Soma Thera

Kotahene Soma Maha Thera

Kotahene Soma Maha Thera (1898–1960), born Victor Emmanuel Perera Pulle, was a significant figure in Theravada Buddhism, recognized as a monk, translator, and missionary. Born in Kotahena, Colombo, Sri Lanka, he initially received a Catholic education but converted to Buddhism in his youth after encountering the Dhammapada.

Ordination and Early Work

In 1934, Soma Thera traveled to Japan with his companion G.S. Prelis, where he translated the Chinese version of the Vimuttimagga into English, a work published as "The Path of Freedom." The following year, both Victor Perera and Prelis journeyed to Burma, receiving their higher ordination as Theravada monks on November 6, 1936, under the guidance of the meditation teacher Jetavana Sayadaw in Moulmein.

Missionary and Literary Contributions

Despite suffering from asthma, Soma Thera actively engaged in missionary efforts. In 1940, he was part of a Buddhist Mission of Goodwill to India. Later, in 1957, he undertook a mission trip to Germany, sponsored by the German Dharmaduta Society, during the period when the society acquired Das Buddhistische Haus in Berlin.

Soma Thera was also a prolific author, contributing numerous books and booklets on Buddhist teachings. He was associated with the Buddhist Publication Society, writing for their Bodhi Leaves and The Wheel series. His works provided accessible explanations of Buddhist philosophy and practice to a wider audience.

Later Life and Death

During World War II, Soma Thera resided at the Island Hermitage alongside fellow monks Kheminda Thera and Nyanaponika Thera. He passed away in 1960 due to pulmonary thrombosis.