BUDDHISM IN THE SOCIAL MEDIA WORLD: THE INTERPRETATION OF BUDDHIST SCRIPTURES IN THE DIGITAL AGE

Abstract

This article explores the changes in the interpretation of Buddhist teachings in the digital age, analyzing both the risks and opportunities that arise from disseminating Buddhism through social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. The interpretation and propagation of Buddhist teachings on these platforms are often brief and condensed, which may lead to distortion or miscommunication of the original doctrines. While social media allows for easier and broader access to Dharma content, it also presents the challenge of ensuring that the core essence of the teachings is not distorted. The article compares the traditional methods of disseminating Buddhism, which emphasized oral transmission, memorization, and learning from teachers, with the modern digital approach that primarily relies on online media. This shift makes it easier for younger generations to access the teachings, but it also poses the risk that interpretations may be incomplete or miscommunicated. In the digital era, interpreting Buddhist teachings requires in-depth knowledge and analysis to align with the current context while preserving the original principles. The article highlights the need to adapt the dissemination of religious teachings to suit the digital age, while still maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the original teachings.