The Stupa :
An Architectural Symbol of the 37 Limbs of Enlightenment
The stupa is not only a representation of Buddhist cosmology but also a profound embodiment of the Buddha's path to enlightenment, specifically mirroring the 37 Limbs of Enlightenment.
These 37 limbs, are organized into seven categories, forming a most comprehensive guide to spiritual development, and awakening. For more details, see: KTP | GT-017-E. Such teachings calls for study and practice but here is a reminder of the main points involved.
The architecture of the stupa, with its symbolic elements, offers a physical manifestation of these abstract teachings, serving as both a tool for meditation and a map for the journey towards enlightenment.
1-4 The Base: Four Foundations of Mindfulness (Satipatthana)
The base of the stupa, often square or rectangular, symbolizes the earth element. It is the foundation upon which all other elements rest, akin to the foundational role of mindfulness in the Buddhist path. The Four Foundations of Mindfulness - mindfulness of the body, feelings, mind, and phenomena - are the initial steps in understanding the true nature of reality. Just as the base supports the stupa, mindfulness supports all subsequent spiritual practices.
5-8 The Dome: Four Right Exertions (Sammappadhana)
The dome, representing the water element, is a visual metaphor for the flow and exertion needed in spiritual practice or The Four Right Exertions (the effort to prevent, abandon, develop, and maintain) reflect the continuous effort required in the cultivation of wholesome states and the removal of unwholesome ones.
This continuous effort in spiritual practice is mirrored in the stupa's ascending structure, leading the practitioner upwards in their spiritual journey.
9-12 The Harmika and Spire: Four Bases of Supernatural Power (Iddhipada)
Above the dome sits the harmika, and rising from it is the spire with its thirteen tiers. The harmika, a cubic structure, symbolizes the air element and marks a transition from the mundane to the supramundane.
It resonates with the Four Bases of Supernatural Power, or four concentrations needed to achieve spiritual breakthroughs:
- Concentration of intention,
- Concentration of energy,
- Concentration of consciousness, and
- Concentration of investigation.
13-19 The Seven Factors of Enlightenment (Bojjhanga)
The spire, often composed of thirteen tiers, represents the fire element, symbolizing transformation and ascension through the 13 Bhumis.
This element can be associated with the Seven Factors of Enlightenment:
- Mindfulness,
- Investigation,
- Energy,
- Joy,
- Tranquillity,
- Concentration,
As the spire reaches skyward, it symbolizes the progressive development and balancing of these factors, leading to the pinnacle of enlightenment through the practice of the six Paramitas.
The Umbrella: The Noble Eightfold Path (Ariya Magga)
The umbrella, crowning the stupa, symbolizes the ether element and the ultimate goal of the Buddhist path. It resonates with the Noble Eightfold Path: the comprehensive guide to ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom.
Just as the umbrella crowns the stupa, the Noble Eightfold Path crowns the practice of the Dharma, leading to liberation from suffering.
The Gates and Eyes: The Five Faculties (Indriya) and Powers (Bala)
Many stupas feature four ornate gates facing the cardinal directions and pairs of eyes on each side of the harmika. These elements can be related to the Five Faculties and Powers:
- Faith,
- Energy,
- Mindfulness,
- Concentration, and
The gates invite entry from all directions, symbolizing the universal applicability of the Buddha’s teachings. The all-seeing eyes represent the omniscience of the Buddha and the comprehensive nature of the Five Faculties and Powers, which are essential in achieving spiritual insight.
To conclude: An Emblem of Spiritual Journey
The Tibetan Buddhist stupa, through its layered symbolism, serves as a microcosm of the Buddhist path.
Each architectural element reflects key aspects of the 37 Limbs of Enlightenment, offering practitioners not only a visual representation of the Buddha's teachings but also a tangible structure for meditation and reflection.
The stupa stands as a guide, a reminder, and a symbol of the potential for enlightenment inherent in every sentient being. It encapsulates the essence of the Dharma, providing a bridge between the physical world and the realm of spiritual realization.
