Diploma in Pali & Buddhist Studies Programme (DPBS) · an expanding center of teaching and...
Transcript of Diploma in Pali & Buddhist Studies Programme (DPBS) · an expanding center of teaching and...
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Diploma in Pali & Buddhist Studies Programme
(DPBS)
conducted in…
Home Country Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies,
Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.
Affiliated Institutes
(1) Malaysia Buddhist Academy,
H-0, 10, Jalan 1/127, Kuchai Entrepreneurs Park,
58200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
(2) The Buddha Dharma Centre of Hong Kong,
28/F, Pacific Plaza, 410 Des Voeux Rd W,
Shek Tong Tsui, Hong Kong
(3) Right Mindfulness Training Academy,
Mid-America Buddhist Association, 299 Heger Lane,
Augusta, MO 63332-1445, USA.
Background
The Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies in the University of Kelaniya, is one of the internationally
recognized centers of Pali and Buddhist education. Since the establishment of this institute over 135
years ago as a monastic center of Buddhist education and practice and then as a separate Department
within the campus, it has gained a vast development in both infrastructure and human resources. The
Department so far has produced thousands of local and foreign academics qualified with Degrees. As
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an expanding center of teaching and research, it remains deeply committed to the study of Pali and
Buddhist Studies.
Twenty three (23) years before, for the first time, the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies
introduced this Diploma programme in Pali and Buddhist Studies under the special provisions
obtained from the University Grants Commission (UGC), Sri Lanka, to provide a quality education and
a world recognized certificate to the eligible and qualified foreign students who expect to study Pali
and Buddhism. Under this study programme, nearly a thousand foreign students, particularly foreign
monks and nuns have obtained Diploma in Pali and Buddhist studies and are currently engaged in
higher academic and administrative positions in many parts of the world. Perhaps, this could be one
of the oldest programmes for foreign candidates in Buddhist countries which has produced a highest
number of Diploma holders in Pali and Buddhist studies in Sri Lanka. At present there are over 100
foreign students registered in the Department to follow study programmes in Pali and Buddhist
Studies alone. In addition to foreign students academic programmes conducted in the main campus,
in the last few years, the Department has introduced Diploma, BA and MA programmes to foreign
countries such as Malaysia, Hong Kong, USA and China.
Aims and Objectives.
Today there is a growing interest in religions, in view of the rising tension in the society
and separate individuals. People from different walks of life seek support from
religious teachings to find solutions to their problems. Many people living in different
parts of the world now think Buddha’s teachings can provide sustainable solution to
current problems. As a result, Buddhism is becoming a growing faith in the world,
particularly in America and Europe. We have also seen a worldwide increase in
academic interest in relation to science and Buddhism.
In line with this trend, the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies of the University of
Kelaniya has taken steps to introduce new study programmes and course units to
promote Buddhist studies and research in different aspects of Buddhism and its
relevance to the world today. The Department believes that this programme will suit
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both non-Buddhists and non-Theravada Buddhists as well, to improve their knowledge
in Buddhism. Apart from this, the programme is aimed to assist those who seek
solutions to individual and social problems through Buddhism.
Entry Qualifications for Diploma Programme
(i) A candidate possessing a pass in GCE (General Certificate of Education)
Advance Level examination in Sri Lanka or
(ii) A candidate possessing a pass in London Advance Level examination or
(iii) A candidate possessing a certificate equivalent to above qualification or
(iv) A candidate possessing a Diploma in Buddhist Studies or any other subject from
a recognized university or Higher education institute or
(v) A candidate possessing a High Secondary school certificate.(thirteen years
school education) is eligible to obtain admission to this programme.
If the certificates are not in English, they should be accompanied by translation in English
language, certified by the issuing institution or authorized person by respective governments.
Any documents or certificates to prove applicants’ skills in communicating in English /Chinese
will be an advantage to be selected to follow the programme.
Structure of the Programme and Duration
To complete this Diploma programme, candidates should earn 16 credits from compulsory
Course Units and 14 credits from optional course units. Total number of credits any student
has to obtain is 30. The mode of delivery will be full-time in one year or part-time in two
years. The medium of instruction can be decided either as English or Chinese.
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Course units
Course Code Title of the Papers Type Cs Os
DPBS 03014 Historical Background of Buddhism C 4
DPBS 03024 Fundamental Teachings of Buddhism C 4
DPBS 03034 Selected Readings in Pali Literature O 4
DPBS 03044 Pali Grammar & Literature O 4
DPBS 03052 Buddhist Cultural Diversity in Asia O 2
DPBS 03054 Elementary Buddhist Sanskrit O 4
DPBS 03062 Theravada and Mahayana O 2
DPBS 03064 Buddhist Ethics and Meditation C 4
DPBS 03074 Abhidhamma and Development of
Buddhist Thought
C 4
DPBS 03082 English For Buddhist Studies O 2
DPBS 03084 Selected Readings in Chinese Buddhist
Sutras
O 4
DPBS 03094 Modern movements of Humanistic
Buddhism.
O 4
Total No. of credits to be obtained 16 14
C- compulsory, O – optional
Evaluation Criteria
(i) The examination of the Course will be held at the end of each academic year.
(ii) Out of 100 marks, 60% will be given in the year-end Examination, and the other
40% will be given for two mid-year assignments or presentations each carrying 20%
marks.
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(iii) In the year-end examination, for the course units offering 4 credits, students have to
answer 4 out of 8 questions in 3 hours duration. For the course units offering 2
credits, students have to answer 4 out of 8 questions in 2 hours duration.
(iv) Candidates are expected to sit the examination within one year (full time) and
within 2 years (part time) after enrolment and they should attend at least 75% of
lectures conducted.
Key to Grades
Range of marks Grade Grade point value
85-100 A+ 4.00
70-84 A 4.00
65-69 A- 3.70
60-64 B+ 3.30
55-59 B 3.00
50-54 B- 2.70
45-49 C+ 2.30
40-44 C 2.00
35-39 C- 1.70
30-34 D+ 1.30
25-29 D 1.00
00-24 E 0.00
Ordinary Pass
(i) For the award of Diploma , a student must
(a) accumulate grades of C or better in course units aggregating to at least 30 credits of
SLQF 3
(b) obtain a GPA of 2.00 or greater, and
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(c) complete the relevant requirements within a period of three consecutive academic
years.
Merit Pass
(i) For the award of Diploma with merit , a student must
(a) accumulate grades of B or better in course units aggregating to at least 30 credits of
SLQF 3
(b) obtain a GPA of 3.30 or greater, and
(c) complete the relevant requirements within one academic year.
Re-sitting
(I) Any unsuccessful candidate will be allowed to re-sit and secure a pass, within
following three consecutive years.
(II) The best grade obtainable by a candidate who re-sits the examination and fulfils
requirements
is ‘C’ grade, unless he or she is applying under Medical Repeat category.
Re-registration
Candidates, who are unable to complete the above requirements to pass the examination within
three consecutive years can apply for re-registration by paying 30% of the Course Fee.
Administrative Staff:
Vice Chancellor, University of Kelaniya
Dean, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya.
Head, Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies, University of Kelaniya.
Course Coordinator, Diploma Course in Pali & Buddhist Studies, University of Kelaniya.
Academic Board:
Ven. Senior Prof. T. Dhammarathana, B.A., (Hons.) (Kelaniya), Ph.D. (Delhi) Senior lecturerr,
Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Senior Prof. Udita Garusinghe, B.A., M.A. (Kel’ya), M.A., Ph.D. (Otani-Japan) Senior Lecturer,
Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Ven. Prof. N. Gnanaratana, B.A.(Hons.) (Kelaniya), Rajakeeya Pandita, Ph.D. (Delhi), Senior
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Lecturer, Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Ven. Prof. Makuruppe Dhammananda , B.A., M.A.,( Kelaniya)M.A.,(BPU) Rajakeeya Pandita,
Ph.D.(Delhi) Senior Lecturer, Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Members of the Academic Staff:
Ven. Senior Prof. T. Dhammarathana, B.A., (Hons.) (Kelaniya), Ph.D. (Delhi) Senior Lecturer,
Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Senior Prof. Udita Garusinghe, B.A., M.A. (Kel’ya), M.A., Ph.D. (Otani-Japan) Senior Lecturer,
Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Ven. Prof. N. Gnanaratana, B.A., (Hons.) (Kelaniya), Rajakeeya Pandita, Ph.D. (Delhi) Senior
Lecturer, Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Ven. Prof. Makuruppe Dhammananda Thero, B.A., M.A.,( Kelaniya)M.A.,(BPU)Rajakeeya
Pandita, Ph.D.(Delhi) Senior Lecturer, Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Ven. Prof. Naotunne Wimalagnana, B.A. .(Kel’ya), M.A.(Kel’ya), M.Sc.(Kel’ya) Dip. in Ed
(C'bo),Ph.D. .(Kel’ya) Senior Lecturer, Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Dr. Rajita P. Kumara, B.A.(Hons.), M.A.(Kelaniya), Ph.D.(China), Senior Lecturer, Dept. of Pali &
Buddhist Studies.
Ven. Dr. Deniyaye Pannaloka Thero, B.A.(Hons.), M.A.(Kelaniya) PhD (Japan),Senior Lecturer,
Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Ven. Dr. Welimadagama Kusaladamma Thero, B.A., M.A., M.Phil. (Kel'ya) PG.Dip. (B&PU),
Pracina Pandita, PhD (USA), Senior Lecturer, Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Dr. K. A. Kaluarachchi, B.A. (USJP), M.A. (BPU), Ph.D (USJP), Lecture (unconfirmed), Dept. of Pali
& Buddhist Studies.
Resource Persons:
Prof. Ananda Wijeratna, B.A.(Hons.) (Vidyodaya), M.A. (North Western), Ph.D. (Kelaniya), Post
Graduate Diploma in Archaeology (Kelaniya), Post Graduate Diploma in International
Relations(BCIS), Retired Senior Lecturer, Dept. of Pali & Buddhist Studies.
Syllabus of the Diploma Programme
Course code : DPBS 03014
Title : Historical Background of Buddhism
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Status : Compulsory
Learning outcome : By the end of this course unit, the students will be able to
explain Vedic teachings and practices of Brahmins.
describe contemporary religious views of sramana traditions.
introduce life of the Buddha and identity of Buddhism.
trace out establishment and growth of Buddhist Order.
survey spread of Buddhism in India and political contribution to
Buddhism.
Course content : Cultural and philosophical background of Vedic period: Development of
Vedic thought in Brahma and Upanisad periods: belief in creator God,
polytheism, monotheism and monism: practice of sacrifice and cast: concepts
such as Atman, Brahma, Karma, Yoga and rebirth; Buddhist critique towards
Brahma and sramana teachings and practices, development of Buddhist Order.
Method of teaching : Lectures, classroom discussions and case studies.
Assessment : Mid-year presentations, assignments and end of course
examination
Recommended readings:
1. Basham,A.L, (1975), ed A Cultural History of India, Oxford.
2. Barua,M.B, (1925), Pre-Buddhistic Indian Philosophy. Culcutta.
3. Radhakrishnan,S, (1958), India Philosophy, Vol.I, London.
4. Jayatilleke,K.N, (1963), Early Buddhist Theory of Knowledge, pp. 1.168, London.
5. Pande,G.C, (1995), Studies in the Origins of Buddhism, Motilal Banarasidas,
6. Davids,Rhys (1959), Buddhist India, 8th ed, Calcutta.
7 Warder A.K., Indian Buddhism. Delhi.
Course code : DPBS 03024
Title : Fundamental Teachings of Buddhism
Status : Compulsory
Learning outcome By the end of this course unit, the students will be able to
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describe basic teachings of Buddhism such as Dependent Co-
origination, Four Noble Truths etc.
discuss comparatively the Buddhist teachings with contemporary
non-Buddhist views.
apply Buddhist teachings as solutions to address the current issues.
Course content : Tilakkhana (three characteristics); Cattari Ariyasaccani (four
noble truths); Ariya Atthangikamagga (noble eight-fold path);
Paticcasamuppada (dependent co- origination); Pancakkhandha (five
aggregates); Dvadasayatana (twelve faculties); Punabbhava (kamma and
rebirth); Nibbana (emancipation).
Method of teaching : Lectures, classroom discussions and assignments.
Assessment : Mid-year presentations, assignments and end of course
examination
Recommended readings :
1. Walpola, Rahula, (1959), What the Buddha Taught, Bedford.
2. Wader,A.K, (1980), Indian Buddhism, Delhi.
3. Thomas,E.J, (1993), The History of Buddhist Thought, New Delhi.
4. Kalupahana,D.J, (1976), Buddhist Philosophy : A Historical Analysis , Honolulu.
5. Narada, Venerable, (1965) The Buddha and his Teaching, 4th edition, Malaysia,
6 Murti T.R.V. (1955), The Central Philosophy of Buddhism, London.
7 Jayatilleke K.N. (1963), Early Buddhist Theory of Knowledge, London.
8 Kalupahana, D.J (1983), Causality: The Central Philosophy of Buddhism, Honolulu.
9 Jayatilleke,K.N.,(1975),The Message of the Buddha,ed.Ninian Smart, London
10 Karunadasa Y, (2013) Early Buddhist Teachings, The University of Hong Kong.
Course Code : DPBS 03034
Title : Selected Readings in Pali Literature
Type : Optional
Learning Outcome : After the completion of this course unit, the students should be
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able to
read and copy down Pali canonical and commentarial passages identifying
and employing correct diacritical marks.
recite by memory the more important and necessary verses and phrases
selected from the texts.
give the meaning and translate the passages or discourses into English.
describe the meaning of the discourses.
analyze the grammar of words and sentences.
produce scientific and philosophical presentations on Buddhist teaching.
Course Content : Selected Texts; Samyuttanikaya 1 (Brahma samyutta),
Anguttaranikaya 1 (first five vaggas), Udanapali (Jaccanda vagga),
Dhammapadatthakatha (Cakkhupalavatthu). Under this course unit,
reading Pali passages, copying down, recitation, understanding of the
meaning, translation of passages, analyzing the content and grammar
as well as producing scientific and philosophical presentations on
Buddhist concepts is expected.
Method of Teaching : Lectures, classroom discussions, presentations, and
assignments.
Scheme of Assessment: Mid-year presentations, assignments and end of course
examination.
Recommended readings :
1 Malalasekara, G.P, (1958), The Pali Literature of Ceylon, Colombo.
2 Norman, K.R., (1988), Pali Literature, PTS, London.
3 Bode, M.H. , (1965), The Pali Literature of Burma, Rangoon.
4 Warder, A.K., (1961), The Pali Canon and its Commentaries, London.
5 Anuruddha, Kakkapalliye, (2008), The Buddhist Councils, Hong Kong.
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6 Pande, G.C. (1974), Studies in the Origins of Buddhism, Delhi.
7 Warder, A.K., (1980), Indian Buddhism, Motilal Banarsidass, Delhi.
Course Code : DPBS 03044
Title : Pali Grammar & Literature
Type : Optional
Learning Outcome : After the completion of this course unit, the students should be
able to
write down the Pali alphabet and its divisions.
show the divisions of Pali combinations, join and disjoin Pali words.
describe categories of Pali nouns and verbs,
write down Pali declension and conjugation tables by memory.
explain Pali grammar components such as Samasa, Taddhita, Kitaka, Nipata,
Upasarga and syntactical uses of cases.
introduce origin and evolution of Pali language.
Explain the content of the Pali Tipitaka.
evaluate the historical development of the Pali Tipitaka.
Explain the significance of Buddhist Councils in compilation of Tipitaka.
introduce Pali commentarial (Atthakatha) and sub-commentarial (Tika)
literature separately.
describe the authenticity and value of the content of Pali compendiums like
chronicles, grammatical treatises and other compositions.
Course Content : Pali grammar components such as Pali alphabet, euphonic
combinations(sandhi) , nouns (nama), verbs (kriya), nominal compounds
(samasa), secondary and primary derivatives (taddhita and kitaka)
particles (nipata) and cases (vibhakti)
Pali literature, origin and development of Pali canonical, commentarial
and compendium texts, contents of them and the relevance of Buddhist
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councils in the history of Pali literature, introduction of Buddhism to Sri
Lanka and the evolution of pali exegetical tradition, Pali commentaries
(attakatha), sub-commentaries (tika), compendiums (sangaha),
chronicles (vamsakatha), grammatical treatises (vyakarana) and the
texts on poetics and prosody
Method of Teaching : Lectures, discussions, presentations, and assignments.
Scheme of Assessment: Mid-year presentations, assignments and end of course
examination.
Recommended readings:
1 Anuruddha, Kakkapalliye, (2010), A Guide to the Study of Pali, Hong Kong.
Gnanaratana, -
2 Buddhadatta, A.P., (1937), New Pali Course, I & II, Colombo.
3 N.Gnanaratana, (2015), Pali Grammar for Tipitaka Studies, Colombo.
4 James W. Gair & W.S. Karunatilake, (2005), A New Course in Reading Pali,
Motilal Banarsidass, Delhi.
5 Silva, Lily de, (1994), Pali Primer, India.
6 Geiger, W., (1956), Pali Literature and Language, Tr. Batakrishna Ghosh, Calcutta.
7 Rune E.A. Johansson, Pali Buddhist Texts: An Introductory Reader and Grammar.
Curzon Press, Surrey.
Course Code : DPBS 03052
Title : Buddhist Cultural Diversity in Asia
Type : Optional
Learning Outcome : After the completion of this course unit, the students should be
able to
trace out history of Buddhism in Asian countries.
show socio-political connection of Buddhism in respective countries.
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criticize the position of Buddhism in socio-cultural revivals.
explain international relations of Buddhism in respective countries.
explain the impact of Buddhism on rights and rituals.
describe the past and present of the community of Buddhist Sangha.
evaluate the Buddhist art and architecture.
examine the practical aspect of Buddhism in present day.
examine the socio-cultural challenges that Buddhism face today.
Course Content : A general understanding of the cultural history of Buddhism in India, Sri
Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, China, Japan, Korea, Laos, Cambodia, Bangladesh
and Nepal is expected. Attention should be focused on introduction of
Buddhism and its expansion, socio-political connections, position of Buddhism
in socio-cultural revivals, philosophical and doctrinal trends, international
relations, impact of Buddhism on rights and rituals, past and present of the
community of Buddhist Sangha, Buddhist art and architecture, contribution of
the spread of Buddhism.
Method of Teaching : Lectures, discussions, presentations, and assignments.
Scheme of Assessment: Mid-year presentations, assignments and end of course
examination.
Recommended readings
1 Rowlands, Jr, B, (1953), The Art and Architecture of India, London.
2 Banerjee, A.C., (1973), Buddhism in India and Abroad, Calcutta.
3 Paranavitana, S., (1954), Art and Architecture of Ceylon, Polonnaruwa Period, Colombo.
4 Ridley, M., (1980), The Art of World Religions: Buddhism, New York.
5 Hazra, K.L., (1982), History of Theravada Buddhism in South-east Asia, New Delhi.
6 Rahula, W, (1956), History of Buddhism in Ceylon, Colombo.
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Course Code : DPBS 03054
Title : Elementary Buddhist Sanskrit.
Type : Optional
Learning Outcome : After the completion of this course unit, the students should be
able to
employ the Sanskrit alphabet and basic grammar for transliteration.
read and copy the sentences and passages composed in the Devanagari script.
be familiar with the key doctrinal terms and idiomatic expressions in Buddhist Sanskrit
Literature.
read the grammatically simpler passages in some important Buddhist Sanskrit texts
including the Udānavarga (corresponding to the Pali Dhammapada), some chapters of the
Abhidharmakośa-bhāṣya, the Prajñāpāramitā-hṛdaya-sūtra, the Vajracchedikā
Prajñāpāramitā, the Aṣṭasāhaśrikā Prajñāpāramitā and the Vijñaptimātratā-siddhi.
Course Content : This elementary course is meant for the absolute beginners.
Students will be introduced to the Sanskrit Devanagari alphabets and basic Sanskrit
grammar required for reading simple Buddhist Sanskrit passages. The focus will be to
familiarize students with the basic Buddhist terminologies, idiomatic expressions and the
simpler verse and passages in the Buddhist Sanskrit texts, particularly the Udānavarga, the
Abhidharmakośa-bhāṣya, the Prajñāpāramitā-hṛdaya-sūtra, the Vajracchedikā
Prajñāpāramitā, the Aṣṭasāhaśrikā Prajñāpāramitā and the Vijñaptimātratā-siddhi.
Grammatical study will include the declension of nouns with different vowel and
consonant endings; conjugations of the 10 verb classes; active and passive voices; genitive
and locative absolute constructs; participles; gerund; the imperative and optative moods;
present and future tenses; past tenses covering mainly the imperfect tense and some
other past tense forms occurring more commonly in the prescribed texts.
Prescribed Textbooks :
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1. Dhammajoti, K.L. (2013), Reading Buddhist Texts: An Elementary Grammtical Guide. Hong
Kong.
Conze, E. (1957), Vajracchedikā Prajñāpāramitā: Edited and Translated, with Introduction and
Glossary. Serie Orientale Rome XIII. Rome.
2. Willemen (1975), ‘Udānavarga’, with Chinese-Sanskrit Glossary. Tokyo.
3. Dhammajoti, K.L. (1995), The Chinese Version of Dharmapada: Translated with Introduction
and Annotations. Colombo.
Method of Teaching : Lectures, discussions, presentations, and assignments.
Scheme of Assessment: Mid-year presentations, assignments and end of course examination.
Recommended Readings
1. Nariman, J.K. (1919), Literary History of Sanskrit Buddhism. India.
2. Edgerton, F. (1953), Buddhist Hybrid Sanskrit Grammar and Dictionary, Part I,
Introduction. New Haven.
3. Warder, A.K. (1970), Introduction to Pali. London.
4. Dayal, H. (1970), The Bodhisattva Doctrine in Buddhist Sanskrit Literature. Delhi.
5. Conze, E. (1960), The Prajnaparamita Literature. S. Gravenhage.
6. Conze, E. (1970), The Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Slokas. Calcutta.
7. Bhikkhu, Anandajoti (2007), A Comparative Edition of the Dhammapada. Neptune Connection
(Pvt) Ltd. Sri Lanka.
8. Vaidya, P.L. (ed.) (1961), Mahāyāna-Sūtra-saṃgraha, Part I. Dharbanga, Bihar.
9. Bucknell, Roderick S., Sanskrit Manual. Delhi.
Course Code : DPBS 03062
Title : Theravada and Mahayana.
Type : Optional
Learning outcome : After the completion of this course unit, the students should be
able to
describe disputes among disciples emerged during the Buddha’s time.
introduce three Buddhist Councils.
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show the causes leading to schism in Buddhist Order.
explain early Buddhist schools in brief.
introduce philosophical and cultural trends of early Buddhist schools.
describe the origin of Theravada and Mahayana traditions.
introduce geographical expansion of Northern and Southern Buddhism.
explain historical evolution of Theravada and Mahayana.
introduce the centers of Theravada and Mahayana.
introduce the conceptual identity of prominent teachers in Mahayana.
Course content : Disputable incidents took place within Buddhist Order during
the Buddha’s time, Buddhist Councils, historical background of early
Buddhist schools, divisions of schools of Buddhism and their
philosophical and cultural trends.
Emergence of Theravada and Mahayana traditions, their geographical
expansion, historical evolution, prominent centers and teachers of two
traditions, impact of Theravada and Mahayana traditions on Buddhism
and society.
Method of Teaching : Lectures, discussions, presentations, and assignments.
Scheme of Assessment: Mid-year presentations, assignments and end of course
examination.
Recommended readings :
1 Puri B. N, (1987), Buddhism in Central Asia, Motilal Banarsidas, Delhi.
2 Hazra,K.L,(1988), History of Theravada Buddhism in South-East Asia, Munsriram
Manoharlal, Delhi.
3. Conze Edward, (1962), Buddhist thought in India, Allen and Unwin, London.
4. Mcgoveru,W.M, (1997), An Introduction to Mahāyāna Buddhism, Munsriram Manoharlal,
Delhi.
5 Anuruddha K. (2008), The First and Second Buddhist Councils, Hong Kong.
6 Hirakawa Akira, (1990), A History of Indian Buddhism; from Sakyamuni to Early Mahayana.
7 Bapat, P.V, (1959), 2500 years of Buddhism, Delhi.
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8 Dutt, S.,(1978), The Buddha and Five after Centuries, Calcutta.
9 Dutt, N, (1977), Buddhist sects in India, Calcutta.
10 Masuda, J, (1925), Origin and Doctrines of Early Indian Buddhist Schools, (Tr. Shyuan Tzang's
version of Vasumitra's treatise) Asia Major, Leipzig, Vol. ii, (pp.1-78).
Course Code : DPBS 03064
Title : Buddhist Ethics and meditation
Type : Compulsory
Learning outcome : By the end of this course unit, the students will be able to
define what ethics is and introduce Buddhist ethics ,
clarify ethics found in Vinaya Pitaka and other discourses,
apply Buddhist ethics and meditation to establish peace and wellbeing of
individual and society,
compare and contrast discipline and rule of law
explain the significance of mindfulness
show the impact of meditation in human life
identify the necessity of ethics and meditation to attain to ultimate goal.
Course content : Religious and philosophical definitions to ethics; Buddhist
discourses leading to ethics; freewill and morality; kusala- akusala;
criteria of ethical judgment ; duty and obligation; ethics and social
welfare; Buddhist ethics related to religion, politics, economics and
society; teacher-pupil ethics;
psycho- physical disorders; worry and fear; citta, mano and vinnana;
mind culture; mind development and peace; insight meditation leading
to self-control; sila, samadhi and pannā; nibbana - the supreme bliss;
Method of teaching : Lectures, classroom discussions and assignments.
Assessment : Mid-year Assignments, presentations and end of course
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examination.
Recommended readings :
1. Jayatileke,K.N, (1972), Ethics in Buddhist Perspective, BPU, Kandy.
2. Saddhatissa Thero, H, (1970), Buddhist Ethics, Allen and Unwin, London.
3. Tachibana,S, (1997), Ethics in Buddhism, Surrey.
4. De Silva Padmasiri,(1979), An Introduction to Buddhist Psychology, Macmillan, London.
5 Galmangoda Sumanapala, (2005), Buddhist Social Philosophy and Ethics,
Singapore.
6 Rune Johansson, E.A, (1985), The Dynamic Psychology of Early Buddhism, Curzon Press,
London.
7 Guruge Ananda, W.P.(1984), Buddhism the religion and its culture, Dharmaduta, Colombo.
8 Dhammajoti K.L,(2015), Buddhist Meditative Practice, The University of Hong Kong.
Course code : DPBS 03074
Title : Abhidhamma and Development of Buddhist Thought
Status : Optional
Learning outcome : By the end of this course unit, the students will be able to
define Abhidhamma in respective of teachings in the Tipitaka,
explain origin and evolution of Abhidhamma,
discuss the psychological importance of Abhidhamma,
show schools of Abhidhamma and their teachings,
examine controversial points found in Abhidhamma movements,
explain the method of analysis in Abhidhamma,
Course content : Place of Abhidhamma in the Buddhist Tipitaka; authenticity
of Abhidhamma as the teaching of the Buddha; emergence of
Abhidhamma philosophy; Abhidhamma literature of Therāvada and
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Sarvāstivāda; Abhidhamma compendiums; analysis of mind; methods of
synthesis and analysis of Abhidhamma;
Method of teaching : Lectures, classroom discussions and assignments.
Scheme of Assessment : Mid-year presentations, assignments and end of course
examination.
Recommended readings
1. Nyanatiloka, (1949), Guide Through the Abhidhamma Pitaka, Colombo.
3. Norman,K.R, (1982), Pali Literature, PTS, London.
4. Hirakawa Akira, (1993), A History of Indian Buddhism, Delhi.
5 Karunadasa Y, (2010), The Theravada Abhidhamma, The University of Hong Kong.
5 Dhammajoti KL, (2015), Sarvastivada Abhidhamma, The Buddha-Dharma Centre,Hong Kong.
6 Galmangoda Sumanapala, (1998), An introduction to Theravāda Abhidhamma,
Singapore.
7. Galmangoda Sumanapala, (2005), Abhidhammic Interpretation of Early Buddhist
teachings, Singapore.
Course Code : DPBS 03082
Title : English for Buddhist Studies
Type : Optional
Learning Outcome : After the completion of this course unit, the students should be
able to
read and understand the English writings on Buddhism.
apply practical English in translations.
provide summary of the teachings found in Discourses.
employ technical terms appropriately.
show how to criticize religious compositions.
write critical evaluations on textual contexts.
make presentations in English.
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give brief sermons in English.
display rational thinking in communication.
express ideas using monastic phrases.
Course Content : Reading, writing and understanding of English compositions
on Buddhism, giving translations and summaries on textual accounts,
provide critical evaluations on religious issues, give talks and sermons
under the topics on Buddhism, making presentations in English, apply
monastic phrases in communication, use of correct technical terms.
Method of Teaching : Lectures, discussions, presentations, and assignments.
Scheme of Assessment: Mid-year assignments, presentations and end of course
examination.
Recommended readings;
1 English Through Buddhism, (1999) Postgraduate Institute of Pali & Buddhist Studies,
University of Kelaniya.
2 Rahula Walpola, (1978), What the Buddha Thought, Unwin brothers, Surrey.
3 Anuruddha Kakkapalliye, (2004), Dictionary of Pali Idioms, The Chi Lin Nunnery, Hong Kong.
Course code : DPBS 03084
Title : Selected Readings in Chinese Buddhist Sutras
Status : Optional
Learning outcome : By the end of this course unit, the students will be able to
introduce Chinese Tripiṭaka is the most voluminous Tripiṭaka in the world,
explain the value and influence of it on the Far Eastern Buddhist Culture.
examine short discourses and passages from the Chinese Āgama texts having
correspondences in the Pāli Sutta- Pitaka
describe passages from the Chinese Tripitaka.
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Course content : The Chinese Tripiṭaka as the most voluminous Tripiṭaka in the
world, its value for the understanding of Buddhism, doctrinal
importance and their influence on the Far Eastern Buddhist culture. (1)
short discourses and passages from the Chinese Āgama texts having
correspondences in the Pāli Sutta-piṭaka; (2) the Prajñāpāramitā-
hṛdaya, passages from the Vajracchedikā Prajñāpāramitā and the
Aṣṭasāharikā Prajñāpāramitā; (3) passages from the
Saddharmapuṇḍarīka- sūtra, the Sukhāvatī-vyūha-sūtra and the
Sandhinirmocana-sūtra; (4) passages from the Abhidharmakośabhāṣya,
(5) passages from the Viṃśatikā and Triṃśikā Vijñaptimātratā-siddhi,
and the Cheng-weishi-lun; (6) passages related to the
tathāgata-garbha doctrines, such as those from the Śrīmālā-devī-
siṃhanāda-sūtra.
Method of teaching : Lectures, classroom discussions and assignments.
Scheme of Assessment : Mid-year presentations,assignments and end of course
examination
Recommended readings :
1 Analayo, (2012), Madhyāgama. Dharma Drum Publication. Taipei
2 Sangharakshita, The Legacy of the Buddha. Wind horse Publication. London.
3 Warder, A.K.(1980), Indian Buddhism. Delhi.
4 Nakamura, H. Indian Buddhism. Delhi.
5 KL Dhammajoti, (2013),Reading Buddhist Sanskrit Texts: An Elementary Grammatical
Guide. Hong Kong.
6 Dhammajoti K.l. (2008), Entrance into the Supreme Doctrine: Skandhila’s
Abhidharmāvatāra (English translation). Hong Kong.
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7 Edward Conze, (1960), The Perfection of Wisdom in Eight Thousand Slokas. Calcutta.
8 Sara Web, The Teaching of Vimalakīrti (Vimalakīrtinirdeśa): From the French
Translation with Introduction and Notes.
9 Lamotte, E. The Vimalakīrti-nirdeśa. English Translation by Sāra Webs
10 Yin Shun, (1974), An Introduction to the Buddha-dharma (佛法概論). Taipei.
11 Yin Shun,(1978), Lecture Notes on the Prajñāpāramitā Sūtras (般若經講記) Taipei.
12 Yin Shun, Lecture Notes on the Śrīmālā-devī-siṃhanāda-sūtra (勝鬘夫人獅子吼經講記).
Taipei.
13 Yan Pei, Lecture Notes on the Sandhinirmocana-sūtra (解深密經講記). Singapore.
Course code : DPBS 03094
Title : Modern movements of Humanistic Buddhism.
Status : Optional
Learning outcome : By the end of this course unit, the students will be able to
identify significant Buddhist movements in the East and West,
show modern movements advocating the emphasis on “engaged Buddhism”
introduce Western thinking of the fundamental problem of human beings,
describe Buddhist spiritual praxis in modern living movement initiated by the
Venerable Tai Xu in China,
explain the concept “Buddhism is for the living, not for the dead”
introduce Buddhist humanistic movements such as the Fo Guang Shan led by the
Venerable Shing-yun, Ci Ji led by Venerable Sheng-yan,
criticize Venerable Thich Nhat Hanh’s movement of mindfulness and “Engaged
Buddhism”
examine Venerable Saṅgharakṣita’s “Friends of the Western Buddhist Order”
show the significance of Triratna, and practice (the eightfold-path and the six
pāramitas in particular) into modern living.
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Course content : This course unit studies the following movements: The early
20th century movement initiated by the Venerable Tai Xu in China, his lectures
and writings, his concept of Buddhism is for the living, not for the dead:
subsequent Buddhist humanistic movements such as the Fo Guang Shan led by
the Venerable Shing-yun and Ci Ji led by Venerable Sheng-yan, Venerable Thich
Nhat Hanh’s movement emphasizing the practice of mindfulness and “Engaged
Buddhism”. Venerable Saṅgharakṣita’s “Friends of the Western Buddhist Order”
movement that advocates a non-sectarian approach, the need of true
commitment to the Triratne, and integration of both understanding and
practice (the eightfold-path and the six paramitas in particular) into modern
living.
Method of teaching : Lectures, classroom discussions and assignments.
Scheme of Assessment : Mid-year presentations, assignments and end of course
examination.
Recommended readings :
1 Gombrich Richard, (1988), Theravada Buddhism, A social History from Ancient Benares to
Modern Colombo, Routledge & Kegan Paul, London.
2 Analayo, (2009), From Craving to Liberation, The Buddhist Association of the United
States, New York.
3 Premasiri, P.D. (2002), Ethics in Buddhism; Encyclopaedia of Buddhism, Colombo.
4 Tilakeratne Asanga, (1993) Nirvana & Ineffability, PGIPBS, Colombo,
5 Sangharakshita, A Survey of Buddhism. 2nd ed. Wind horse Publication. London.
6 Sangharakshita, The Legacy of the Buddha. Wind horse Publication. London.
7 Thich Nhat Hanh, The Miracle of Mindfulness: A Manual on Meditation, Beacon Press,
1999.
8 Thich Nhat Hanh, Essential Writings, Robert Ellsberg (Editor), Orbis Books, 2001.
9 Christopher S Queen, and Sallie B. King (ed), Engaged Buddhism, State University of New
York Press, 1996.
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End of Programme