A Monk Shot Down in Cold Blood

On June 19th, the Myanmar military struck a devastating blow against the spiritual and cultural fabric of the nation. The vehicle carrying Venerable Bhaddanta Muninda Bhivamsa, a respected monk and member of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee, was ambushed and fired upon by the military near Mandalay, leading to his tragic passing. This brutal attack is a glaring reminder of the severe danger the military poses to the future of the Dhamma in Myanmar, a country already suffering under the weight of prolonged conflict and oppression.

Venerable Bhaddanta Muninda Bhivamsa was traveling to attend a religious assembly in Mandalay when the attack occurred. Accompanied by fellow monks, including Venerable Bhaddanta Gunika Bhivamsa, their vehicle was targeted by the military as it passed between Myotha and Panchi Kamma villages. The military fired six shots, hitting the vehicle and causing immediate fatal injuries to Venerable Muninda Bhivamsa. Details are still coming in at this time, so we don't know the full story, but what we do know underscores the legacy of destruction and devastation the junta inflicts on monks, nuns, and monastic life.

Venerable Bhaddanta Muninda Bhivamsa was born in Paungde Township, Bago Region, and dedicated his life to the study and practice of Buddhism from a young age. He was known for his profound knowledge of Buddhist scriptures and his commitment to spreading the teachings of the Buddha. His efforts were not limited to monastic education; he also worked extensively to promote Buddhist culture and values in the wider community, along with meditation as well. Throughout his life, Venerable Muninda Bhivamsa was instrumental in the establishment and development of numerous monastic schools and institutions. He authored several significant works on Buddhist philosophy and practice, which have been widely used as teaching materials in monastic education. His writings, including detailed commentaries on canonical texts, have been highly regarded for their depth and clarity, providing valuable insights into Buddhist teachings.

In addition to his scholarly work, Venerable Muninda Bhivamsa was known for his compassionate and disciplined approach to monastic life. He was deeply involved in various social and humanitarian activities, often organizing and leading efforts to provide relief and support to those in need. His leadership and moral integrity made him a respected figure not only among monks but also among laypeople who looked up to him for guidance and inspiration.

The attack on him was not a random act of violence but rather a calculated move by the military, notorious for its ruthless suppression of dissent and control over religious institutions. His loss is a profound blow to the Buddhist community and the broader society that relies on the moral and spiritual guidance of its monastic leaders.

The military's actions signal a blatant disregard for the moral authority of Buddhist leaders, undermining their role in promoting peace and justice. By targeting revered monks, the military aims to intimidate the religious community and stifle any potential dissent that could arise from within. This strategy not only endangers individual lives but also threatens the very foundation of the Buddhist teachings that advocate for compassion, non-violence, and harmony.

There is an extreme irony in a regime that justifies its violence as a way to "protect" Buddhism being the very instrument of its destruction.

The ramifications of such attacks extend beyond the immediate loss of life. The younger generation, particularly novice monks and laypeople, look up to figures like Venerable Muninda Bhivamsa for guidance and inspiration. The assassination of respected monks instills fear and uncertainty among the youth, potentially deterring them from pursuing religious vocations or engaging in social activism rooted in Buddhist principles. Furthermore, the military's actions contribute to a climate of fear and mistrust, eroding the community's cohesion and resilience. The teachings of the Dhamma, which emphasize collective well-being and mutual support, are undermined when violence and repression become the norm.

This cultural and spiritual disintegration poses a long-term threat to the survival of Buddhism as a guiding force in Myanmar.

There have been numerous other examples of the junta's aggression towards the monastic community. Monasteries have been raided, and nuns and monks have been arrested, tortured, or killed. In one incident, the military stormed a monastery in the town of Loikaw, arresting monks and desecrating the sacred space. Another tragic event saw the shelling of a monastery in Shan State, resulting in the deaths of several monks and novices. These acts of violence are clear attempts to break the spirit of the Buddhist community and to control the narrative of resistance.

The assassination of Venerable Bhaddanta Muninda Bhivamsa is a stark reminder of the Myanmar military's ongoing campaign against the country's spiritual and moral pillars. This tragic event highlights the severe danger posed to the future of the Dhamma in Myanmar.