අනුරාධපුර යුගයේ විහාරාරාම ආශ්‍රිත ව පැවති සම්භාව්‍ය අධ්‍යාපන ක්‍රියාවලියෙහි ස්වරූපය පිළිබඳ විමසුමක් [An Investigation on the Nature of the Classical Education Process in Anuradhaura Era Associated with Monasteries]

Monastery education played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of ancient Sri Lanka. This research paper explores the rich tapestry of educational practices within monastic institutions, focusing on their profound impact on societal development and the preservation of knowledge. Rooted in Theravada Buddhism, monasteries served as centers of learning, nurturing a holistic approach to education that encompassed religious teachings, philosophy, literature, and various religious and social practical skills. The monastic education system in ancient Sri Lanka was characterized by a rigorous curriculum, with an emphasis on memorization, oral transmission, documentation and critical thinking. Monks, revered as scholars and educators, played a dual role as spiritual guides and custodians of knowledge. The monastic universities, such as Mahavihara and Abhayagiri, attracted scholars from across the Indian subcontinent, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and contributing to the dissemination of diverse intellectual traditions. Moreover, monastery education played a crucial role in the preservation of ancient texts, including the Pali Canon and commentaries, ensuring the continuity of Sri Lanka's cultural and religious heritage. The impact of monastery education extended beyond religious boundaries, influencing art, literature, and governance. By examining the dynamic interplay between monastic education and societal evolution, this abstract seeks to illuminate the profound and lasting legacy of ancient Sri Lanka's monastery-based educational system.