History of Buddhism; history of Nalanda; history or heritage-related topics.
The Kedah State authority in charge of tourism has chosen to feature the famous Bujang Valley Archaeological Museum and Mount Jerai on its posters for next year’s ‘Discover Kedah 2016’ programme. Nalanda Founder Bro. Tan remarked that the posters featuring historical sites in Kedah were well-chosen as the state was rich in culture and heritage.
Read moreOn Saturday 17 October, the Director of Nalanda Institute Achariya Tan Siang Chye gave the last lecture of the BPS 303 – Certificate in Buddhist Studies course at Nalanda Centre. The topic was on the “Historical Development of Buddhist Texts and Scriptures”. Before passing away, the Buddha declared to his His disciples that, “the Dhamma and Vinaya (doctrine and discipline) I have set forth and laid down for you shall be your teacher after I am gone…” Thus, the Buddha did not appoint a successor but enshrined the Dhamma-vinaya as the guiding principle in one’s practice and quest for liberation.
Read moreBuilt during the Srivijaya Period in the 9th Century C.E., Borobudur is one of the largest and most impressive Buddhist monuments in the world. Its structure symbolizes the entire Buddhist cosmology comprising different realms of existence. Thousands of sculptures and relief carvings chronicling the Buddha’s life adorn the enormous stupa, making it extremely rich in narratives.
Read moreExcerpt from an article by Bro. Dr. H S Tan; 17 May 2015.
The Honorable Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi had just concluded a 3-day landmark official visit to China, his first as the country’s Head of Government. Western media often like to portray India and China as political rivals, or even natural enemies. However, these two ancient civilizations had been peacefully connected for more than 2,000 years – and a strong element that bound them together was Buddhism.
Read moreEver wondered why the Buddhist Flag is so colourful?
Well, it was not originally intended to be attention-grabbing; but it is undoubtedly conspicuous and eye-catching! You see, the Flag was designed way back in 1885 in Sri Lanka. Back then, the emerging modern Buddhist movement needed a peaceful yet potent symbol to rally followers around.
Read moreThe Buddhist Flag was first hoisted in Sri Lanka on Wesak Day, 28 April 1885, when the country was still under British colonial rule. At that time, the majority Sinhalese Buddhist population felt discriminated against by the colonial authorities when carrying out their religious activities, as well as pressurized by relentless foreign evangelism. The Buddhists needed an icon to peacefully rally around, and hence, the idea of the ‘Buddhist Flag’ was conceived.
Read moreAfter almost six years of painful and ultimately futile austerities, Siddhattha Gotama abandoned the practice of self-mortification that did not lead to liberation from suffering. He then came to the bank of Nerañjara River, to the village of Senanigāma.
Read moreAfter leaving Rajagaha, Siddhattha Gotama went to the vicinity of Uruvela to further his cultivation towards liberation. There, He was joined by five ascetics in the practice of extreme abstinence from food, rest, and any semblance of comfort, in the belief that such self-mortification can lead to the liberation of the mind from craving and clinging.
Read moreReport by tour participants Sis. Kwa Ai Ai, Livin Leow and Mudita Chan
A special expedition comprising Nalanda Institute’s Director, officers, and students of BPS402 Higher Certificate in Buddhist Studies set-off for a fabulous study tour to Bujang Valley in Kedah from 4 – 6 October. The entourage of 40 participants was privilege to be guided by Bro. H S Tan and hosted by Nalanda Sungai Petani Branch.
Read moreOver the weekend of 4 – 6 October, Nalanda Institute Malaysia organized a special study tour for BPS402 Higher Certificate students to Bujang Valley, Kedah. Led by Nalanda Institute’s Director Achariya Tan Siang Chye, the group of 40 Nalanda Institute officers and students were privileged to be guided by Bro. H S Tan through the archaeological and historical sites in and around Sungai Petani.
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