thagðir

Thagir, also spelled Thagiri, are a group of Buddhist monks who lived in Sri Lanka during the 5th and 6th centuries CE. They are known for their contributions to the Theravada Buddhist tradition, particularly in the areas of monastic discipline and the preservation of Buddhist texts. The term "Thagir" is derived from the Pali word "thagiri," which means "elder monks."

The Thagir tradition emerged as a response to the decline of the original Buddhist monastic order in Sri Lanka, which had been established by the Buddha himself. The Thagir monks were known for their strict adherence to the Vinaya, the rules governing monastic life, and their commitment to the preservation of the Buddhist canon. They played a crucial role in the development of the Theravada tradition, which is now the dominant form of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.

The Thagir monks are also known for their literary contributions. They compiled and edited the Pali Canon, the collection of Buddhist texts that forms the basis of Theravada Buddhism. Their work helped to standardize and preserve the Buddhist teachings, ensuring their continuity over the centuries.

The Thagir tradition is an important part of Sri Lankan Buddhist history and culture. Their contributions to the Theravada tradition have had a lasting impact on the practice of Buddhism in the region. Today, the Thagir monks continue to play a significant role in the preservation and promotion of Buddhist teachings in Sri Lanka.