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COMPONENTS

S T U P A   C O M P O N E N T S


The hemisphere sometimes takes on a bell shape.

THE CIRCLE

This is a symbol of concentration and focus which contains and holds together the space within it’s unbroken line. It turns around a single, central point; the still heart.
The sphere and the hemisphere are the same but in three dimensions; they radiate out in all directions from a single, concentrated point.

The second group of the Eightfold Path is samadhi, concentration. (see page 27)+
     Where the foundation of the religious life is sila (morality), samadhi (concentration) is the seed. This centre of concentration rests on the earth (the base), protected and nurtured by the dome. The practice of samadhi is the strengthening of concentration. It focuses the mind creating opportunities for insight which lead to liberation.

A BELL

A bell is symbolic of pure vibration and energy. It has a concentrated source and radiates out into the world for all those who are close enough to hear. Bells are commonly used in many religions and the sound of a ringing bell in a religious context reminds everyone of their spiritual dimension. It calls out in a clear and pure voice ‘wake up, don’t forget!’ For Buddhists it is a reminder both of the the sound of the Dhamma itself and a reminder to go and listen to the Dhamma, the teachings of the Buddha (and to wake up in the morning).


The American ‘Liberty Bell’


The parinibbana stupa at Kusinara,
the site of the Buddha’s death.

The circular plan of the stupa dome represents the circle of
the earth and the dome itself is
the world of gods and men.

SUMMARY:

SPHERE
Pure geometry. The seamless container of the conditioned world. Symbolising the ‘shell’ of the universe, containing all that is Dhamma.

WATER
A water-bubble and an egg. Symbols of fertility, life or growth potential.

DHAMMA
The teaching is an investigation of nature and a practical guide to unifying an often scattered mind. An expression of the Truth leading to liberation.

SAMADHI
By focusing the mind, one’s investigation slowly becomes centred which allows the development of insight and wisdom.