Ever wonder about the kings of monks? Here at Sangaraja Temple, we unravel the story of the last Sangaraja. This temple stands as a monument to a pivotal figure in Sri Lankan Buddhism. He was a king among monks.
Let’s journey back to a time of religious turbulence. During the reign of Sri Wijeya Rajasinghe from 1739 to 1747, foreign influence threatened to extinguish Buddhism. Monks faced assault and even death. Values disintegrated and the Dhamma suffered. It was a dark chapter in Sri Lanka’s spiritual history.
Enter Weliwita Sri Saranankara Thero. He was determined to restore Buddhism. He believed discipline was key. Monks with higher ordination should lead. He sought the patronage of King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe. He also enlisted the help of Wilbagedara’s Mohottala. This man braved sea dangers to bring ordained monks from Siam which is now Thailand.
Impressed by Thero’s heroism, Upali, a Siamese priest, trained him. Later, Thero was declared Chief Sanga Nayaka or Sangaraja of the island. This title recognized his leadership and dedication. He became the last Sangaraja.
Within the Malwatta Temple lies the Weliwita Saranankara Sangaraja Museum. It houses artifacts of this influential figure. It is a testament to his life and work.
The museum showcases the Thero’s humble room and its contents. It displays his tools and writings. Among the exhibits is a fan gifted by King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe. The fan declared him the Sanaga Nayaka Thero of the Tri Sinhala. Precious stones adorn its ivory frame.
Also on display is the Thero’s large alms bowl. It is made of Siamese clay. Upali gifted it to him. Ola leaves reveal the first Sinhalese alphabet he formulated. Letters in six languages demonstrate his linguistic knowledge. Ambassadors carried letters to the King of Siam. They requested Upasampada, or higher ordination, from Siamese monks.
The museum boasts a rare collection of palanquins. These include the royal palanquin. The Sangaraja Thero used the royal palanquin. It brought him back from exile to the palace. Another palanquin belonged to monks of a lesser order. These expertly crafted vehicles are decorated in red, green, and white. Circular cushions inside allowed monks to recline during travel. They traveled lying down, not seated. Strong bamboo poles supported the heavy vehicle. Six strong men carried it.
Gold threaded robes and ancient inscriptions add to the museum’s treasures. Certificates from Governors are also present. Colourful drawings accompany most writings.
One of the greatest treasures is the book on the Path of Purification. Colourful illustrations depict the 24 assurances by the 24 early Buddhas. Monks, including Sri Saranankara Thero, handwritten the full path of purification in the middle section. A Dutch Governor gifted the paper to King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe. He then gave it to the Sangaraja.
The museum showcases eighteenth-century wood carvings. These intricate details tell a story of Kandyan society’s life and customs. Even a coconut-shell spoon offers a glimpse into the past. These spoons have a longer handle and a small opening.
The Sangaraja Temple and its museum offer a profound insight. It is an insight into a critical era of Sri Lankan history. It highlights the life and legacy of a remarkable monk.