Vesak Series III: Perfections (Paramitha)

The third series of the 2006 Vesak stamps depicts how the Buddha in his numerous births developed the qualities necessary to attain Buddh- -ahood. As a Bodhisatva, he worked hard on achieving these perfections, which are depicted through a series of Jataka stories vividly featured in temple murals. The wall paintings are typical of the 19th century style.

The Perfection of Generosity (Daana Paaramita) which helps to restrain from being selfish and develop selflessness, is depicted (top left stamp) through a scene from the Vessantara Jataka where the Bodhisatva gave his wealth and cherished possessions as well as his kingdom, his limbs, his children and his wife. He was even willing to sacrifice his own life if such sacrifice was going to benefit humanity. The stamp carries a mural from Bodhiraja Vihara, Eluvapitiya.

Wisdom (panna) is the apex of Buddhism and is described as the right understanding of the nature of the world in the light of all conditioned things being transient (anicca), sorrowful (dukka) and souless (anaatma). This perfection is depicted through the Paduma Jataka illustrated in a rock painting at Kaballalena Vihara. (Top right stamp).

A wall painting at the Degaldoruwa temple illustrates the Perfection of Renunciation (Nekkahamma Paaramita). The selected tale is the Sutasoma Jataka (second row left). This perfection implies renunciation of worldly pleasures by adopting an ascetic's life. As is seen in the painting, the Bodhisatva realising the futility of fleeting material pleasures voluntarily leaves the earthly possessions and lead towards a life of absolute purity.

Sivi Jataka depicted in a wall painting at the Paramaakanda Vihara, Anamaduwa (second row right) illustrates the Perfection of Equanimity (Upekkha Paaramita). Equanimity means discerning rightly, looking impartially without attachment or aversion, without favour or disfavour. Slights and insults such as praise and blame, loss and gain, pain and happiness are our common experiences. Amidst the trials and tribulations of life, the Bodhisatva attempts to stand unmoved, as firm as a rock, exercising perfect equanimity.

The Perfection of Loving Kindness (Metta Paaramita) is the subject of the last stamp. A wall painting at the Sunandaarama, Ambalangoda depicts the Sachchakira Jataka where the Bodhisatva practises the quality of boundless goodwill towards all beings irrespective of their differences. It has been proved in the Bodhisatva life that a pure heart that radiates the beneficent force of loving kindness is capable of transforming wild beasts into tame ones, murderers into saints.

The stamps are of the denomination of Rs 4.50. Each one carries a sketch of the temple where the relevant painting can be seen.