The thesis ʻMARKETING AND ITS EFFECTS ON THE PROPAGATION OF BUDDHISMʼ aims to examine temple activities and their effect on the spread of Buddhism including the need and purpose of these activities. This examination is done through documentary evidence and practical fieldwork by non-participating observations and informal interviews concerning commercial activities organised by five representative temples. The result of the examination is that each temple organise similar activities varying only in emphasis. They concentrate on marketing and cultural rather than proselytising activities which should have been their main purpose. The principal reason for the commercial activities of the temples is to raise funds. Temples are now responsible for their outgoings such as, utilities and repairs, hence the focus on worldly activities for financial reward. However, according to the Dhamma-Vinaya, activities that do not aim for the promulgation of the religion are not appropriate because entry into the monastic order means 'going forth' (from home to the homeless life) in order to achieve the ʻunbindingʼ. The goal of the Sangha should therefore be the study and practice of the Dhamma-Vinaya for the benefit of oneself and of others. The spread of Buddhism would be more effective if the Sangha would strictly adhere to the Vinaya, deeply imbibe in the doctrine and rigorously follow the practice. Marketing efforts would be unnecessary because followers would have confidence and readily support these Sangha members.
