Buddhist Revival Movement

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What was the primary goal of the Buddhist Revival Movement?

The primary goal of the Buddhist Revival Movement was to rejuvenate and restore Buddhism in response to the colonial influence and missionary activities in Asia during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Who was Anagarika Dharmapala?

Anagarika Dharmapala was a key figure in the Buddhist Revival Movement, particularly in Sri Lanka and India, advocating for Buddhist education and the revival of Buddhist sites.

How did the Buddhist Revival Movement impact education?

The movement placed a strong emphasis on establishing educational institutions that taught Buddhist philosophy and practices alongside modern subjects, promoting a well-rounded education.

What role did colonialism play in the Buddhist Revival Movement?

Colonialism challenged traditional religious practices, prompting Buddhist leaders to revive and adapt Buddhism to resist foreign cultural and religious dominance.

Who was Henry Steel Olcott?

Henry Steel Olcott was an American military officer and co-founder of the Theosophical Society, who played a significant part in the Buddhist Revival Movement in Sri Lanka.

What was the Mahabodhi Society?

The Mahabodhi Society, founded by Anagarika Dharmapala in 1891, aimed to restore Buddhist control over important religious sites in India, like Bodh Gaya.

How did the Buddhist Revival Movement affect global Buddhism?

The movement helped spread awareness and interest in Buddhism internationally, leading to new Buddhist communities and practices around the world.

What was the significance of the Pali Text Society in the revival movement?

Established in 1881, the Pali Text Society was crucial in making the Pali Canon available in English, reviving interest and study in early Buddhist texts.

What changes did the movement bring to Buddhist rituals?

The revival movement streamlined rituals by returning to simpler, more authentic practices aligned closely with Buddhist scriptures.

Why was there a focus on laypeople in the revival movement?

The movement emphasized the role of laypeople to democratize Buddhist practices, making it accessible and relevant to all social classes.

What influence did the movement have on Buddhist art and architecture?

The Buddhist Revival Movement inspired a renaissance in Buddhist art and architecture, emphasizing traditional styles and themes while incorporating modern influences.

How did the revival movement address social issues?

It addressed social issues by promoting social welfare, education, and ethical conduct according to Buddhist values, thereby reforming communities from within.

What was the role of the Theosophical Society in the movement?

The Theosophical Society, through its interest in Eastern religions, helped bring Western attention and support to the Buddhist revival efforts.

How did Buddhist revivalists interact with Western scholars?

Buddhist revivalists worked alongside Western scholars to translate texts and promote academic studies, thus elevating Buddhism in scholarly discourse.

What is "protestant Buddhism" and its role in the movement?

"Protestant Buddhism" refers to a reformist approach within the Buddhist Revival Movement, emphasizing rationality and ethical conduct similar to Protestant Christianity.


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