Which is the state religion of Sri Lanka?a)Buddhismb)Hinduismc)Islamd)ChristianityCorrect answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Question

Answer

Option A is correct....,,,,................. BECAUSE.....,,,,,BUDDHISM is the major religion in SRI LANKA, with about 70% of the country's population as followers. .......   ...... ....IN the past years...,,,,,...   Sri Lanka had passed a ACT in which they protect BUDDHISM .......

Answer

Buddhism

Answer

Buddhism

Answer

Theravada Buddhism is the major religion in Sri Lanka, with about 70% of the country's population as followers.
Arahath Mahinda son of Indian Buddhist emperor Ashoka, led the mission to Sri Lanka in 246 BCE where he converted the Sri Lankan king of that time Devanampiya Tissa to Buddhism.

Answer

State Religion of Sri Lanka: Buddhism

Sri Lanka is a country located in South Asia, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse religious practices. The state religion of Sri Lanka is Buddhism, making it the only country in the world with a Buddhist state religion. Buddhism plays a significant role in shaping the country's culture, traditions, and values.

Historical Background:
1. Introduction of Buddhism: Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa. The Indian Emperor Ashoka sent his son, Mahinda, to Sri Lanka to spread the teachings of Buddhism.
2. Conversion to Buddhism: King Devanampiya Tissa and his royal court converted to Buddhism, marking the beginning of the religion's influence on the island.
3. Patronage by Monarchs: Over the centuries, Sri Lankan monarchs played a crucial role in promoting and protecting Buddhism. They built numerous temples, stupas, and monasteries, and supported Buddhist institutions.

Legal Status of Buddhism in Sri Lanka:
1. Constitution: The Constitution of Sri Lanka recognizes Buddhism as the foremost religion and grants it special privileges.
2. Article 9: Article 9 of the Constitution explicitly states that 'The Republic of Sri Lanka shall give to Buddhism the foremost place and accordingly it shall be the duty of the State to protect and foster the Buddha Sasana.'
3. State Patronage: The government provides financial support to Buddhist institutions, including maintenance of temples, monasteries, and Buddhist educational institutions.

Social and Cultural Influence:
1. Rituals and Festivals: Buddhism has deeply influenced the religious rituals, customs, and festivals celebrated by the majority Sinhalese population. Vesak, Poson, and Esala Perahera are some of the prominent Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka.
2. Buddhist Heritage Sites: Sri Lanka is home to numerous ancient Buddhist heritage sites, such as the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, and Polonnaruwa. These sites attract both local and international tourists, showcasing the rich Buddhist history of the island.
3. Buddhist Education: Buddhist education plays a vital role in Sri Lankan society. Buddhist monks are actively involved in providing spiritual guidance, teaching meditation practices, and preserving Buddhist literature.

Religious Pluralism:
1. Coexistence with other Religions: While Buddhism is the state religion, Sri Lanka is a multi-religious country with significant populations of Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. The constitution guarantees freedom of religion, allowing individuals to practice their faiths freely.
2. Interfaith Dialogue: Sri Lanka promotes interfaith dialogue and harmony among different religious communities to foster peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding.

In conclusion, Buddhism holds a special place in Sri Lanka as the state religion, influencing various aspects of the country's culture, legal framework, and social fabric. The recognition and protection of Buddhism in the Sri Lankan Constitution reflect the country's commitment to preserving and promoting its Buddhist heritage.

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