Buddhism in Sinhalese Society 1750-1900Edition 1

Buddhism in Sinhalese Society 1750-1900: A Study of Religious Revival and Change by Kitsiri Malalgoda delves into the transformation of Buddhism in Sri Lanka during a pivotal period in the island's history. Drawing on Weber's concept of Buddhism's evolution from a monastic tradition to a world religion, Malalgoda examines how Sinhalese Buddhism adapted to meet the needs of the peasant laity and how it navigated its relationship with colonial secular authorities. The book explores the religious revival and societal changes that unfolded in response to colonial pressures and Christian missionary activities, particularly focusing on how Buddhism responded to the challenges posed by British rule and the subsequent loss of state patronage. The study is divided into two parts: the first deals with internal transformations within the Buddhist monastic order, including the schisms and controversies that arose, while the second addresses the Buddhist-Christian confrontation that shaped modern Sinhalese religious identity. Malalgoda highlights how organizational changes within Buddhism, such as the rise of new monastic fraternities and lay involvement through voluntary associations, allowed Buddhism to regain strength and assert its presence against missionary efforts. By the end of the 19th century, Buddhists had successfully adopted modern tools like education, preaching, and the printing press to defend their faith and engage with broader societal changes. This work offers a critical historical perspective on the resilience and revival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka during a time of profound cultural and political shifts.

This title was originally published in 1976.

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