How and why stupas were built?

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Answer

1.Sacred place of Buddhism is called as stupa.
2. Anand the favourite disciple of Buddha requested him what they would have to do with his dead body.
3.Buddha said they would have to buried his dead body at the cross road and construct a stupa there, people passing through the road would pray and get his blessings .So, stupa were made.
4.Ashok had made the stupa at Sanchi , Saranath and Bharhut .
5.King, people believed in Buddhism , guild and bhikkush and bhikkunis contributed fonds for the construction of stupa.
6.Stupa is a semi circular earthern mound which was called as Anda.
7.Over the Andal , there is a square like structure , called as Hermika.
8.At the central place of Hermica , there is a umbrella like structure called as Yasthi.
9.Around the stupa , there is a circular path which separated the religious structure and the secular structure.
10.In four cardinal point, there were four gateways.The gateways were very decorative .The gateway were link with rellings .
11.On the rellings (the remaining stupa) the Jatak stories of Buddha was carved.
12.People entered in to the stupa in eastern gateway and go round it in a clock wise direction.
13.Stupa was also built on the relies of Buddha.

Answer

The Stupa represents Dharmakaya or Buddha's holy mind. Each part of the Stupa shows us the path to Enlightenment. Building as Stupa is a powerful way to get rid of negative karma and accumalate a lot of merit.

First a site is chosen for building a Stupa. Then prayers are offered to the earth deities. The Stupa is built on a square base, the Lion's Seat. Its four sides are related to the four qualities of the mind which are basic for the attainment of enlightenment. They are - love, compassion, joy and equanimity. Five steps are built on this base. They represent the progress of the mind towards enlightenment.

A rounded form is built on the steps and is called the Bumpa. This may have a meditation room or contain some relics. The Sog Shing which means a Life Stick made of sandalwood or juniper is put up as the central axis. It extends from the Lion Seat and protrudes to the Stupa's highest point.

The reasons for building stupas after Buddha Shakyamuni passed away are -

1. To commemorate the eight great deeds accomplished by him during his life.

2. To enshrine the relics.

Answer

How and Why Stupas were Built

Stupas, also known as pagodas, are sacred structures that are an integral part of Buddhist architecture. They were built as religious monuments to house relics of the Buddha or other important Buddhist figures. The construction of stupas served both practical and symbolic purposes, and they continue to hold great significance in Buddhist culture.

Symbolism and Significance of Stupas
Stupas are revered as symbols of enlightenment and serve as reminders of the Buddha's teachings. They are believed to represent the cosmic axis, connecting the physical and spiritual realms. Stupas also provide a focal point for meditation and offer a space for devotees to pay homage and engage in religious practices. The act of circumambulating a stupa, walking around it in a clockwise direction, is considered a form of spiritual devotion.

Construction Process
The construction of stupas follows a specific architectural design and ritualistic process. Here is a brief overview of the steps involved:

1. Selection of Location: The site for building a stupa is carefully chosen based on auspicious considerations such as geomancy and astrology.

2. Foundation: The construction begins with the creation of a strong foundation, often made of stone or concrete. This ensures stability and longevity for the stupa.

3. Dome Structure: The central element of a stupa is its dome-shaped structure, which represents the cosmic mountain. It is typically made of bricks or stones and is layered with plaster or white paint.

4. Harmika and Chhatra: At the top of the dome, a square platform called the harmika is constructed. It symbolizes the higher realms and is adorned with decorative elements such as parasols (chhatra) and bells.

5. Finial: The pinnacle of the stupa, known as the finial or the yasti, is placed at the very top. It is often made of metal, such as gold or bronze, and can take various forms, including a lotus, a flame, or a representation of the Buddha.

6. Encircling Pathway: A circumambulatory path, known as the pradakshina path, is constructed around the stupa to facilitate the ritualistic practice of walking in clockwise circles.

Reasons for Building Stupas
The construction of stupas serves several purposes, including:

1. Preservation of Relics: Stupas were built to enshrine and protect sacred relics of the Buddha or other revered Buddhist figures. These relics are believed to possess spiritual power and provide a connection to the enlightened beings.

2. Pilgrimage Sites: Stupas became important pilgrimage sites, attracting devotees from far and wide. Pilgrims visit stupas to pay respect, make offerings, and seek blessings and spiritual guidance.

3. Commemoration: Stupas were constructed as a way to commemorate significant events or individuals in Buddhist history. They serve as reminders of the teachings of the Buddha and the achievements of great practitioners.

4. Merit-Making: The act of building a stupa is considered a meritorious deed in Buddhism. It is believed to accrue positive karma for the builders and sponsors, contributing to their spiritual progress and well-being.

In conclusion, stupas were built as sacred structures to house relics, symbolize enlightenment, and provide spaces for religious practices. The construction process involves careful planning and adherence to

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