Today, we're going to talk about stupas, which are essential in Buddhism. What do you think a stupa represents?

Great question! Stupas are built to house relics, which are sacred remains of the Buddha. Their purpose is to honor these remains. They symbolize the Buddha’s teachings and his achievements.

Exactly! They act similarly to memorials, keeping the Buddha's memory alive. Remember the acronym RELIC—R for Remains, E for Enlightenment, L for Living, I for Inspiration, and C for Commemoration.

Let's summarize: stupas are memorials that house the Buddha's remains and inspire his teachings.

Now, let’s discuss how the stupas were constructed. What do you think influenced their construction?

Absolutely! After the Buddha’s death, relics like his bones were divided and distributed to many places, where they became the center of stupas. This method is outlined in the Ashokavadana.

Yes! King Asoka was crucial in promoting the construction of stupas across India, which made Buddhism more widespread.

Typically, they were made from stone and earth, evolving into more elaborate structures over time. Let's recap: stupas were constructed to honor the Buddha, with contributions from various communities.

Now that we know what stupas are and how they were built, let’s look at their key architectural features. What can we find in a stupa's architecture?

Correct! The main feature is called the anda, which is the large dome. Above it is the harmika, which represents the abode of the gods. Can anyone think of how Buddhist worship occurs around the stupa?

Yes! They walk clockwise around the stupa, which reflects the sun’s movement in the sky. Let’s summarize this session: stupas have distinct features like the anda and harmika, and worshippers walk around them.

Finally, let’s address why the construction of stupas was significant to the community. Why do you think people wanted to contribute to their construction?

Absolutely! Contributing to stupas helped laypeople feel a part of the Buddhist community and the broader spiritual journey. Donations recorded in inscriptions tell us about the contributors.

A mix! Kings, guilds, men, and women all made contributions. Remember this concept: the acronym CIRCLE—C for Community, I for Involvement, R for Relics, C for Contribution, L for Legacy, E for Enlightenment.

In summary, community involvement in building stupas fosters a strong sense of belonging and spirituality.

Now, let's connect the past to the present. How do you think stupas are perceived today?

Right! Stupas continue to be significant pilgrimage sites. They embody the Buddha's teachings, acting as centers for worship and meditation.

While new stupas might not be built frequently, the existing ones are maintained as cultural heritage. Let’s summarize: stupas remain vital in living Buddhism and continue to inspire spiritual practices.