Maha Nayaka Theras Step In Push for Peace in the Thai–Cambodian Temple Tussle

When politicians bicker, monks remind them of the bigger picture. That’s exactly what Sri Lanka’s four Maha Nayaka Theras have done, stepping into the simmering row between Thailand and Cambodia over the ownership of an ancient temple.

On Saturday, Venerable Omalpe Sobitha Thera carried a special letter to Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath – not just his words, but the collective voice of the country’s most senior monks:

Most Ven. Tibbotuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Thera (Malwatta Chapter)

Most Ven. Warakagoda Dharmasiddhi Sri Gnanarathana Thera (Asgiriya Chapter)

Most Ven. Makulewe Sri Wimala Thera (Ramanna Sect)

Most Ven. Karagoda Uyangoda Maithri Murthi Thera (Amarapura Sect)

Their message? Simple but firm: don’t drag Buddhism into border battles.

The monks expressed deep concern that a religious site has become the centre of a nationalist tug-of-war. In their letter, they urged both governments – and their respective Sanghas – to step back, breathe, and remember that Buddhism’s heritage is one of peace, not provocation.

“As followers of the Buddha, it is our bounden duty to ensure his teachings of peace and non-violence are maintained,” the letter reminded, gently scolding anyone tempted to weaponise faith.

The quiet gossip in Colombo’s religious circles is that the Theras’ joint appeal is more than symbolic. History has shown that Buddhist leaders in the region often succeed where politicians stumble – calming tensions and guiding communities back from the brink.

By placing their weight behind harmony, the Maha Nayaka Theras have signalled that Sri Lanka won’t sit silently while two of Buddhism’s great centres quarrel. Their intervention, cloaked in respectful words, is a subtle but powerful reminder: monks may not command armies, but they can still shape peace.