Myanmar’s Earthquake of 2025 - A Call for Global Restoration

A Buddhist monastery in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, now lies in ruins after a structural collapse. [AP Photo]

Introduction

On March 28, 2025, a powerful earthquake struck Southeast Asia, causing widespread devastation, particularly in Myanmar and Thailand. The tremors, felt across vast regions, inflicted severe damage, with Myanmar bearing the greatest destruction. Reports indicate that more than 2,000 temples and monasteries have been damaged, deeply affecting both the people of Myanmar and the global Buddhist community.

The earthquake, with an estimated magnitude of 7.7 on the Richter scale, struck Mandalay, Myanmar, causing intense ground shaking, landslides, and structural collapses across multiple regions. Many ancient temples, some dating back over a thousand years, have suffered irreparable damage. Entire villages were leveled, and countless families were displaced. As of now, over 3,000 lives have been lost, 4,571 people are injured, and 441 remain missing. These numbers are expected to rise as rescue teams continue searching for survivors trapped beneath the rubble.

In addition to the immediate humanitarian crisis, the earthquake has disrupted transportation networks, making relief efforts more challenging. Key roads and bridges have been destroyed, leaving many remote areas inaccessible. Emergency response teams, including international aid organizations, have mobilized to provide food, water, medical assistance, and temporary shelters.

This catastrophe has moved millions worldwide, prompting an outpouring of solidarity and support to aid in the aftermath. Religious organizations, governments, and humanitarian groups have launched fundraising campaigns to assist in relief efforts. The global Buddhist community, deeply affected by the destruction of Myanmar’s sacred sites, has begun organizing restoration projects to rebuild and preserve the country’s invaluable spiritual heritage.

A Timeless Center of Theravāda Buddhism

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, holds a profound place in the history of Buddhism, serving as a beacon of Theravāda tradition for centuries. With its rich spiritual heritage, Myanmar is home to countless temples, pagodas, and monasteries, where Buddhist teachings have been preserved and practiced with deep devotion. The golden spires of Shwedagon Pagoda, the serene landscapes of Bagan, and the monastic communities of Mandalay have long symbolized the nation’s unwavering commitment to Buddhism.

The Mahāvaṁsa, the ancient chronicle of Sri Lanka, records the sacred bonds between Myanmar and other Buddhist nations, particularly Sri Lanka. According to historical accounts, the spread of Theravāda Buddhism across Southeast Asia was deeply influenced by monastic exchanges and royal patronage. Just as Emperor Ashoka sent Arahat Mahinda to Sri Lanka to establish the Buddhist monastic order, later centuries saw Myanmar playing a similar role in reinvigorating the Sangha (monastic order) abroad.

Cultural heritage shattered: the remains of a temple in Myanmar after the earthquake [Reuters]

Myanmar has contributed immensely to preserving Buddhist scriptures, promoting the study of the Tipiṭaka, and ensuring the continuity of monastic discipline. The country has also served as a spiritual refuge, hosting monks and scholars from other regions seeking higher ordination (Upasampadā) and advanced training in the Vinaya (monastic code). This historical exchange strengthened the Buddhist lineage in Sri Lanka, Thailand, and beyond, allowing Theravāda Buddhism to flourish across the region. The monastic universities of Myanmar, such as the renowned Sitagu International Buddhist Academy and the State Pariyatti Sasana University, have played an instrumental role in maintaining and transmitting the authentic teachings of the Buddha.

Beyond scriptural studies, Myanmar has been home to some of the most influential meditation traditions, such as the Vipassana movement pioneered by teachers like Sayagyi U Ba Khin and Mahasi Sayadaw. These meditation techniques, rooted in the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta (The Foundations of Mindfulness), have spread globally, influencing millions of practitioners in both monastic and lay communities. Meditation centers across Myanmar have welcomed seekers from all corners of the world, solidifying its place as a spiritual sanctuary for those pursuing enlightenment.

The earthquake's impact left pagodas in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, severely damaged [AP Photo]

Buddhism in Myanmar

From Ancient Origins to King Ashoka Buddhism’s connection with Myanmar traces back to early Buddhist history. Ancient texts suggest that the teachings of the Buddha reached Myanmar through merchant brothers Tapussa and Bhallika, who received sacred relics from the Buddha himself. These relics, believed to be strands of the Buddha’s hair, were enshrined in what later became one of Myanmar’s most revered sites, the Shwedagon Pagoda. Over the centuries, Buddhism flourished, shaping Myanmar’s spiritual and cultural identity.

One of the most influential figures in spreading Buddhism to Myanmar was Emperor Ashoka of India. In the 3rd century BCE, Ashoka, after embracing Buddhism, sent dhamma emissaries to various regions, including Suvarnabhumi, which is believed to have included parts of present-day Myanmar and Thailand. Among these emissaries were Arahat Sona and Uttara Theras, who played a pivotal role in the propagation of Theravāda Buddhism in Myanmar. These missions played a crucial role in the establishment of Buddhist monastic traditions, leading to the emergence of a strong Theravāda Buddhist community in Myanmar. These efforts strengthened the foundation of Theravāda Buddhism, which remains a defining element of Myanmar’s cultural and religious heritage.

Throughout history, Myanmar continued to serve as a center for Buddhist scholarship and practice, influencing the development of Theravāda Buddhism in neighboring countries, including Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Laos. The patronage of Burmese kings, who actively supported Buddhist monastic institutions, helped sustain and propagate Buddhist teachings across generations. During the reigns of monarchs such as King Anawrahta (11th century) of the Pagan Empire and King Alaungpaya (18th century), Myanmar witnessed significant monastic reforms, the proliferation of Buddhist literature, and the construction of monumental religious structures.

Monastic institutions in Myanmar have remained essential in fostering Buddhist education and preserving traditional teachings. Institutions like the Mahagandayon Monastery in Amarapura continue to be renowned centers for monastic training, where thousands of monks dedicate themselves to a life of discipline and meditation. These monastic universities serve as bridges connecting ancient Buddhist wisdom with contemporary practice, ensuring that the teachings of the Buddha remain relevant in today’s world.

In times of political and religious challenges, Myanmar has remained a pillar of Buddhist resilience, ensuring that the sacred traditions passed down from the time of the Buddha continue to inspire millions worldwide. The recent earthquake has shaken not only its physical monuments but also the spiritual heart of Theravāda Buddhism. The sight of crumbled stupas and damaged monasteries serves as a stark reminder of impermanence, a core teaching in Buddhism. However, just as Myanmar played a role in preserving Buddhist heritage for centuries, the world now has a collective responsibility to support its restoration and revival. By aiding in the reconstruction of these sacred sites and supporting displaced monks and nuns, we contribute to the continuity of a spiritual legacy that has shaped civilizations for over two millennia.

Earthquake damage: the collapsed Maha Myat Muni Buddhist pagoda in Mandalay, Myanmar. [EPA]

Earthquake damage to a pagoda in Mandalay, Myanmar [AFP]

Historical Ties Between Myanmar and Sri Lanka

The connection between Myanmar and Sri Lanka has been deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions. Both nations have played a vital role in the preservation and propagation of Theravāda Buddhism, fostering centuries-old ties that have strengthened their spiritual and cultural bonds. For centuries, the two nations have engaged in cultural and religious exchanges, strengthening their shared Buddhist heritage.

One of the most profound ties between Myanmar and Sri Lanka was the formation of the Amarapura Nikaya, a significant Buddhist monastic order.
In the early 19th century, Sri Lankan monks, concerned about maintaining monastic discipline, sought assistance from Myanmar’s well-established Buddhist order. At the time, the higher ordination (Upasampadā) lineage in Sri Lanka had weakened, and many monks desired to restore the purity of their monastic traditions.

In the aftermath of the early Friday earthquake, a Buddhist monk walks past a damaged building at a monastery compound in Naypyitaw, Myanmar [AP Photo]

Under the guidance of Ven. Gnanavimalatissa Thero, Sri Lankan monks traveled to Myanmar and received proper ordination from the respected Burmese monastic community, known for its strict adherence to Vinaya (monastic discipline). Upon returning to Sri Lanka in 1802, they established the Amarapura Nikaya, named after the then-capital of Myanmar, Amarapura.

This event marked a crucial turning point in Sri Lankan Buddhist history, as it not only revived the monastic order but also re-established a strong foundation for Buddhist education and practice. The Burmese monks not only provided ordination but also shared scriptural knowledge, meditation techniques, and ethical guidelines, enriching the Sri Lankan Buddhist tradition. This revival of monastic practices contributed to the preservation and flourishing of Theravāda Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Even today, the relationship between Myanmar and Sri Lanka remains strong, with monks and scholars from both countries continuing to engage in religious exchanges, academic discussions, and meditation training. These historical ties serve as a testament to the enduring brotherhood between the two Theravāda Buddhist nations.

The Present Situation in Myanmar

The aftermath of the recent earthquake in Myanmar has left widespread destruction across the country, with many regions facing severe challenges. Numerous historical landmarks, including temples and cultural sites, have been severely damaged or destroyed. Entire villages have been flattened, and countless people have been displaced from their homes. Relief operations are ongoing, but the scale of the damage has put immense strain on local resources. Hospitals are overburdened, and basic services remain disrupted. Government agencies, international aid organizations, and local communities are working tirelessly to provide immediate assistance, though the path to recovery will require significant support from the global community. The rebuilding process will not only address physical infrastructure but also offer an opportunity to restore hope and resilience among the people of Myanmar.

The loss of these sacred Buddhist sites has deeply impacted monks, devotees, and cultural historians worldwide. These temples, which once stood as symbols of faith and heritage, now remind us of the impermanence of all things.

However, this moment of loss also presents an opportunity for global unity. Just as Myanmar has historically contributed to the preservation of Buddhism, it is now time for the world to come together and support Myanmar’s efforts to restore these sacred places.

Under a tragic fate: a Buddhist monk walks through the ruins of a collapsed pagoda in Mandalay, central Myanmar, following the earthquake [AP Photo]

The Science Behind the Earthquake

An earthquake is a natural geological phenomenon that results from the sudden release of energy within the Earth’s crust. In Myanmar, a recent earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale released an enormous amount of energy, causing significant destruction across the region. Seismologists have confirmed that this seismic event was powerful enough to damage roads, bridges, and countless buildings, leaving a lasting impact on both the infrastructure and the lives of the affected populations.

Myanmar sits along the Sagaing Fault, a highly active geological fault line known for frequent seismic activity. This makes the country particularly vulnerable to earthquakes, as the tectonic plates beneath the Earth's surface shift and release energy in the form of seismic waves. These waves travel through the Earth, causing the ground to shake, which can result in catastrophic damage to both urban and rural areas.

In terms of energy, the magnitude of an earthquake is measured on the Richter scale, and the higher the number, the more energy is released. For instance, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake, such as the one that recently struck Myanmar, can release energy equivalent to thousands of atomic bombs. The results can be devastating, leading to ground fractures, landslides, and widespread destruction of infrastructure, as well as a considerable loss of life.

Unlike atomic power, which is a controlled form of energy harnessed for specific purposes like electricity generation, an earthquake’s energy is released spontaneously, without any forewarning. Scientists use monitoring tools to study seismic activity and make predictions about potential earthquake-prone areas. However, the exact timing, location, and magnitude of an earthquake are impossible to predict with certainty, making it one of nature's most unpredictable forces.

Given the unpredictable nature of earthquakes, experts emphasize the importance of enhanced disaster preparedness. Stronger building structures, improved infrastructure, and better early warning systems are essential in mitigating the impact of earthquakes. Preparedness also involves educating the public on how to respond during and after an earthquake, which can significantly reduce the loss of life and property damage.

Myanmar’s recent earthquake highlights the urgent need for stronger disaster management systems. It also serves as a reminder of the immense power of the Earth’s natural forces and the importance of understanding the science behind earthquakes in order to better protect vulnerable communities and prevent future destruction.

The Buddha’s teachings offer profound wisdom, particularly when he speaks of:

"Sabbe sankara anicchathi, Sabbe sankara dukkha, Sabbe sankara anatta, Nirvana parama sukha."

This translates to:

"All conditioned things are impermanent, All conditioned things are suffering, All conditioned things are without self, Nirvana is the highest happiness."

Supporting Myanmar’s Cultural and Spiritual Restoration

Where prayers once echoed, now only the stillness of destruction: a damaged pagoda in Amarapura, Mandalay, after the earthquake. [AP Photo]

This essential teaching reminds us that everything in life, whether living or non-living, is subject to change and eventual dissolution. No matter how enduring a structure may seem, or how deeply rooted a tradition is, all things will eventually pass away. The recent devastation caused by the earthquake in Myanmar serves as a powerful reminder of this truth, as we witness the destruction of sacred temples, ancient landmarks, and the lives of countless individuals who once thrived in those communities.

This tragic event offers us an invaluable opportunity for deep reflection. We are reminded that the material world is transient, and as such, we are urged to cultivate mindfulness and seek a greater understanding of the nature of existence. In times of loss, it is crucial to pause and reflect on the impermanence that surrounds us, recognizing that nothing remains unchanged. Through this awareness, we are encouraged to seek the realization of Nibbana — the ultimate goal of peace and liberation in Buddhism.

As Buddhists, it is our shared responsibility to come together and act in support of those affected by this disaster. It is imperative that all Buddhists, regardless of where they are in the world, unite in compassion and collective action to help reconstruct what has been lost. This is not only an opportunity for us to show our solidarity, but also a vital reminder of our deep connection to one another as a global community. The restoration of sacred sites, temples, and homes is an essential task that requires the dedication of every Buddhist, and it is an act of great importance for the preservation of our heritage and the relief of those suffering.

I respectfully urge all Buddhists, both individually and through their respective communities, to lend their support in whatever way possible — whether through donations, volunteer work, or other forms of assistance. Together, we can help rebuild these vital structures, restore hope, and ensure that the teachings of the Buddha continue to flourish, even amidst such overwhelming adversity.

In embracing the impermanence of life, we can find the strength to rise above adversity and build a future that honors both the resilience of the human spirit and the eternal wisdom of the Buddha's teachings. Let us unite in this noble cause, as one global Buddhist community, and help Myanmar rise again stronger and more resilient than ever before.

~ Prof. J.S.K. Jayasekara ~