Palitha Ariyarathna

Synopsis:

Social media and online platforms have amplified false narratives about Buddhism, distorting historical accuracy and core teachings. With actors, influencers, missionary groups, and even some Buddhist monks spreading misleading metaphors, Sri Lanka must uphold its constitutional duty to protect the Buddha Sasana. Legal safeguards, defamation laws, and global human rights conventions provide tools to challenge these distortions. Preserving Buddhist wisdom requires awareness, accountability, and legal intervention to ensure doctrinal integrity for future generations.

Preserving the truth of Buddhist teachings is essential. Misinformation and modern reinterpretations must not distort the wisdom that has guided generations. Let us stand for accuracy, respect, and the integrity of the Buddha Sasana”.

In recent times, misinformation has become a growing concern, especially when it distorts the truth behind religious doctrines and historical events. A recent social media controversy has highlighted a deliberate misrepresentation of the Buddha’s teachings—an attempt to modernize Buddhist history by falsely claiming that the Buddha placed a mobile phone instead of his alms bowl into the Niranjana River.

This fabricated narrative is not only misleading but also undermines the authenticity of Buddhist doctrine. As Sri Lanka is constitutionally obligated to preserve the Buddha Sasana, it is essential to address such misinformation before it causes irreparable damage to Buddhist heritage.

Buddhism is built upon unchanging truths that transcend time. These teachings remain relevant across generations without needing reinterpretation based on societal or technological developments. The alms bowl, which the Buddha released into the Niranjana River, is a profound symbol of renunciation and detachment from material possessions. Equating this sacred act with a mobile phone risks distorting the essence of his teachings.

Modern technology has changed communication, but Buddhist wisdom is not defined by technological shifts. Renunciation is not about rejecting physical objects alone—it is a profound journey of letting go of desire, attachment, and ignorance.

Sri Lanka has legal safeguards in place to protect Buddhism from distortion and misinformation. Misrepresenting Buddhist teachings violates both national and international protections, including:

• Article 9 of the Constitution – Grants Buddhism the foremost place, obligating the state to preserve the Buddha Sasana.
• Defamation Laws (Penal Code Section 479) – Criminalizes false statements that harm religious institutions and reputations.
• Cybercrime & Online Safety Laws – Prevent the spread of false religious narratives that mislead the public.
• ICCPR Act (2007) – Criminalizes incitement of religious hostility through misinformation.
• Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 18) – Protects religious freedom from distortion.

Misinterpretation of Buddhist teachings can lead to legal consequences under Buddhist Sasana law and, in some cases, extend to international civil cases. While no formal legal action has been initiated, the law allows any individual or religious organization to file complaints with law enforcement or the courts against those who distort Buddhist narratives. The legal system can intervene at any time to uphold doctrinal accuracy.

This issue extends beyond religious misinterpretation—it also affects cultural and linguistic integrity. The Sinhala language is deeply linked to Buddhism, and altering core teachings through inaccurate metaphors threatens both religious sanctity and linguistic preservation. Sri Lanka has a constitutional responsibility to ensure Buddhism remains accurately represented and language is used responsibly in religious discourse.

Several individuals have attempted to reshape Buddhist teachings using misleading metaphors. Whether done deliberately or unknowingly, such actions do not go unnoticed. Sri Lanka’s legal system provides protections against religious misrepresentation, and any individual has the right to file a formal complaint with law enforcement or take legal action in the courts if Buddhism is misrepresented.

If such distortions persist, authorities may intervene under Sri Lankan and international laws protecting religious integrity and defamation rights. Those engaging in intentional misinterpretation must understand that legal consequences can be pursued at any time.

Buddhism is built on unchanging truths that must be preserved accurately and responsibly. Misrepresentation—whether intentional or due to misunderstanding—must be challenged through education, legal action, and cultural preservation.

Ensuring Buddhist teachings remain untouched by speculative reinterpretations is a collective responsibility. Misinformation must be addressed with clarity and legal accountability to safeguard the integrity of the Buddha Sasana for generations to come.

It is essential for authorities to assess this matter and ensure that Buddhism is represented with accuracy and respect. Preserving the truth of Buddhist teachings is essential. Misinformation and modern reinterpretations must not distort the wisdom that has guided generations. Let us stand for accuracy, respect, and the integrity of the Buddha Sasana.”

— Palitha Ariyarathna

Ceo and Founder Ceylonwatch”
Analyst of Buddhist Affairs
Desha Abhimani Surya Vansa Ratna Vibhushan
Senkadagala Sinha Dwaraya
TCFBI PEC President, Unethical Conversion of Buddhist
TCFBI International Co-ordinator
Hela Abimani National Foundation-Secretary
Author, Publisher, and Journalist