President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday pledged that he would ensure that the sacred Tripitaka of Theravada Buddhism be recognised as a World Heritage. The President was addressing a ceremony yesterday at the historical Matale Aluvihare Temple where the sacred Tripitaka was declared a National Heritage of Sri Lanka.
The step to declare the Tripitaka as a National Heritage was taken under the guidance of President Sirisena to ensure that the true essence of Buddhism is preserved for future generations. The move was commended by the Maha Sangha who praised the President for his efforts.
Delivering a special sermon at the event, the Anunayaka of the Malwatta Chapter the Most Ven Niyangoda Vijithasiri Thera of the Siyamopali Nikaya said the President’s decision to declare the Tripitaka as a national treasure to protect the Buddha Sasana is being commended by the Maha Sangha.
“At a time when Buddhism is being distorted, this is perhaps one of the greatest decisions taken by the President during his tenure” Ven Agga Maha Pandita Kotugoda Dhammawasa Thera said, adding that the President’s decision to delete the names of several national heroes of the 1818 Revolt from the traitors’ list must also be praised.
President Sirisena said that with this declaration, the Tripitaka will be legally protected to prevent any distortions. “No person will be able to edit, translate or use it for any other purpose,” the President said adding that only an expert panel would be permitted to do so in the future. The President also said that further research on the words of the Buddha will be encouraged.
The President handed over the letters of patent to the Maha Sangha declaring the Tripitaka a National Heritage. The Maha Sangha, Governors, Heads of Military and other prominent personalities were also present.