to foster hatred and violence. It raises questions about the responsibility of religious leaders and extremist groups in promoting peace versus instigating conflict.

Conclusion

Buddhism, like any other major world religion, has faced criticisms related to its potential for violence and nationalism. While the core teachings of Buddhism emphasize peace and harmony, the actions and beliefs of some extremist groups have tarnished the religion's image. The examples from Sri Lanka serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of co-opting religious ideologies for nationalist and violent purposes.

Understanding these criticisms and the complex history of Buddhism is crucial for promoting a more inclusive and peaceful interpretation of the religion. It is essential to differentiate between traditional teachings and the radical interpretations that can lead to intolerance and violence.