The society in which we live today is highly competitive, consumerist and money-centered. Man is blind by desires and is cultivating pleasure-seeking attitudes. His machine-like lifestyle does not allow him to improve his spiritual matters. Society has been a mad house with sense-lacking people who are running after their own misguided concepts. Therefore, a drastic but ethical change is necessary to turn our society into a more suitable place for peaceful living.
Many do not see the relevance of Buddhist philosophy to day-to-day life and what it has to offer to us as a practical solution. Many think that Buddhism is just Nibbana-oriented religion. Needless to say that it is a misconception.
This book addresses some basic questions people frequently ask about Buddhism. Is Buddhism to be accepted with blind faith? Is it like other world religions? What is the relevance of Buddhism for the modern world? Does Buddhism suggest any socio-economic and political philosophy? Is it acceptable to modern scientific mind?
During my short stay in Buddhist Maha Vihara, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, I visited Kinnara Metta Buddhist Society (KMBS). Puchong, Selangor and there Sister Julie Tan (Hon. Secretary - KMBS) requested that I write a book on Buddhism for Publication and this is a result of her motivational request.
And KMBS needs to dedicate this book for the Spirituality and ecclesiastical service of Ven. B. Sri Saranankara, Chief Judicial Sangha Nayaka of Malaysia a token of their deep reverence for him. It is a privilege for me to join with them to pay gratitude to a Great Chief Monk who has a compassionate heart.
First and foremost, I am thankful to Sister Julie Tan and other members of KMBS for their effort to publish this book. My thanks are also to Ven. K Sri Dhammaratana, Chief Sangha Nayaka of Malaysia, Ven. K Siridhamma and the members of Buddhist Maha Vihara, Kuala Lumpur for their cooperation.
May my late revered teacher, Abhidhammika Beligalle Sri Dhammadhara Nayaka Thero share these meritorious energies and attain Nibbana!
May the power of Dhamma bless you!
May all beings be well and happy!
Ven. Dr. Beligalle Dhammajoti
Sri Vijaya Bimbaramaya
Gammedapitiya
Hakmana 81300
Sri Lanka
Email: beligalle@yahoo.com