TBCM’s STATEMENT ON THE ATTACK OF MAHABODHI TEMPLE

TBCM’s STATEMENT ON THE ATTACK OF MAHABODHI TEMPLE ON 7 JULY 2013.

Theravada Buddhist Council of Malaysia expresses strong disapproval on the acts of terrorism on 7 July 2013 in attacking the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, India, one of the most revered site of the millions of Buddhists worldwide. A few pilgrims were injured as result of the multiple blasts. Some building structures were damaged as well.

Bodhgaya is the place where the Buddha Gautama was enlightened about 2,600 years ago. For the next 45 years after His Enlightenment, the Buddha helped spread Love, Compassion and Wisdom. Hence, the attack on this sacred site of Buddhism is an attack on humanity based on love, compassion and wisdom, rooted in peace and non-violence.

TBCM calls upon all peace-loving people, irrespective of their religious background, in the world to voice disapproval to such acts of violence against this and all other sacred places. Let us be united in one voice and one heart to send a strong message to the perpetrators to stop their acts of violence against humanity.

TBCM, however, calls upon fellow Buddhists to exercise restraint and forgiveness towards those perpetrators. Some of us may want to vent our anger but let us be guided by the Buddha’s Teachings that “Hatred is not overcome by hatred, hatred is only overcome by love” (Dhammapada verse 5). In this moment of intimidation, let us free our mind from anger and hatred but instead act in accordance with the Dhamma, radiating goodwill towards all other beings but at the same time, expressing our strong disapproval of all acts of terrorism on all places of worship.

Theravada Buddhist Council of Malaysia8 July 2013