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A comparative investigation of Samatha and Vipassanā in the Visuddhimagga and the Sravakabhūmi of the Yogācārabhūmi-Sāstra
(Postgraduate Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences (PGIHS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2024-12-19) Shao, J.Y.; Chin, B.L.; Premasiri, P.D.
The Pāli term "samatha" (Sanskrit: śamatha) is meditation focused on cultivating deep concentration and mental tranquillity, and the Pāli term "vipassanā" (Sanskrit:vipaśyanā ) is meditation aimed at gaining profound insight into the nature of reality and achieving liberation. Both the Visuddhimagga and the Śrāvakabhūmi section of the Yogācārabhūmi-śāstra serve as manuals of practice on Samatha and Vipassanā for Theravāda and Mahāyāna Buddhism, respectively. This research attempts to explore the similarities and differences in the theoretical basis and specific practice methods of the two classics on Samathavipassanā. The research adopts a comparative textual analysis, focusing on the doctrinal and practical aspects of Samatha-vipassanā as delineated in these two texts. In examining the Visuddhimagga, the results reveal that the analysis focuses on the systematic and detailed exposition of the seven kinds of purification and sixteen aspects of insight knowledge, which integrates both Samatha and Vipassanā as essential components of the Buddhist path to liberation. The results reveal that the Śravakabhūmi is examined for its unique contributions to the Yogācāra school's understanding of meditative practices, particularly in its nuanced treatment of consciousness and cognitive processes, such as the seven mental contemplations, nine stages of mental abiding, four types, three gates and six entities of Vipassanā. Additionally, the Śrāvakabhūmi provides an in-depth analysis of the objects of meditation (ālambana), which play a crucial role in guiding the practitioner through different stages of Samatha and Vipassanā. Both texts combine systematic doctrinal exposition and introspective analysis. They are not merely products of speculative or theoretical construction, but reflect a close and perceptive analysis of introspective experience. This introspective methodology differs fundamentally from the empirical methods of modern science, which focus on external observation and analysis of the biological organism. In contrast, the Buddhist analysis prioritizes the inner processes of experience and recognizes the profound significance of introspective observation in understanding the mind and its workings. This research offers a more diversified perspective on contemporary meditation practice through a comparative study of two texts on the Samatha and Vipassana comparison.
A comparative study of curricula based on plato’s republic and the pirivena system in sri lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2017-03-21) Pushpakumara, S.K.N
Curriculum is a fundamental element in an effective teaching and learning process. The design, the aim, objectives and Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) of any curriculum reflect the philosophy of the education system of a country and they also need to comply with the socio-political and socio-cultural requirements of a nation. Plato was a recognized Greek philosopher and educationist in western education. Plato proposes an outline of a curriculum for an educational system in the Republic where the goal is to produce able citizens who are responsible for their community. But, Plato’s system was never implemented. The education system of Sri Lanka on the other hand, developed from antiquity aiming at educating mainly the Buddhist monks in monasteries. The Pirivena education also follows a curriculum that reflects the development of an education system that was native to ancient Sri Lanka. The curriculum proposed by Plato in his Republic, and the curriculum in the Pirivena system of education naturally adhere to the basic needs of their societies. Scholarly attention was laid on studying the Platonic system of education and its influence on the modern education in the west. Even various aspects of the Pirivena system of education have grabbed scholarly attention. Yet, no attempts were made to undertake a comparative study on the two curricular proposed in this study. The objective of this paper is to examine the content of the two curricula and their aims, objectives and Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) in order to understand the rationale and diverse circumstances that may have led to fashion the content, aims, objectives and the ILOs of their respective curricula. The study paid close attention to Plato's Republic along with commentaries on this work and secondary literature as appropriate. In studying Pirivena curricula, Pirivena Education Act of 1979, inscriptions and secondary literature were used besides visiting selected pirivenas in order to use the information in their archives and libraries. The gathered information on Plato's curriculum and Pirivena curriculum were studied closely and independently with an analytical mind prior to comparing and contrasting them. The two curricula contain some similar subject content such as literature and mathematics. In certain cases, the course content and methods are different from each other. But interestingly whether the course content is similar or not the concepts, aims, objectives and ILOs behind including those courses appear identical in the two systems of education because the course contents of these curricula attempted to comply with their socio-political and socio-cultural requirements.
A comparative study of korean and sinhala polite expressions
(University of Peradeniya, 2018-04-03) Edirisooriya, E.A.I.R
With only fifty-year history of Korean language education in Sri Lanka, there is an increasing number of Sri Lankan Korean language learners who have developed the desire to study the Korean language. Most Sri Lankans have grown an interest in the Korean Language while enjoying the Korean culture through Korean Drama, Korean Songs and Movies. Initially, Sri Lankans were interested in the Korean Language and started learning the language as an effort to get employed in Korea. However, the purpose of learning Korean Language have been diversified since their interests are different. In order to make a close relationship between the two countries, to know the correct usage of honorific expressions is very useful. In this regard, this study examines the necessity of honorific expressions in the Korean language education in Sri Lanka and attempt to facilitate the learners to understand the differences between the polite expressions in Korean and Sinhala Languages. The Korean Honorific forms have become simplified compared to the way it was in the past. It is still complicated for nonnative Sri Lankan Speakers who are learning Korean Language. As polite expressions in both languages have different characteristics, students tend to make mistakes. Specially, honorific expressions can be identified as a grammar area where the students make many mistakes. Therefore, this study is aimed at making those students understand the differences and the similarities in polite expressions. The main objective of this study is to compare polite expressions between the Korean and Sinhala. In this study, ‘Politeness’ is categorized into two major parts. They are explicit polite expressions and implicit polite expressions. Korean polite expressions have been identified and categorized as follows; they are explicit polite expressions of postpositions, honorifics in pre final endings, honorifics of endings and honorifics in specific words. And the Sinhala languages explicit polite expressions are also categorized into honorifics in suffix, honorifics in plural, honorifics of postpositions and honorifics in special Sinhala words. Finally, this study explains the similarities and differences between Korean and Sinhala explicit expressions. Honorifics of endings can be seen in Korean Polite expressions. They can be categorized into six speech style forms dividing each with its own set of verb endings. In conclusion, this study will be useful to the Sri Lankan students to be fluent in communication with Korean Native Speakers building up wellmannered close relationship and respectful attitude towards successful communication.
A comparative study of personality disorders referred to in dsm-5 and buddhist jataka stories
(University of Peradeniya, 2017-03-31) Ven. Wimaladhamma, K.; Ven. Arunasiri, T.
Personality refers to individual differences in characteristic patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving. Dysfunctions of personality which are called ''personality disorders'' have become a major topic in Clinical Psychology and Abnormal Psychology. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) lists several mental disorders related personality. Buddhist Jātaka tales are a voluminous body of folklore concerned with previous births of the Buddha consisting of five hundred and fifty stories having a past story and a corresponding present story. When Buddhist Jataka Stories are deeply examined we can identify that in some of these the personality disorders mentioned in DSM-5 had been depicted by the characters involved. Here, an attempt is made to examine the concept of personality disorder in DSM-5 and Buddhist Jataka Stories and the mental disorders depicted in Buddhist Jataka Stories. Many Personality Disorders are described in the Jātaka Stories. Personality disorders involve patterns of behavior, mood, social interaction, and impulsiveness that cause distress to one experiencing them, as well as to other people in their lives. People with a personality disorder display an enduring, rigid pattern of inner experience and outward behavior that impair their sense of self, emotional experiences, goals, capacity for empathy, and/or capacity for intimacy. DSM-5, identifies 10 personality disorders. Often these disorders are separated into three clusters. One cluster, marked by odd or eccentric behavior, consists of the paranoid, schizoid, and schizotypal personality disorders. Another features dramatic behavior and consists of the antisocial, borderline, histrionic, and narcissistic personality disorders. The last features a high degree of anxiety and includes the avoidant, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders. The symptoms of these personality disorders can be easily identified in Jataka Stories. The Kshanthivadi Jātakaya depicts a character that bears psychological criteria which are similar to the Antisocial Personality Disorder mentioned in DSM-5. The Antisocial Personality Disorder is a pervasive pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others that begins in childhood or early adolescence and continues into adulthood. Lack of remorse, poor behavior control, tendency to violate the boundaries and rights of others, aggressive violent behavior, are more common in Antisocial Personality Disorder. The Ummaga Jātakaya shows several personality disorders such as Paranoid Personality Disorder. Psychopathic Personality can be seen in Chulla Suthasoma Jātakaya. The Borderline Personality Disorder can be seen in Kuti Dushaka Jātakaya. These personality disorders can be easily identified in DSM-5 and this paper will discuss them mentioned in Jataka Story book with reference to DSM-5. Further, the difference between the methods of identifying the DSM-5 and Buddhist Jataka will be discussed.
A comparative study of the theravāda bhikkhu and bhikkhunī pārājikā vinaya rules
(University of Peradeniya, 2018-04-03) Ven. Wimalajothi, Madipola
The rules and regulations imposed by an institution or society decide its longevity. Thus, Buddhist Vinaya helps the well-being of Bhikkhus and Bhikkhuṇīs. The Vinaya Piṭaka includes the Vinaya rules for both Bhikkhus and Bhikkhuṇīs. Some differences can be observed among the Bhikkhu and Bhikkhuṇī Vinaya rules. Therefore, the present study mainly focuses on the Pārājikā Vinaya rules of Bhikkhu and Bhikkhuṇī according to Theravāda Buddhism. The Pārājikā is the most serious offences which brings expulsion of the guilty from the Buddhist Saṅgha. If a monk or nun falls into a Pārājikā offence, he or she is no longer in communion with others. The Bhikkhūs have only four Pārājikā but Bhikkhuṇīs have eight of them. When studying those offences comparatively, it is evident that there are some facts in offences related to Bhikkhuṇīs which have been repeated. The first four Pārājikā rules are the same for both Bhikkhūs and Bhikkhuṇīs. In addition to these four, other four Pārājikā rules are made only for Bhikkhuṇīs. The first four rules are prohibitions regarding sexual behavior, stealing, killing a human being and boasting of a superior human state, which occur among both monks and nuns. Among the last four, the fifth and eighth rules are directly related to sexual desires. The sixth is related with hiding faults and the seventh refers to following a Bhikkhu who has been suspended by the Saṅgha Community. When analyzing the first four Pārājikā rules for both Bhikkhus and Bhikkhuṇīs, it is evident that, they show some systematic nature in them. However, the additional four Pārājikā imposed only for Bhikkhuṇīs do not show such nature. The fifth rule related to Bhikkhuṇīs has been equaled to the ‘Kāyasansagga Saṅghādhisesa’ rule of Bhikkhūs. The sixth Pārājikā has been refused in early Buddhist teachings. The seventh Pārājikā which refers to following a suspended Bhikku in Sāsana is a Pārājikā for Bhikkhuṇīs but it is a Saṅghādhisesa offence for Bhikkhūs. The eight Pārājikā for Bhikkhuṇīs emerge due to lust. However, although there are some Vinaya rules for Bhikkhūs related to this rule, it is a Pārājikā offence for Bhikkhuṇīs. As the contemporary Indian society was based on Brahmin teachings, women lost their rights. However, the rise of Buddhism provided some liberation for women. In such a condition, after the establishment of Bhikkhuṇi Sāsana, there was a progress in women but the traditional attitudes of society towards women affected the Bhikkhuṇi Sāsana.
A comparative study on bilingual education: lessons for Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2018-04-03) Nanayakkara, P.K.
Bilingual Education Programme (BEP) is being implemented in Sri Lankan schools for nearly two decades and still faces challenges because of the absence of an explicit policy. Three cabinet decisions and 12 circulars are the only elements of an uncompleted policy framework of BEP. Hence, this paper compares Sri Lankan BEP with three other countries namely USA, Canada and Malaysia which differ from each other by purposes, perspectives and contexts in order to identify strengths and weaknesses of the local programme which will be helpful in shaping up an explicit BE policy. In this document survey, both printed and electronic documents such as international research papers, reports, cabinet decisions, circulars, journal articles etc. were reviewed. Data was gathered through skimming, reading and re – reading. Content and thematic analysis were used to analyze data and categorized under four dimensions; purpose, type, policies and strategies and expected outcome of the program. Comparison was done in developing a rubric. According to the analysis, USA absorbs children of migrants in to the mainstream with assimilation purpose to minimize issues like dropouts and aggressive behavior as English is the only medium of instruction in the mainstream. Hence, types of BEP in the USA mostly transitional though maintenance and two way bilingual programmes can also be seen. Despite being different types, these programmes always promote subtractive bilingualism where the ultimate result is to replace first the language (L1) of the minority child by the second language (L2). Canada introduced the French immersion model evolved in a context of inequalities of social and language factors between French and English speaking people. Thus, social and economic factors caused the Canadian BEP with two languages similarly powerful at the international level. In such a situation in which one language supports the other language, the outcome is additive bilingualism. Malaysia and Sri Lanka having developmental models also possess additive bilingualism but with different perspectives: both countries use English as an international language in order to promote biliteracy. Hence, lessons learnt are twofold: policy and implementation based. BE model and related policies of a country are mainly decided by the purpose together with socio economic and cultural factors entwined with power play between L2 and English as a lingua franca. It is also learnt that strong foundation of L1 supports additive bilingualism and biliteracy. At the implementation level, system readiness like materials, competent teachers and training are the success factors. However, political will stands as the uppermost factor for the sustainability of the programme.
A compass for navigating a complex world: Methodology reflection based on the developmental evaluation of the community memorialisation project
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-03-29) Silva, Nilakshi De; Sadaath, M.I.M.; Abeyrathne, G.D.R.U.U; Baskaran, S.
The Developmental Evaluation (DE) approach moves the focus of evaluation away from ex-post proving the impact of the project with a view to designing the next project, to directly and immediately helping ongoing projects to adapt and improve their design and implementation. The present study is a methodology reflection based on the experience and learning from using the DE approach to support an innovative project in a complex and changing context, namely the Community Memorialisation Project (CMP) implemented by Search for Common Ground, Sri Lanka, and the Her Stories Initiative during the period 2016-2018. The aim of this paper is to share the key learnings and experiences of using the DE approach to support Community Memorialisation Project. The qualitative–exploratory approach was employed and data were collected using one-on-one interviews and secondary sources. The thematic analysis with the descriptive approach was applied to analyze the data. The study reveals that experience of DE for the CMP is largely positive, but it is also clear that it worked due to the presence of several preconditions. The DE approach needs a substantial time commitment and openness to reflection and sharing learning from the project team, designing and administering evaluation tools together, as well as collaboratively analysing the data promoted an evaluation culture within the team. The findings also revealed that DE helped to provide a better evaluation of the CMP than a more traditional approach; it helped to generate substantially more data than an ex-post evaluation, and the evaluator has a deeper, more nuanced and detailed perspective on the project as to what and how to evaluate it. Had the project had only a rigid log frame approach to tracking changes or an external end line evaluation much of the rich learning that CMP was able to generate – about memory, memorialisation and its role in non-recurrence of violence – may have been lost.
A conceptual framework of source credibility in the case of fake news phenomenon on facebook
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-03-29) Siraj, F. Zaadha; Usoof, Ramila
The astounding progress in communication, although crucial for many modern day advancements, has also posed certain challenges that we struggle to overcome today. The fake news trend, which is one such challenge, has taken complete control over the digital world to such an extent that we have come to accept it as a norm of our daily information consumption. Despite the normalization, fake news, which is intentionally fabricated information, deceptive content, or grossly distorted actual news reports, has in the recent past been the source of panic, trauma, violence and hatred. One of the factors that facilitate the rapid and easy spread of fake news in today‘s world is the advent of social media. Facebook among many is one of the most popular social media platforms with over two billion active users. The uncharted freedom of expression on Facebook perpetuates the easy spread of fake news. While many studies explore the means of spreading fake news on Facebook, there seems to be little research on the user-psychology behind accepting fake news on Facebook. The Yale theory on persuasion proposes that human beings accept and believe in information when they perceive the source to be credible. Source credibility, on the other hand, is dependent on the trustworthiness, expertise, likability and attractiveness of the source. This perspective, although applicable in real life situations, is not an accurate representation of the online behaviour of Facebook users. This study attempts to develop a conceptual framework to explain the user acceptance of fake news on Facebook; to explain, predict and understand the phenomenon while challenging the existing body of research. For this purpose, mainly qualitative methods were used. Initially, important research findings related to the research topic were obtained. An extensive analysis was then conducted on the existing literature on persuasive processes, online user behaviour and source credibility. Following a systematic in-depth study, a comprehensive conceptual model was proposed to explain the user psychology behind accepting fake news on Facebook. The conceptual model proposed by this study consists of three determinants: demographic factors, group identity and selective attention. It is proposed that certain demographic factors such as age, gender, level of education and place of residence could affect the user vulnerability to accept fake news. Secondly, sharing the same group membership as the source can also make users readily accept the information without questioning its credibility. This study, therefore, is an attempt to reevaluate the existing research on persuasive processes, focusing on the fake news phenomenon in the context of Facebook, and it proposes demographic factors, group identity and selective attention as the potential determinants of user acceptance of fake news on Facebook.
A contemporary exploration of Buddhist nuns from a feminist point of view
(Postgraduate Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences (PGIHS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka., 2024-12-19) Santacari, Rev.; Premasiri, P.D.
Buddhism is considered a religion of non-discrimination, and it provides an excellent platform for gender and empowerment. However, the development and perception of women within Buddhism, especially nuns, has been susceptible to cultural factors resulting in sex discrimination. In recent decades, the Buddhist feminist movement has grown to address these issues. Within this trend, the present paper highlights the mutual dynamics of Buddhist doctrine and feminism in addressing the concerns of oriental Buddhist nuns in Myanmar and other countries. Fundamentally, Buddhist feminism recognizes that although the basic teaching of Buddhism affirms that women and men possess the capacity for enlightenment, the decline of the Bhikkhuni order in many Theravada Buddhist countries over centuries exemplifies how patriarchal influences have sidelined women’s roles within the Sangha. Nonetheless, the more recent trend of the revival of Bhikkhuni ordination in Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Western countries indicates a change in gender hierarchy. Hence, this paper investigates the achievements of feminists in addressing the defining issues of women’s liberation in a Buddhist context. Feminists in Buddhism further reformulate the revival of ordination rights to women and address the systemic exclusion of women. In specific terms, the examples taught by Ayya Khema, Bhikkhuni Dhammananda, Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo, and DawKetumala show how Buddhist nuns have emerged to the occasion as spiritual leaders although they faced oppressive gender roles. Beyond ordination rights, the empowerment of Buddhist nuns is also reflected in their increasing involvement in social work, education, and meditation teaching. Nuns are leading social justice initiatives, promoting mental health, and offering spiritual guidance to both lay and monastic communities; thus, extending the boundaries of traditional roles ascribed to them. This paper expects to argue that equality between men and women is sought after in Buddhist feminism. It is concluded that Buddhist feminism, as well as the empowerment of women in Buddhism, is quite an effective approach to the examination of women’s place in Buddhism today. The study illustrates the struggle towards gender equality and the struggle to create a positive change in the community, as women practicing Buddhism strive for attention in the monastic and lay order structure.
A critical investigation of pāli sub-commentaries in upper Myanmar: from 12ᵗʰ to 15ᵗʰ century c.e.
(University of Peradeniya, 2018-04-03) Rev. Candavara
This paper, through critical and historical approach, focuses on the pāli subcommentaries which flourished in Upper Myanmar from 12ᵗʰ to 15ᵗʰ century C.E. The reason to reconstruct them is the controversial statements of previous scholars as to the period when the first sub-commentary was written and the lists how many texts were therein. Like other Theravada countries in South and South-east Asia, Myanmar, especially Upper Myanmar plays a significant role in the Pāli sub-commentarial literature. The respective contributions of Myanmar Buddhist scholars consist of various works such as commentary (Aṭṭhakathā) sub-commentary (Ṭīkā), and sub-sub-commentary (Abhinava-Ṭīkā) and so forth. The long tradition of Pāḷi sub-commentarial works have flourished in Upper Myanmar since 12ᵗʰ century C.E during the Bagan Dynasty. From that period onward, Myanmar scholars have been contributing many sub-commentaries on canonical and non-canonical commentaries. Of them, Saṃpyiṅ, Saddhammajotipāla, Caturaṅgabala, Nāgita and Ariyavaṃsa were pre-eminent sub-commentators. The Pāli scholarly works in Upper Myanmar could be traced from different accounts in the Burmese and Pāli chronicles in Myanmar. In this regard, Pagan inscription and Ganthavaṃsa, the history of the Books, have recorded the names of sub-commentaries. Modern scholastic surveys are not much focused on such works due to lack of proper information of the original sources, Pāli sub-commentaries. But a few works are controversial, for instance either the first ṭīkā was the Kārikā ṭikā or the Nyāsappadīpikā well-known as Saṃpyiṅ ṭīkā. Consequently, for foreign researchers, the studies on the subject are still being hampered. Pāli sub-commentaries printed in Burmese editions and their related chronicles will become the primary sources for the present work, some Burmese inscriptions and palm-leaf manuscripts will also be used. For secondary sources, this research will use the related works contributed by modern Buddhist scholars in the subject area. The aim of this paper is to clarify some points requiring elucidation about the sub-commentaries. It will be a supplement of ‘Pāḷi Literature of Burma’ by Mabel Haynes Bode for the Pāḷi sub-commentarial literature of Upper Myanmar during the period. To reach the aim, new findings of this paper will remark on the Pāli sub-commentaries as a critical investigation. Keywords: Pāḷi Sub-commentary, Upper Myanmar, Nyāsappadīpikā
A critical investigation of the concept of concentration presented by venerable Ledī Sayardaw
(Postgraduate Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences (PGIHS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2024-12-19) Revata, Ven.
Venerable Ledī Sayardaw was a highly respected scholar and meditation master for his deep understanding of the teachings of Buddha. Significantly, his treatises have become famous in Myanmar and other nations owing to his scholarly writing and literary thoroughness. He dedicated much of his life to studying, writing, and practicing Buddhist teachings promoting vipassanā meditation for the monks and lay people. His meditation technique emphasizes breathing in and out (ānāpāna). It is difficult to know his meditation method because we rarely see it in his several treatises; however, his exact instruction on the concentration level for insight meditation can be traced through his well-known treatises. Based on mindfulness of breathing (ānāpānassati), Venerable Ledī Sayardaw spoke of different levels of concentration, and he categorized seven stages. It is from the level of the fourth jhāna to the level of the counting stage (gaṇanā). Accordingly, the meditator can cultivate insight meditation through the level of jhana; moreover, through the stage of access concentration (upacārasamādhi), the stage of connection (anubandanā), and the stage of counting (gaṇanā). He recommended that the fourth jhāna is the best way to commence insight meditation. If the meditator is not capable of practicing to attain the fourth jhāna, the meditator can commence insight meditation through the lower jhānic levels or at least the level of counting stage. This study expects to examine whether the stage of connection and the stage of counting can suppress the hindrances sufficiently enough to develop insight. This issue will be investigated based on Theravada exegetical literature under the qualitative method as a textual base study to determine the concentration level required for developing insight.
A critical study on the impact of Raguvamisam on the educational heritage of Sri Lankan Tamils
(Postgraduate Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences (PGIHS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2024-12-19) Cumaran, E.; Raguparan, K.
The Raguvamisam, one of the Tamil epics in Sri Lanka by Arasakesari, was composed during the period of the kings of Jaffna. It was written by adopting the major epic Raguvamsam by Kalidasa in Sanskrit. Arasakesari is believed to be a descendant of the Aryachakravarthy Dynasty that ruled the Kingdom of Jaffna. This epic consists of three cantos, twenty-six chapters, and two thousand four hundred and four verses in Virtutham meter. The history, valor, and generosity of the twenty-nine kings who belonged to the Solar dynasty are expounded in this epic. Among them, the history of the Kings Ragu, Ayan, Thileepan, Dasarathan, Raman, and Kusha are elaborately related in this epic. The challenging diction and the style utilized in this epic would demand deep contemplation even for scholars who are well-versed in traditional poetry. However, this epic secured importance during the nineteenth and the early decades of the twentieth centuries. It was ardently studied and discussed among traditional scholars and students. Besides, it was included as a textbook in the traditional educational heritage. Therefore, it is necessary to study the reason for the in-depth learning of this epic and its influence on the educational and literary heritage of Sri Lankan Tamils. But so far, only a few primary and introductory studies have been conducted on Raguvamisam. They just deal with the background of its composition and structure. This study aims to comprehend the impact of the first Tamil epic, Raguvamisam, on the educational heritage of Sri Lankan Tamils. This study is based on the descriptive methodology encompassing the analytical and comparative methods to identify and evaluate the impact of this epic. The epic Raguvamisam and its commentary are taken as primary sources. Literary appreciation notes and articles on Raguvamisam and previous studies on the educational heritage of Sri Lankan Tamils are taken as secondary sources. The findings indicate that the inclination to prioritize the first Sri Lankan Tamil epic, sound knowledge of Sanskrit, and the influence of the epic Ramayanam are the prominent reasons for the intensive reading of this epic. Therefore, Raguvamisam was included in the curriculum of the traditional educational heritage of Sri Lankan Tamils, and commentaries and appreciation notes were written abundantly. Besides, it was paraphrased by some scholars in prose, and its influence could be traced to the subsequent literary compositions composed in the following years.
A gender perspective on exploring the factors affecting unemployment among young females in Sri Lanka
(Postgraduate Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences (PGIHS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka., 2024-12-19) Dissanayake, D.M.C.; Rathnayake, R.M.A.D.B.
Youth unemployment in Sri Lanka is a significant challenge to sustainable development, with young females disproportionately affected. Despite the studies and government interventions, there still needs to be a concrete answer for this socio-economic issue, and females are more vulnerable in the face of youth unemployment. In such a context, this study was conducted with the primary objective of exploring the factors that hinder the employability of young females in Sri Lanka while identifying potential strategies and interventions to enhance their employability. The study also aimed to investigate the current landscape of youth unemployment in Sri Lanka and examine the impact of unemployment on the well-being and social status of young females. This qualitative research employed an ethnographic method with thirty female respondents aged 15-24 from the Sooriyawewa Grama Niladari Division selected through purposive sampling. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The findings revealed that domestic chores, harmful experiences of sexual harassment at workplaces, social norms, patriarchal social structure, and gender stereotypes are significant hindrances to women's employability. Issues such as lack of infrastructure, wild elephant conflicts, early marriages, school dropouts, and lack of English literacy and computer skills also contribute to this problem. Moreover, the study uncovered the profound effects of female youth unemployment, including domestic violence due to lack of proper income, drug dealing, inability to fulfill basic needs, health issues, depression, suicidal ideation and attempts, dependency on marriage for employment, and social exclusion. Accordingly, the research proposes implementing awareness-raising campaigns on women's human rights, job prospects within specific industries that offer decent job opportunities, and digital entrepreneurship covering all the settings, implementing support systems such as incubation centers, industrial parks, and zoning with the proper monitoring and evaluation system to promote the youth female participation in small and medium enterprises, policy reforms in education and establishing paternity leave system to strength the work-family balance, and a proper mechanism to identify sexual violation at the workplace. In conclusion, the study recommends opening a broad social discourse regarding female youth unemployment and related labor law reforms to reduce female unemployment in Sri Lanka.
A gender-archaeological reading on Henakanda Biso Bandara cult
(Postgraduate Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences (PGIHS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2024-12-19) Weerasuriya, W. L. A. B. J.
This study undertakes a gender-archaeological reading of Henakanda Biso Bandara, a god/goddess from Sri Lanka’s late medieval pantheon, to explore the complexities of gender identity in the Gampola kingdom. The primary purpose of this study is to explore the significance of Henakanda Biso Bandara’s gender identity for our understanding of gender and sexuality in Sri Lankan history and culture and to examine how her/his non-conformity to traditional gender norms challenges and complicates our understanding of gender identity in Sri Lankan society. Gender archaeology is a relatively modern archaeological trend that emerged after the post-processual archaeological movement, leading to a more qualitative approach to understanding the past by incorporating insights from other disciplines. This approach, rooted in gender archaeological theories, enables a more holistic understanding of gender identities and behaviors in the past. The cult surrounding Henakanda Biso Bandara is shrouded in mystery, with rumors and folklore surrounding her/his life and character. This study employs a qualitative approach to identify Henakanda Biso Bandara’s gender identity and contemporary society’s ideology. Iconographic data, folklores, and literary data were collected from selected temples and Devalas in the Udunuwara, Yatinuwara, and Kothmale regions, where the cult is still alive, as well as through interviews with local communities, devotees, and expatriates on gender and gender archaeology. Mainly, iconographic analysis was employed to analyze the data, informed by Roberta Gilchrist’s gender archaeological theory, which served as a guiding framework for understanding the phenomena. The study also drew upon contemporary literature sources and iconographic analysis of statues and paintings from the Gampola period to understand masculinity and femininity in the Gampola period, with a special reference to the Henakanda Biso Bandara cult. The Henakanda Biso Bandara statues and paintings found in shrines primarily depict the figure as male. While this may reflect the gender norms of the divine concept during that period, there were a number of female goddesses in Sri Lanka prior to this time. The findings suggest that Henakanda Biso Bandara did not conform to traditional gender norms in the Gampola society but rather defied categorization as male or female.
A historical study of the gavampati cult with special reference to slapat gavampati in early myanmar buddhism
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-03-29) Candimā, Tlagoon
The Saint "Gavaṃpati" had earned a good fame in early Mon Buddhist history of Myanmar. The epigraphical evidence found mainly in Pagan and Pegu areas of Myanmar show the significance of Saint Gavaṃpati worshiped in Mon and Burmese Buddhist traditions during the 12ᵗʰ Century CE. Similarly, the statue of the "Fat Monk" or "pot-bellied Monk" belonging to that period has been unearthed during archeological excavations not only in Myanmar but also in neighboring countries such as Thailand. A preliminary study of this figure has suggested that the "Fat Monk" was a patron saint of the Mon people, who introduced Buddhism to Thaton, an ancient Mon Kingdom of lower Myanmar. The present study reexamines the earlier research claims on the statue of Gavaṃpati from the perspectives of both textual and archaeological findings. According to the Sanskrit text Mahākarmavibhaṅga, Gavaṃpati Thera converted people of Suvarnabhūmi to Buddhism. The mission of the two Theras, So a and Uttara, in the Theravada tradition is also well depicted in Mon and Myanmar chronicles. In any case, what is the relationship between those two accounts? How many saints bear the name of 'Gavaṃpati'? And again, why is he that much important in early Mon Buddhist tradition? Our current knowledge of the so-called "Gavaṃpati Tradition" reveals that ancient Mon Buddhists in Myanmar had relations with Northern India Buddhism. On the other hand, the Buddhist school of Sarvāstivāda spread over Myanmar had also influenced Mon Buddhism while Theravada Buddhism was firmly rooted later. Therefore, Gavaṃpati Thera seems to be the first Buddhist missionary to Myanmar who influenced establishing a particular school with his appellation. Whereas the role of Gavaṃpati has been forgotten by later generations, veneration of him is active even today.
A historical study on the kandyans’weapons and armors
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-03-29) Weerabahu, W.M. Hiran Madhusanka
During the early stages of human evolution, the most basic human need was protection, and food and accommodation were secondary needs. The main reason for this was the threats posed by external predators. Over time they developed create various protection methods (instruments) and physical objects. Moreover, security became a political necessity and it has been a decisive factor as far as the existence of states is concerned. Therefore, security system was important for the rulers to protect their states, power and people. Protection is the lifeblood of a country. Therefore, there are also special security organizations in place. In the course of Sri Lankan history, protection mechanisms associated with different periods can be identified. The research also studies the use of weapons by Kandyans during the Kandyan period, particularly at the times of uprisings. The research examines the technical and non-technical weapons used against the Portuguese, the Dutch and the English. These include swords, bows, and arrows, which are traditional tools and technical weapons. The objective of this research is to explore how the weapons and armors were used in the Kandyan period. Different sources were used for this research. However, the lack of related sources is a limitation for his study. However, since conflicts between the upcountry and outsiders have occurred during the Kandyan period, we can conclude that there should be a sufficient amount of details on Kandyan weapons and armors.
A literature review of factors that affect the intention to purchase Sri Lankan gems and jewellery
(University of Peradeniya, 2018-04-03) Lenaduwa, L.L.Y.R.; Warnakulasooriya, B.N.F.
Sri Lanka’s top luxury goods industry, the gem and jewellery trade, has been associated with international trade in gem and jewellery. Although this industry is an important part of the Sri Lankan economy, limited research has been conducted in this domain. Consumers’ intention of purchasing gemstones, which is a costly, credence-based product, within a complex and highly involved market has rarely been examined. Also, studies that examine factors that influence consumers’ purchasing trends of gold ornaments in Sri Lanka are limited. Therefore, based on a review of the literature on the subject, this paper aims to fulfill this gap. Thus, the study has been conducted as a systematic review of extant literature in the field. Psychological issues influence decision-making in most behavioural patterns, which is well explained in the theory of planned behavior. It serves well to explain the gem and jewellery consumers’ intention to purchase. The paper primarily addresses two objectives. Firstly, it attempts to understand how intention to purchase is defined in literature. Secondly, it considers the key determinants that influence the intention to purchase gems and jewellery in the Sri Lankan gem and jewellery industry. The theory of planned behaviour suggests that human action is guided by three kinds of considerations: behavioural beliefs, normative beliefs and control beliefs. In their respective aggregates, they produce a favorable or unfavorable attitude towards behaviour; normative beliefs result in perceived social pressure on a given subjective norm; and control beliefs give rise to perceived behavioural control. More positive the attitude towards behaviour and subjective norm, the greater the perceived behavioural control, and the stronger it is for an individual’s intention to perform the behaviour of interest. The review revealed that the role of many other constructs such as demographic variables, country of origin, vanity, brand equity, product knowledge, product quality etc., might directly impact purchase intention of luxury goods. Apart from providing possible avenues for future studies, the findings of this paper will enable the Sri Lankan gem and jewellery companies to understand the gem and jewellery consumers’ psychology, and to equip themselves accordingly with better marketing strategies to win consumers. Also, it would facilitate the gold retail businesses to be competitive so that they could develop appropriate positioning and marketing strategies that enhance business success.
A literature review on entrepreneurial competencies and digital marketing orientation
(Postgraduate Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences (PGIHS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2024-12-19) Kumarasinghe, W.P.; Kuruppuge, R.H.; Athukorala, P.P.A.W.
Digital technology has become integral to society, impacting the global economy and greatly affecting businesses. Businesses are adapting and employing digital technologies (DTs) to identify consumers' needs, wants, and preferences and satisfy them using effective digital marketing communication. Adopting DTs is instrumental and has influenced astonishing opportunities, whether businesses are large or small. Literature indicates digital marketing orientation (DMO) of Small & Medium Size Enterprises (SMEs) is subject to the intensity of entrepreneurial competencies (ECs). Scholars accept that SMEs should have an intense understanding and empirical knowledge of DTs to reach competitive advantages against rivals; however, they show major failures in embracing marketing against corporate entities. This has created a great loss of opportunities, competitive advantages and it also hinders growth potential. This is a less researched existing problem. This study scrutinizes related literature on ECs and DMOs of entrepreneurs while testifying to their actual use. The research problem can be stated as the factors influencing ECs and their orientation toward digital marketing usage and actual use. The main objective was to understand the factors that impact ECs and their orientation towards digital marketing applications using literature. Forty-four Journal articles were examined, and the results indicate that the basic global digital adoption is over seventy-five percent; however, the actual use for marketing is much lower. Sixty-four percent of SMEs have adopted email technology; nevertheless, they do not use it effectively for marketing initiatives. Seventy-two percent of SMEs have websites, whereas regular updating and using marketing indicates less. More than ninety percent use social media, but do not use tools and techniques optimally. Only twenty-five SMEs in developed countries employ advanced digital technologies like AI, AR, VR, LLM and DA. The deficiency of competencies causes these insufficiencies. There are three key outcomes from the study. First, it gives an opportunity to highlight major trends, themes, and patterns in the modern marketing domain while providing an opportunity to recognize research gaps. Second, the study makes a significant contribution to entrepreneurial marketing theory and SME's marketing literature. Finally, it consolidates and summarizes existing knowledge, offering an obvious picture of the problem.
A morphological character-based taxonomic review of the genus Sargassum C. Agardh (phaeophyta) in Sri Lanka
(Postgraduate Institute of Science (PGIS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2024-11-01) Palihawadana, D. K.; Kariyawasam, I. U.
Sargassum C. Agardh (1820) is the most species-rich genus within the family Sargassaceae. It is abundantly distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. In Sri Lanka, Sargassum is recognized as the most economically important seaweed genus. However, the current taxonomic status of the genus Sargassum in Sri Lanka remains uncertain, as no valid taxonomic literature has been published with species-level identification since 1961. Therefore, this study aimed to address the six-decade gap in Sargassum taxonomy by analysing the morphological characters of Sargassum specimens collected from various coastal localities around Sri Lanka. The coastal regions of Sri Lanka; Southern, Northern, Western, and Eastern were explored for sample collection, resulting in the collection of nine specimens of Sargassum. For each collected specimen, 30 morphological characters were recorded, and photographs of the thallus morphology were taken. Voucher herbarium specimens were prepared for each collected specimen. Of the nine collected specimens, seven were identified as distinct species based on their unique morphological characters. Those seven species include Sargassum aquifolium (Turner) C. Agardh, S. cymosum C. Agardh, S. vulgare C. Agardh, S. siliquosum J. Agardh, S. oligocystum Montagne, S. carpophyllum J. Agardh and S. natans (Linnaeus) Gaillon. The other two specimens could not be differentiated due to their similar morphology. These results were confirmed by the Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) based on the recorded morphological characters of the collected specimens. For the accurate identification of those two specimens, molecular characterization is needed. This study serves as a preliminary guide for understanding the morphological diversity of the Sargassum species in Sri Lanka, which will be important in future taxonomic research and for using Sargassum species in various economic aspects. However, further research is needed for more accurate identification and a comprehensive review of the genus Sargassum in Sri Lanka.
A preliminary morphological study on the diversity of the spider genus Mallinella (Zodariidae) in Sri Lanka
(Postgraduate Institute of Science (PGIS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2024-11-01) Dayananda, D. N. G.; Benjamin, S. P.
The zodariid genus Mallinella Strand, 1906, is represented by 228 species globally, including a single species, Mallinella redimita, from Sri Lanka, which is indicative of underestimated species diversity. This study aims to identify and describe species of Mallinella on the island based on their morphology. Fieldwork was conducted from 2023 to 2024 in 20 localities across 12 districts, covering all climatic zones of Sri Lanka. All spiders were collected from litter by sieving and hand collection. The collected spider specimens were preserved in 70% ethanol, identified, photographed, and illustrated using Olympus SZX7, Leica M205C, and Leica DM3000 microscopes using standard methodology. A total of 34 males and 33 females were collected. Five new species of Mallinella were recognized based on the differences in their genital morphology (Provisionally named Mallinella sp. A, Mallinella sp. B, Mallinella sp. C, Mallinella sp. D, and Mallinella sp. E). Mallinella sp. A is widespread across Central, Eastern, Northern, North Central, and North Western provinces, whereas Mallinella sp. B was specifically recorded from Galle District. Mallinella sp. C, Mallinella sp. D, and Mallinella sp. E were reported from Kandy, Badulla, and Rathnapura Districts, respectively, suggesting localized distributions for these species. The five new species belong to three currently recognized species groups of Mallinella, namely redimita (Mallinella sp. A), annulipes (Mallinella sp. B, Mallinella sp. D, and Mallinella sp. E), and fasciata (Mallinella sp. C). All five species of Mallinella are new to science and will be formally described in a future publication.

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