Translating Myanmar’s Nissaya into English and Vietnamese

Myanmar’s foundation of Dhamma studies and practice is renowned for its profound Buddhist translations, commentaries, and meditation practices. A key reference shaping Myanmar’s Dhamma study system is the Nissaya texts, which provide detailed explanations of each sentence and word in the Pāḷi Canon using insights from commentaries and sub-commentaries. Those seeking to deeply understand the Dhamma teachings in Myanmar must memorize these Nissaya texts. This traditional method, while somewhat rigid, preserves the original values of the Dhamma, ensuring its integrity and preventing arbitrary interpretations. The translation of Nissaya by Bhikkhu Tikkhañāṇa and his associates, initiated in early 2024, has shown promising results, helping learners gain a deep understanding of Pāḷi and the meanings of ancient texts. This project also serves as a foundation for standardizing Dhamma studies in English and Vietnamese, ensuring accurate and reliable learning of the Tipiṭaka.