A Buddhist Reflection on Peace: Contribution to the Vatican’s Pro Dialogo

The Oxford Buddhist Society is pleased to share the publication of Ven. Wadigala Samitharathana’s article, “Scriptural and Religious Reflections on Prayer for Peace: A Buddhist Perspective,” in Pro Dialogo 182 (2026/1), published by the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue of the Holy See (Vatican).

The article appears in the special issue “World Day of Prayer for Peace: Four Decades of a Shared Journey (1986–2026)”, commemorating forty years since the historic interreligious gathering for peace held in Assisi in 1986. Drawing upon the Pāli Canon and the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, Ven. Samitharathana reflects on meditation, mental tranquillity, and liberation, exploring the important relationship between inner peace and peace within the wider world.

The article highlights the Buddhist understanding that lasting peace is closely connected with the cultivation of the mind. Through the development of calm, awareness, compassion, and wisdom, individuals can contribute to more peaceful and harmonious relationships beyond religious, cultural, and social boundaries.

Read the Full Publication

The complete issue of Pro Dialogo 182 (2026/1) can be accessed through the Oxford Buddhist Society website:

View the full publication – Pro Dialogo 182 (2026/1)

Bibliographical Reference

Samitharathana, Wadigala. “Scriptural and Religious Reflections on Prayer for Peace: A Buddhist Perspective.” Pro Dialogo 182 (LXI), 2026/1, pp. 43–52. Vatican City: Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, Holy See.