• Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presented PM Narendra Modi with ‘World Tipitaka’ in Pali at Government House in Bangkok on April 3.

• PM Modi received 108 volumes of Tipitaka, the revered collection of Buddhist scriptures, in Pali language.

• The Tipitaka is a compilation of Lord Buddha’s teachings with accurate pronunciation of the Pali Tipitaka’s over nine million syllables. 

• The scripture was brought out by the Thai government in 2016 to commemorate King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit of Thailand’s 70-year reign.

• The Thai government has presented it as a “Gift of Peace and Wisdom for All” from the Kingdom of Thailand to more than 30 countries.

• Recognised recently as a Classical Language by the government of India, Pali highlights its literary significance within Buddhism and Jainism. 

• It is believed that this ancient language, shaped from various dialects, served as the vehicle for delivering Lord Buddha’s teachings around 500 BC, ensuring that his insights could resonate through time.

• The entire body of Buddhist canonical literature is written in Pali, with the Tipitaka or ‘Threefold Basket’ being its most notable collection. 

• This includes the ‘Vinaya Pitaka’ — which outlines ethical monastic rules, the ‘Sutta Pitaka’ — a rich compilation of the Buddha's discourses, and the  ‘Abhidhamma Pitaka’ — which delves into ethics, psychology, and the intricate analysis of mind and reality.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)