“Dog ‘Aloka’ may have been a monk in previous life” – Ven. Pagnakara Thera

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama   

Vietnamese Buddhist monk Ven. Pagnakara Thera says he believes a dog named ‘Aloka’ may have been a monk in a previous life, speaking at a Dhamma session held yesterday at the Kelaniya Rajamaha Viharaya.   

He suggested that, due to past actions and discipline, the monk may have been reborn as a dog but has now found its way back to a spiritual path.   

“Because of his actions and discipline, maybe he was reborn as a dog. Now the dog has found the path again, and that is why I named it ‘Aloka’, which means ‘light’,” the Thera said.    He expressed hope that the dog would eventually “find the light of wisdom”, be freed from suffering, and attain Nirvana. He added that such experiences may reflect karmic connections from past lives.   

“That is why the dog follows us. There may be some connection from the past. That is why Aloka is on a peace mission, just like the monks,” he said.    The Thera also said that Aloka, originally a stray, began following the group during a journey in India. He noted that the animal was initially afraid of the monks but gradually began to trust them after being fed and cared for.   

He added that the dog has since gained widespread attention and affection.   

“Many people love and care for him. Now he has millions of fans and followers around the world,” he said.   

The Thera further remarked that if even a stray dog can attract such compassion, it reflects the potential for greater understanding and kindness towards all animals.   

He urged the public to protect animals, stressing that they are unable to protect themselves and often become victims of cruelty.