Island Hermitage

Island Hermitage, situated on Polgasduwa island in Dodanduwa, Galle District, Sri Lanka, is a renowned Buddhist forest monastery. Founded in 1911 by Venerable Nyanatiloka Mahathera, it holds significant historical importance as the first center for Theravada Buddhist study and practice established by and for Westerners. The hermitage has played a crucial role in fostering the connection between Theravada Buddhism in the West and its traditional roots.

Life and Historical Context

The hermitage is located in Ratgama Lake, a salt-water lagoon approximately 2 km from the coast near Dodanduwa. It comprises two islands, Polgasduwa and Metiduwa, characterized by dense jungle vegetation and abundant wildlife. The environment is described as hot and humid, but the forest canopy provides a comfortable climate for meditation.

Historically, Island Hermitage was legally acquired by the Sangha in 1914 through the donation of a Swiss supporter, Monsieur Bergier. Despite interruptions from two world wars, it has been a place where Western and Sinhalese monks and laymen have lived, studied, practiced, and disseminated the Dhamma. During World War I, German monks were interned, and the hermitage fell into ruin, requiring rebuilding by Ven. Nyanatiloka upon his return in 1926. The outbreak of World War II led to further internment of German monks, but the hermitage was preserved and improved, with the adjacent island of Metiduwa officially donated by Lady Evadne de Silva.

Key Features and Lifestyle

The hermitage features a chapter house (Sīmā) built on the lake, serving as a gathering place for monks to perform monastic procedures, including fortnightly Pāṭimokkha recitations. Monastics at Island Hermitage practice walking for alms daily, except on full moon days when they are offered meals by devotees.

A notable asset of Island Hermitage is its extensive library, which houses a wide array of Buddhist and non-Buddhist collections suitable for both monastic study and scholarly research. A unique aspect is its collection of the Pāli Canon in six different scripts. Although many records are believed to have been lost due to poor maintenance, the library's collection has grown significantly over time. In 2016, repairs were carried out to protect the collection, and as of 2018, the library is rehoused in an air-conditioned room accessible to monks and laity.

Current Status and Projects

Since 2003, Island Hermitage has been managed by a group of young Sri Lankan monks. Currently, there is an ongoing project by monks from the Galduwa tradition to digitally scan and preserve the antique books in the library, aiming to create an electronic catalog for efficient research while keeping the physical collection intact. The hermitage continues to be an active center for Buddhist study and practice.