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18 EASTERN HORIZON | FACE TO FACE

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How to Promote

Buddhism in the

Modern World?

By Ven Dr G Chandima

Venerable Dr. Gangodawila Benny Liow contacted Bhante Vajrayāna), I use the term “Patisota”
Chandima is the Associate and requested for an interview to explain the early teachings of
Editor of the Journal of for Eastern Horizon, which is Buddhism. When Buddhists base
International Buddhist Studies reproduced as follows: their practice on school Buddhism,
(JIBS), which is published by the Benny: Your official Facebook they often do not understand or
Buddhist Research Institute of page is called Paṭisota. What is the follow the true dhamma. This
Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya meaning of Paṭisota and how do is why it is critical to learn early
University in Thailand. He was you use it to promote Buddhism? Buddhism, which is the foundation
previously a research fellow at for school Buddhism. Early Buddhism
teaches true dhamma. Learning
the Centre for Studies in Religion Chandima: “Going upstream” is
and practicing true dhamma is a
and Society (CSRS), University of the meaning of the term Patisota.
challenging yet fulfilling path. I utilize
Victoria, Canada. Bhante was also In this context, “upstream” refers Patisota to help people in discovering
the Theravada Buddhist Chaplain to following the Noble Eightfold and incorporating early Buddhism
at the University of British Path. Many people’s life paths are into their dhamma journey, which is
typically “downstream,” meaning
Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, based on the Noble Eightfold Path. My
they follow the flow of others on
from 2012 to 2016. He is currently outreach on the Patisota Facebook
their way to unskilful activities
the senior advisor to Patisota, a page is primarily to promote
(akusala). For those who seek
virtual dhamma organization that to follow in the footsteps of the undiluted Buddhism (early Buddhism
hosts a weekly online Pali Reading Buddha, their path may often and not school Buddhism). To do this,
Class, Sutta discussions, dhamma involve going against the grain of I organize dhamma sharing in the
talks, and a variety of other the general public (upstream). form of presentations, discussions,
dhamma. activities. His dhamma retreats, interviews with Buddhist
activities can be accessed at Since many Buddhists follow school scholars and general practitioners
https://patisota.blogspot.com. Buddhism (Theravāda/ Mahāyāna/ and other activities.