On the future of Buddhism in Burma
Nway presents a critical view of Buddhism in Burma in his recent interview, recognizing its historical role as a source of strength and moral guidance. He highlights the pivotal role that monks played during the Saffron Revolution in 2007, when they actively protested against military rule. However, he expresses concern about the current state of Buddhism, noting that some monks have aligned themselves with the military regime, which undermines the core values of compassion and justice inherent in the faith. His own experience with Vipassana meditation emphasizes the importance of inner strength and resilience, which he believes are essential for facing the harsh realities imposed by the military. Despite the traditional emphasis on peace and non-violence within Buddhism, he points out the growing skepticism among the populace, as many feel that some religious leaders prioritize personal gain over the welfare of the people. Nway views the future of Buddhism in Burma as precarious. He calls for a return to the fundamental principles of the faith, urging practitioners to engage actively in the fight for justice and democracy while remaining true to the core values of respect and compassion.
“My mother asked to me to practice meditation and she follows the Thae Inn Gu sayardaw. The benefit I got from meditation is calmness.”
“I do not think the future of Buddhism will be very positive in Burma. Although I am not superstitious nor religious, I believe in the power of meditation. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi also encourages young people to practice meditating because meditation can help us tolerate suffering. Right now, after the 2021 military coup, I want to believe in religion and many people do not want to practice meditation. In central Yangon, at Shwedagon pagoda, there are people hitting metal pots to show that we dislike the military. Before the coup, I believe in the importance of the rule of law in Burmese society and many people abide by the rule of law. In addition, the western countries and the Civil Society Organization also reminds us the benefit of the rule of law. However, once the coup happened, many people’s lives and homes were destroyed. This immediately makes us question the practicality and existence of the rule of law in Myanmar – ‘what about the rule of law? Why do we try to get support from the international community?’ The international community likes to advise us to always take the religious stance and continue with peaceful resistance in the form of non-violence. Meanwhile, the military is killing us and setting our houses and properties on fire, and yet, nobody has come to help us. Do we still have to follow the rule of law? or do we have to prioritize peace? The solution is very simple – kill them or be killed by them.
On to the second point in your question about the role of monks and religious people in the democratic struggle in Myanmar, there are two kinds of monks influencing the movement. The first one is the monks who commit their life for the sake of the people of Myanmar. For instance, a man called Min Thon Nya in Buddha university is actively participating in the revolution. Although it is true that the 2007 Saffron revolution was led by the monks, it is crucial to know that not all religious people work with the people of Myanmar. There are some people who commit their life to work for the people while some people do things for their own interest only. If you look at Sitagu sayardaw, he supports and stands with the military. Because of him, how can people believe and trust in religious people to save us? The lesson taught by religion is to be peaceful. During arguments between two people, peace can only happen if both sides want peace. The point is that the other side of the fight, the military, does not want peace.
I also have a personal relationship with Buddhism, though, or more specifically, Buddhist meditation. My mother asked to me to practice meditation and she follows the Thae Inn Gu sayardaw. The benefit I got from meditation is calmness. Whenever I get arrested, I am able to face the military without too much excitement, and sometimes even with mental stability! For me, when I got arrested around 2009 and sent to prison, I was able to answer their questions without being too excited. At the second time I got arrested around 2000, I was able to answer their questions properly again and so I was released. This time in April, I got arrested again at 9am and at around 6pm, I was released because I answered all the questions they asked. They must have thought I am someone who is frustrated with the politics so they did not suspect me to be dangerous for them. So, I will say that the benefit of meditation for me is the calm I feel.”