2,045 Buddhists Read Tipitaka at Borobudur, Don't Stop on the Pronunciation

MAGELANG - A total of 2,045 Buddhists from Indonesia and a number of countries have participated in the Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting 2026 at Lumbini Park, Borobudur Temple area, Magelang, Central Java. This activity is directed so that the reading of the holy book does not stop at pronunciation, but enters into the way of thinking and daily actions.

Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting was held by the Sangha Theravada Indonesia together with the Indonesian Theravada Buddhist Family. The participants consisted of monks from various countries, samanera, atthasilani, as well as upasaka and upasika who practice Atthasila.

Director General of Buddhist Community Guidance at the Ministry of Religion, Supriyadi, said that reading the holy book must be followed by an understanding of the values contained therein.

"Physical development that is visible in front of the eyes will be fragile if it is not supported by good character. Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting is an effort to build the identity of Indonesian Buddhists," said Supriyadi at the opening, Friday (24/7/2026) as quoted from the official statement of the Ministry of Religion.

According to Supriyadi, religious and state life do not need to be separated. The value of religion, said Supriyadi, should actually be seen in the attitude of being a responsible citizen.

He also assessed that a deep understanding of religion should expand love and respect for different groups.

"The deeper a person understands his religion, the wider his sense of compassion and respect for those who are different," he said.

The Chairman of the Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting 2026 Committee, Bhante Guttadhammo Mahāthera, emphasized that the chanting of the Tipitaka is not merely a religious tradition. The activity is also a means of deepening understanding and practicing the teachings of Buddhism.

"After reading it, hopefully it can be thought about and change the way of thinking and acting. The Tipitaka must be a benchmark and practice in daily life," said Bhante Guttadhammo.

Indonesia Tipitaka Chanting this year is the 11th event. The activity has the theme "Menapaki Jalan Mulia, Bersumbangsih bagi Negeri".

The series of events will be closed with the celebration of Asadha Mahapuja in the courtyard of Borobudur Temple on July 26, 2026. The celebration commemorates the first sermon of Sammasambuddha Gotama to five ascetics, which was the beginning of the spread of Dhamma.