Question

What is the meaning of Stupa?

Hint:

Think of a stupa as the most fundamental form of Buddhist monumental architecture. Its core purpose is to be a reliquary, a container for sacred remains, making it a focal point of devotion.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the definition and significance of a Stupa.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
A Stupa (from Sanskrit, meaning 'heap' or 'mound') is a dome-shaped or mound-like structure that serves as a Buddhist shrine.
\begin{itemize}[noitemsep] \item Origin and Purpose: Stupas originated as pre-Buddhist burial mounds. In Buddhism, they are primarily built to enshrine the sacred relics of the Buddha, his disciples, or other venerable figures. After the Buddha's Parinirvana (death), his cremated remains were divided and buried under several stupas. \item Symbolism: A stupa is a highly symbolic monument. It represents the enlightened mind of the Buddha, the path to enlightenment, and the universe itself. \item Function: It is a place of pilgrimage, meditation, and worship for Buddhists. Devotees circumambulate (walk around) the stupa in a clockwise direction as a mark of reverence. \end{itemize} The Great Stupa at Sanchi, originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka, is one of the most famous examples.

Step 3: Final Answer:
A Stupa is a dome-shaped Buddhist monument, used as a place of meditation and to house the sacred relics of the Buddha or other holy persons.