
Symbolism of the Stupa
The outside of the Stupa represents the meditating buddha. The inside of the Stupa represents the elements and corresponding wisdom. The Stupa seen from above represents a perfect mandala, or representation of the universe. |
Sections of the Stupa Symbolize the Path to Enlightenment |
Jewel: Enlightenment The Sun: Wisdom The Moon: Heart of Awakening - Bodhichitta The Parasol: Compassion The Spire or 13 rings: The ten levels or bhumis of the Mahayana path and The three highest stages of the Vajrayana path. The Harmika, Eyes of the Buddha: the Eight-fold Noble Paths: 1. Path of Right View, 2. Right Intention, 3. Right Speech, 4. Right Action, 5. Right Livelihood, 6. Right Effort, 7. Right Mindfulness, 8. Right Concentration
 The Bumpa The Buddha’s chest: the Seven Elements of Enlightenment: 1. Mindfulness, 2. Discrimination, 3. Exertion, 4. Joy, 5. Pliancy, 6. Samadhi, and 7. Equanimity. Four Immeasureables The legs of the Buddha: The Four Immeasurables of 1. Loving Kindness, 2. Compassion, 3. Joy and 4. Equanimity. The Throne The three steps at the base, the throne the Three Refuges of Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. |
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The 5 Elements, 5 Colors and 5 Wisdoms Related to Stupa The Stupa incorporates five basic geometric shapes that correspond to the five elements. Each element, in turn, corresponds to an essential attribute of a fully awakened being: The square base of the Stupa represents earth and equanimity; The round dome,water and indestructibility; The triangular spire, fire and compassion; The semi-circular umbrella/parasol, wind/air and all-accomplishing action; and at the very top, The jewel-shaped tigle or drop represents space and all-pervading awareness. Sections of the Stupa symbolize the Path to Enlightenment |
STUPA
SECTION
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SHAPE
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COLOR
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ELEMENT
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WISDOM
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FAMILY AND
MEANING
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Jewel
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Dewdrop
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White
0range
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Space
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All-Pervading
Awareness
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Buddha Family - He
Who Makes Visible
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Parasol
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Half Circle
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Green
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Wind/
Air
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All-Accomplishing
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Karma Family
Unfailing- Success
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Spire
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Triangle
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Red
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Fire
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Discriminating
Compassion
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Padma Family
Limitless Radiance
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Dome
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Circle
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Blue
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Water
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Mirror-Like
Wisdom
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Vajra Family
Indestructibility
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Base
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Square
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Yellow
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Earth
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Equanimity
Wisdom
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Ratna Family
Jewel-Born
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Elements |
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The Sections of The Stupa picture and information are used with permission of Kunzang Palyul Chöling Center. | |
The Meaning of the Stupa by Venerable Yeshi Dorjee |
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