FOREWORD

The Sasana Abhiwurdhi Wardhana Society takes pride in publishing “Question Time with Venerable Dr. K. Sri Dhammananda,” a collection of some of the questions addressed to the Venerable at his Internet Website (www.ksridhammanada.com), along with his lucid answers in the Buddhist context.

This selection from the literally hundreds of questions received was made on the basis of the questions most frequently asked, those seldom asked, the unusual, the profound, matters of the moment, etc. These questions have actually been asked. Some might be considered “sensitive” but they have been frankly answered because, in Buddhism, the truth is most important. There is no room for mystery or secrecy. Avijja (ignorance), one of the principal perpetrators of samsara (the cycle of birth, death and rebirth), needs to be replaced with wisdom and understanding.

The particulars of the letter writers have been disguised under acronyms to respect their privacy. In the interests of brevity, good grammar and language, the original letters have been edited without any deviation from the perceived object and spirit of the questions raised.

In the preparation of this booklet, common Pali (ancient Indian dialect spoken by the Buddha – the Enlightened One) words have been freely used. The object is that practicing Buddhists should become familiar with Pali for the better appreciation of the Dhamma (Teachings of the Buddha). It was used to record the Teachings of the Buddha. All Pali words used here are presented in bold italicised type and where it first appears in the text, a brief and contextually relevant English meaning is given in italics in parenthesis. Additionally, a Glossary is provided at the end giving all the Pali words used, arranged in alphabetical order, followed by the common English meaning/s. We trust this will help you build up a vocabulary of Pali terms to better understand and appreciate the Buddha’s Message.

Each letter received, and the answer that follows, has been printed on a new page. This has often left precious empty space on several pages. Selections from the Dhammapada (a line or stanza from the Buddha’s Teachings), as translated by the Venerable Sri Acharya Buddharakkhita, have been quoted to familiarise readers with some verses from the Khuddaka Nikaya (Compact Collection) of the Tipitaka (sacred Buddhist scriptures). We sincerely hope that these will inspire you to delve further into the Buddha Dhamma.

The Sasana Abhiwurdhi Wardhana Society gratefully acknowledges the efforts of Mr. Vijaya Samarawickrama, Mr. Sumanananda Premaseri and Mr. N.B.Dayananda for compiling the Glossary and their editing and proof-reading.

The Committee of Management,
Sasana Abhiwurdhi Wardhana Society
February 2007

Venerable Sir,

I have several questions to ask you regarding Buddhism. I hope that you are not too busy to answer the questions (detailed below) that I have. Thank you.

Sincerely in anticipation, AAA

Dear AAA,

First, may peace, happiness and contentment be yours through the Blessings of the Noble Triple Gem.

Next, to answer your questions: