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| Saturday, 13 December 2003 |
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A study in symbolism "Ape Jatika Kodiye Sinha Nadaya" (A Sinhala book on the symbolism of the national or the lion flag) Author Damayanthi Jayakody Published by Dayawansa Jayakody and Co. With the success of her first book titled 'Ape Budu Hamuduruwo (our Buddha)' and translated into English as The Jewel of Universe, author Damayanthi Jayakody has attempted to make a study of the 'lion flag' or the Sinha Kodiya taking into account all the symbolic representation. If I remember correct a similar pioneer study was done by the most reverenced late Ven. Madihe Pannasiha in his book titled 'Dutugemunu Maha Rajatuma (1987)'. Therein he stated that the originator of the lion flag was King Dutugemunu, but was developed later. The symbolic representation the King would have suggested according to the late scholar monk was to show that the lion represents the Sinhala nation and the four bo leaves on the four corners represent that the nation at large is a Buddhist land. Furthermore, the sword on the right fore paw represents that the nation is free. These ideas a re more or less expanded in the book authored by Mrs. Jayakody. But the reader comes across an admixture of both Buddhist doctrine and symbolism of the lion flag interspersed. The central point that she wishes to drive in is that the 'lion flag' is just not another flag which represents a nation, but a flag with a mission to the whole world.She cites that the lion symbol is used in various places, mainly at the entrance to a sacred or historic place, and it is also used in the throne and named 'sinhasana' (the seat of the lion). The Sinhala artist had manifold functions with the lion image, and according to the author the symbolic effect of lion in the centre of the flag represents quite a number of factors such as the protection to the entire nation, heroism, wisdom, discipline and strength. The author says that lion represents vigilance in all its entirety. In a close examination one sees three of the teeth of the lion in his mouth, which is a representation of the good actions of body, mind and word, as the mind gets purified with the eradication of desire, foolishness and craving comes to a close as taught in Buddhist doctrine. There are three majestic locks of curly hairly haloes on the chin of the lion, indicative of the truthfulness, and further twenty in number situated on the neck. These are symbolic of the ten meritorious deeds or dasa kusal and the ten perfection of dasa paramita needed for a person to achieve the highest state of sanctity. These symbolic forms pave the way for the author to commence a discussion on the Buddhist doctrine. This two fold formula of taking into account of the symbolic signs of the lion and its doctrinal discipline is continued further. They are mostly the symbolism of numerals or numbers. For instance, there appears three locks of hair on the head of the lion which is symbolic of seela or morality, samadhi or concentration and pragna or wisdom. Similarly, the author mentions of three rows of hair closely knitted near the eyes of the lion. They are symbolic of Dana or generosity. Seela or morality, and Bhavana or meditation. This symbolic concept is seen merged once again into a dhamma discussion, where the focus of attention is the need to interpret the laid down symbolism to one's behaviourial patterns. The author makes good use of this symbolism to exhibit her knowledge in Buddhist texts and its usage. For instance, the lion in the flag stands on three legs, which to the author is the existence and the application of Thilakshana or Ancca, Dukkha, Anatta. The book runs to one long chapter like a research monograph sans footnotes, and packed with illustrative colourful pictures. In conclusion, the author gives a number of references to great kings of the nation and their fruitful actions. These initial insights into the symbolic study of the flag could well be considered as a rare feature in the understanding of the national conscience, and as such author Mrs. Jayakody should be taken seriously for imparting these interpretations, as a study in symbolism. - Prof. Sunanda Mahendra |
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