Abhayagiriya

Abhayagiriya Vihāra

Abhayagiriya Vihāra, located in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, stands as one of the most extensive monastic ruins and a profoundly sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site. Historically, it was a dual center of religious and political power, functioning as a major monastery complex and a royal capital. Its magnificent structures, once roofed with gilt bronze or vibrantly glazed tiles, housed a thriving community of monks and attracted scholars from across the globe, reflecting its status as an international institution.

Origins and Royal Foundation

The establishment of Abhayagiriya Vihāra is attributed to King Valagamba during his second reign (89-77 BCE). The chronicle recounts that during his flight from enemies, a Jain monk named Giri taunted the king. Upon regaining his throne, King Valagamba vowed to build a vihara on the site of Giri's monastery, fulfilling his promise and naming it Abhayagiri Vihara, possibly combining his own name with that of the monk or referring to the hillock upon which it was built. This act symbolized a national resurgence and the end of Jain and Brahmin influence in the region.

A Center of Learning and Diverse Traditions

By the 1st century AD, Abhayagiriya had evolved into a significant international center, embracing diverse Buddhist philosophies. It became a focal point for Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana Buddhism, distinguishing itself from the more conservative Mahavihara. Chinese pilgrims like Faxian, who visited in 412 AD, documented Abhayagiriya as a leading Buddhist institution that studied both Hinayana and Mahayana teachings. The monastery was home to numerous eminent scholars who contributed significantly to Buddhist literature and philosophy.

Royal Patronage and Suppression

Abhayagiriya experienced periods of both significant royal patronage and suppression. Under King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD, it flourished, with the king even demolishing parts of the Mahavihara to support Abhayagiri. The monastery also held the prestigious position of housing the Tooth Relic of the Buddha in the 4th century. However, in the 12th century, King Parakkamabahu I unified the monastic orders, abolishing the distinct Abhayagiri and Jetavana traditions, leading to their gradual decline.

International Influence and Legacy

Abhayagiriya's influence extended beyond Sri Lanka, with documented religious contacts and branches established in places like Java. The practice of venerating Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva, prominent in Mahayana, continued in Sri Lanka, with traditions linking him to the present-day figure of Nātha. Despite periods of destruction and neglect, Abhayagiriya Vihāra was rediscovered in the late 19th century and has since undergone extensive archaeological excavation and restoration, notably the Abhayagiri Stupa, which was fully renovated as a UNESCO project and unveiled in 2015. Its architectural elements, including intricate guard stones and moonstones, offer insights into the social beliefs and religious practices of the era.