Saffron Uprising

The Saffron Uprising: The Cries of the Monks

The emergence of “The Spiritual and Glorious Revolution” last September 2007 has changed Burma’s history forever and placed Buddhist monks and nuns quite literally in the front ranks of peaceful resistance to Burma’s brutal and illegitimate dictatorship. Our spiritual message is to bring about a clear, more compassionate way and more harmonious relationship within all aspects of life in the country.

For Buddhist monks and nuns, turning their begging bowls upside down indicates their refusal to accept alms from the ruthless rulers and their servants. This follows a tradition established in the time of the Buddha by which monastic law allows monks to rebuke those who behave against “Dharma” (Buddhist Law).

In Burma’s Buddhist society, monks are highly respected, because they are disciples of Buddha who taught universal loving kindness, wisdom, peace and compassion. But we monks are facing many challenges at this critical moment in history.

Thousands of Buddhist monks and nuns who were praying for peace were brutally attacked on the streets of Rangoon and other cities in September 2007. Burma’s regime committed these atrocities in full view of the world. They are shameless, seeking only to systematically tyrannize Burma’s peoples for decades to come.

Today thousands of people, including many Buddhist monks and nuns are suffering severe treatment in the interrogation centers, force labor camps and prisons. Millions have risked their safety and their lives in order to change the country.

Following the September 2007 crackdown on thousands of monks, we founded the International Burmese Monks Organization (IBMO) in October 2007. Led by renowned Burmese monks Venerable U Kovida and Venerable Pannya Vamsa, IBMO helps to give voice to the brave people and monks who have been silenced. Dedicated to peace and freedom in Burma, IBMO is relaying this urgent message to world leaders, and the global community.

The promises of Burma’s profound spiritual revolution, the Saffron Revolution, remain unchanged. Monks are crying out to the world, telling all who will hear about the disappearance of the most fundamental rights under this regime, including the right to protest and the right to freedom of faith.

We express our profound admiration for our fellow monks and the people of Burma who have suffered unspeakable hardships, repression, and detention but have not wavered in their determination for freedom in their country and in their own hearts. We will work peacefully and tirelessly for our people’s freedoms and to end their needles suffering.

And, we are deeply grateful for your support.