This serves as a concise guide for the members of the Sri Sambuddha trust (“trust members”) and organizers of events globally (“organisers”), ensuring consistency and authenticity in representing Venerable Gnanaloka’s lineage teachings and the mission of the Sri Sambuddha Mission Charitable Trust (“core ethos”).
Purpose: To guide organizers and Trust members in representing Venerable Gnanaloka’s teachings and the core ethos.
1. Core Message
Venerable Gnanaloka’s teachings are rooted in the authentic Dhamma of the Buddha, emphasizing:
- The study and contemplation of the Suttas, as preserved in the Sutta Piṭaka, with a special focus on selected discourses from the Majjhima Nikāya (Middle-Length Discourses) and Samyutta Nikāya (Connected Discourses), to cultivate direct experiential insight.
- Mindfulness (Satipaṭṭhāna) and meditation as the means for cultivating the factors of liberation (bodhipakkhiya dhamma).
- Non-attachment, simplicity and the selfless service towards the core ethos as keys to inner freedom.
- The cārikā tradition (wandering asceticism) as a path to resilience, wisdom, and compassion.
The Trust is dedicated to preserving and propagating these teachings for the welfare of all beings.
2. Key Principles for Organizers
A. Authenticity:
- Ensure all activities align with the Buddha’s teachings as preserved in the Suttas.
- Represent the core ethos of Ven Gnanaloka accurately, avoiding personal interpretations.
B. Simplicity and Humility:
- Reflect the values of minimalism and non-attachment in all engagements.
- Avoid commercialization or inappropriate promotion of events, ensuring all activities align with the core ethos of the Trust.
- Consult the appointed Trust representative in cases of ambiguity or uncertainty to ensure alignment with its principles.
C. Compassion and Inclusivity:
- Create an inclusive environment for all participants, regardless of background, ethnicity, race, gender, or experience, while staying true to the Core Ethos.
D. Collaborative harmony:
- Emphasize kindness and collaborative understanding in all interactions.
- Uphold authenticity, collaboration, and inclusivity, especially when personal differences in views arise.
3. Representing Venerable Gnanaloka and the Core Ethos
As an organizer:
- Speak with integrity: Share only what you understand and have experienced personally, in line with the core ethos.
- Uphold ethical standards: Follow the Five/Eight Precepts and the Trust’s guidelines in all engagements.
- Promote inclusivity: Welcome diverse audiences and foster a sense of community and harmony in line with the Core Ethos.
- Be a role model: Embody the values of mindfulness, compassion, collaboration and simplicity in your daily life.
4. Guidelines for Organizing Retreats and Programs
Before the Event:
- Complete the online application form, clearly indicate:
- Event type, purpose, and duration.
- Venue details and expected audience.
- Sources of funding and resources.
- Health, safety, and logistical plans.
- Appoint a liaison person to coordinate with the Trust and ensure alignment with its ethos.
During the Event:
- Maintain a peaceful, harmonious and respectful atmosphere conducive to meditation and learning.
- Ensure all teachings and activities are grounded in the selected Sutta book developed by the Trust, Word of the Buddha written by venerable Nyanathiloka Mahathera and instructions provided by venerable Gnanaloka thero.
- Avoid unnecessary deviations or commercialization. Any promotional material (including posters, videos, or audio) must receive approval from the Trust before use.
- All activities should be in alignment with the guidelines set out by the Trust.
After the Event:
- Share feedback and outcomes with the Trust.
- Dhamma sermons, videos, and audio recordings must only be published through the Sambuddha Mission Trust’s official platforms.
- Ensure any other recorded materials (photographs, video or audio recordings) related to the event are approved by the Trust before dissemination.
- Full copyright ownership of all audio and video content remains with the Sri Sambuddha Mission Trust.
5. Key Resources Available for Organisers
Website
Official website of Sri Sambuddha Mission Charitable Trust
Books
- Selected discourses from Majjhima and Samyutta Nikāya.
- Word of the Buddha written by venerable Nyanathiloka Mahathera.
Video Recordings
- Sri Sambuddha Mission Trust (Sinhala YouTube Channel)
- Buddhist Wisdom Trail (English YouTube Channel)
- @SriSambuddhaMission (TikTok Channel)
Facebook Page
Official Facebook page of Sri Sambuddha Mission Charitable Trust
Articles
Short Biographies (The Lineage)
The sincere practice, emphasis on the Suttas, and exemplary lifestyle of these esteemed monks deeply influenced and guided Ven. Bambalapitiye Gnanaloka Thero.