K. Sri Dhammananda
K. Sri Dhammananda was a Sri Lankan Buddhist monk and scholar, widely recognized as a prominent figure for Buddhism in Malaysia. He established the Buddhist Missionary Society and authored over 47 books on Buddhism, contributing significantly to its dissemination and understanding in the region.
Key Facts
- ›Born Martin Gamage in Sri Lanka on March 18, 1919.
- ›Moved to Malaya (now Malaysia) in January 1952.
- ›Founded the Buddhist Missionary Society in 1963.
- ›Authored over 47 books on Buddhism, many translated into multiple languages.
- ›Served as the Buddhist Chief High Priest of Malaysia and Singapore.
- ›Died on August 31, 2006, in Selangor, Malaysia.
Important Relationships
- Buddhist Missionary Society
- Buddhist Maha Vihara
- Buddhist Gem Fellowship
What Buddhists Believe
Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Malaysia, Sri Lanka
Bhikkhu
About K. Sri Dhammananda
K. Sri Dhammananda, born Martin Gamage on March 18, 1919, in southern Sri Lanka, was a distinguished Buddhist monk and scholar. He is particularly recognized for his significant contributions to the propagation and understanding of Buddhism in Malaysia. His work aimed to demonstrate the compatibility of Buddhist principles with modern scientific thought.
Life and Ministry
Dhammananda relocated to the Federation of Malaya, which is now Malaysia, in January 1952. His primary purpose was to serve the spiritual needs of the burgeoning Buddhist community there. In 1963, he founded the Buddhist Missionary Society, an organization through which he disseminated his writings. These publications, often in the form of short essays and periodicals, were instrumental in presenting Buddhism in a way that resonated with contemporary society.
By 1980, Dhammananda held the position of head monk at the Buddhist Maha Vihara in Kuala Lumpur. In the same year, he lent his support to patrons of the Buddhist Maha Vihara in establishing the Buddhist Gem Fellowship. This was an English-speaking, pan-Buddhist organization dedicated to fostering the growth of Buddhism across Malaysia. He also served as the Buddhist Chief High Priest of Malaysia and Singapore.
Works and Legacy
K. Sri Dhammananda authored over 47 books on Buddhist philosophy and practice, many of which were translated into various languages, extending their influence far beyond Malaysia. His notable works include "What Buddhists Believe." He passed away on August 31, 2006, at the Subang Jaya Medical Centre in Selangor, Malaysia. Accounts from the time of his death mention auspicious signs, such as lights and auras, observed around the funeral site, reflecting the reverence with which he was held.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was K. Sri Dhammananda?
K. Sri Dhammananda was a Sri Lankan Buddhist monk and scholar, born Martin Gamage. He became a highly influential figure in spreading Buddhism, particularly in Malaysia.
When and where was K. Sri Dhammananda born?
K. Sri Dhammananda was born on March 18, 1919, in southern Sri Lanka.
What was K. Sri Dhammananda's role in Malaysia?
He moved to Malaysia in 1952 and played a vital role in administering to the Buddhist community. He founded the Buddhist Missionary Society and worked to disseminate Buddhist teachings, presenting them as compatible with modern science.
What notable organizations was K. Sri Dhammananda associated with?
He established the Buddhist Missionary Society in 1963 and, as of 1980, was the head monk of the Buddhist Maha Vihara in Kuala Lumpur. He also supported the founding of the Buddhist Gem Fellowship.
How many books did K. Sri Dhammananda write?
K. Sri Dhammananda wrote over 47 books on Buddhism. These works were translated into multiple languages, indicating their wide reach and impact.
When and where did K. Sri Dhammananda die?
K. Sri Dhammananda died on August 31, 2006, at the Subang Jaya Medical Centre in Selangor, Malaysia.
Related Buddhists
K. L. Dhammajoti
K. L. Dhammajoti, born Lim Poi Cheng, is a Theravada Buddhist monk and a prominent scholar specializing in Sarvāstivāda Abhidharma. He is recognized globally for his significant contributions to Buddhist scholarship, including several influential personal works and his role as the founding editor of the Journal of Buddhist Studies. Currently, he serves as the director of the Buddha-Dharma Centre of Hong Kong Ltd.
Kirinde Sri Dhammaratana
Kirinde Sri Dhammaratana is a Sri Lankan-born Buddhist monk who has served as the Chief High Priest of Malaysia since 2006. He is known for his extensive welfare work through the Ti-Ratana Welfare Society, which provides care and assistance to various vulnerable groups in Malaysia. He also plays a significant role in promoting Buddhist teachings and Malaysian Chinese culture.
Chi Chern
Chi Chern, born Zhōu Míngtiān in 1955, is a highly respected Chan Buddhist meditation teacher in Malaysia and Singapore. He is known as the first appointed Dharma heir of Master Sheng-yen and is the principal of the Malaysian Buddhist Institute. His teachings stem from a profound spiritual experience during a retreat led by Sheng-yen.