Glossary

3.3 Early Buddhist architecture: stupas and pillars

4 min read•july 29, 2024

Early Buddhist architecture centered on stupas and pillars, powerful symbols of the faith. Stupas housed and served as focal points for worship, while pillars spread Buddhist teachings. These structures embodied core Buddhist principles and 's commitment to the religion.

The design and function of stupas and pillars evolved over time, reflecting Buddhism's spread across India. Regional variations emerged, incorporating local artistic traditions. These architectural forms became enduring symbols of Buddhism, influencing art and worship practices throughout Asia.

Stupa and Pillar Architecture

Components and Symbolism

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  • Stupas are -shaped structures built to house relics of the Buddha or revered monks and serve as focal points for worship and pilgrimage
    • Main components include a square base (medhi) representing the earth and four cardinal directions, a hemispherical dome (anda) symbolizing the Buddha's enlightenment, a square railing () on top of the dome, and a central pillar (yasti) rising from the harmika
  • Early stupas, such as the (3rd century BCE), were simple hemispherical structures with a central pillar and a railing around the base
  • Buddhist pillars, like the Ashoka Pillars (3rd century BCE), were free-standing monolithic columns erected by Emperor Ashoka to spread Buddhist teachings
    • Pillars were often topped with animal capitals (lions or elephants) symbolizing the emperor's power and authority
    • Pillars featured inscriptions in Brahmi script outlining Ashoka's edicts and commitment to Buddhism

Functions and Worship

  • Stupas physically represented the Buddha's presence and teachings, acting as focal points for devotion and meditation
  • Constructing and venerating stupas were considered meritorious acts leading to spiritual advancement and better rebirth
  • Stupas functioned as pilgrimage centers, attracting devotees to circumambulate the structure as a form of worship
  • Ashoka Pillars were instrumental in spreading Buddhist teachings across the Mauryan Empire and beyond
    • Inscriptions on the pillars, known as the Edicts of Ashoka, promoted Buddhist values (non-violence, tolerance, compassion)
    • Pillars established Ashoka's authority as a Buddhist ruler and his role in propagating the faith

Significance of Stupas and Pillars

Religious and Cultural Impact

  • Stupas served as tangible representations of the Buddha's presence and teachings, providing a focus for devotion and meditation
  • Building and venerating stupas were seen as meritorious acts contributing to spiritual growth and better future rebirths
  • Stupas became important pilgrimage sites, drawing devotees to engage in circumambulation as a form of worship and reverence
  • Ashoka Pillars played a crucial role in disseminating Buddhist teachings throughout the Mauryan Empire and surrounding regions
    • The Edicts of Ashoka inscribed on the pillars emphasized core Buddhist values (non-violence, tolerance, compassion), promoting the faith's spread
    • The pillars reinforced Ashoka's position as a powerful Buddhist ruler committed to propagating the religion

Enduring Symbolism

  • Animal capitals on pillars, particularly the , became lasting symbols of Buddhism
    • The lion capital from the Sarnath Pillar (3rd century BCE) was later adopted as the national emblem of India
  • Stupas continue to serve as important sites of Buddhist worship and pilgrimage in the present day
    • The Great Stupa at Sanchi remains a significant monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • The architectural and artistic elements of early stupas and pillars influenced the development of Buddhist art and architecture in other regions (Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, East Asia)

Stupa and Pillar Evolution

Design Developments

  • Stupa design evolved from simple hemispherical structures to more complex and elaborate forms over time
    • Later stupas, like the Amaravati Stupa (2nd century CE), incorporated intricate carvings and narrative reliefs depicting the Buddha's life and teachings
    • Gateways (toranas) and a circumambulatory path (pradakshinapatha) around the stupa's base became common features in later designs
  • Buddhist pillar design also underwent changes, with later pillars featuring more elaborate capitals and inscriptions
    • The Sarnath Pillar (3rd century BCE) with its iconic lion capital exemplifies Ashokan pillar architecture
    • The Iron Pillar of Delhi (4th century CE) showcases advancements in metallurgy and engineering, standing over 7 meters tall and weighing over 6 tons

Regional Variations

  • As Buddhism spread across ancient India, regional variations in stupa design emerged
    • The Gandharan style, found in present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan, incorporated Hellenistic and Roman architectural elements (Corinthian capitals, acanthus leaf motifs)
    • The Andhra style, prevalent in south-eastern India, featured elaborate carvings and narrative friezes on the stupa's drum and dome
  • These regional styles reflect the adaptation of Buddhist architecture to local cultural and artistic traditions
    • The integration of foreign architectural elements in the Gandharan style reflects the region's exposure to Hellenistic and Roman influences following Alexander the Great's conquests
    • The elaborate carvings and friezes of the Andhra style demonstrate the high level of artistic skill and craftsmanship in the region

Key Terms to Review (17)

Ashoka's Pillars: Ashoka's Pillars are a series of monumental stone columns erected by Emperor Ashoka during his reign in the 3rd century BCE, primarily to spread the teachings of Buddhism. These pillars served not only as significant architectural achievements but also as important vehicles for communication of moral and ethical guidelines derived from Buddhist philosophy, often inscribed with edicts promoting non-violence and respect for all living beings.
Boudhanath Stupa: The Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest and most important stupas in Nepal, located on the outskirts of Kathmandu. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists, representing the cosmic universe through its architectural design. The stupa is known for its massive mandala and its distinctive all-seeing eyes that symbolize the omnipresence of the Buddha.
Buddhaghosa: Buddhaghosa was an influential 5th-century Buddhist scholar and commentator known for his extensive writings on Theravada Buddhism. His most notable work, the Visuddhimagga, serves as a comprehensive guide to Buddhist practice and meditation. His contributions helped shape the understanding of Buddhist doctrine and practices, particularly in the context of early Buddhist architecture, where he emphasized the significance of stupas and pillars as physical representations of the Buddha's teachings.
Carving: Carving refers to the artistic technique of shaping materials such as stone, wood, or ivory by cutting, chipping, or incising to create detailed forms and figures. In the context of monumental Buddhist sculpture and early Buddhist architecture, carving is essential for expressing religious themes, narratives, and the intricate details of figures and architectural elements that convey spiritual significance and artistic expression.
Chaitya: A chaitya is a Buddhist prayer hall or assembly hall that often houses a stupa, which is a dome-shaped structure containing sacred relics. These structures are significant in Buddhist architecture, serving as places for worship and meditation. Chaityas typically feature intricate carvings and are designed to facilitate community gatherings for rituals and teachings, reflecting the early spread of Buddhism and its emphasis on communal practice.
Cosmic axis: The cosmic axis is a symbolic representation of the connection between the earthly realm and the cosmos, often depicted as a vertical line or pole that links the heavens with the earth and the underworld. This concept is important in various cultures and religions, including Buddhism, where it signifies the central point around which the universe revolves and plays a crucial role in the design of early Buddhist architecture, particularly stupas and pillars.
Dome: A dome is an architectural feature that is typically a rounded, vaulted roof structure, often used in various styles of buildings to create an impression of spaciousness and light. In the context of early Buddhist architecture, domes are significant because they serve as key elements in stupas, symbolizing the universe and representing enlightenment, while also providing a distinct visual element that conveys the spiritual importance of these structures.
Emperor Ashoka: Emperor Ashoka was a prominent ruler of the Maurya Dynasty who reigned from 268 to 232 BCE, known for his significant role in the spread of Buddhism across Asia. After a transformative experience following the Kalinga War, he adopted Buddhism and initiated a series of policies promoting non-violence, compassion, and the moral teachings of the Buddha. His patronage led to the construction of important architectural features such as stupas, pillars, and cave complexes that played a vital role in disseminating Buddhist art and ideology.
Great Stupa at Sanchi: The Great Stupa at Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structures in India and an important monument in Buddhist architecture, built during the reign of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. It serves as a significant pilgrimage site, symbolizing the teachings of Buddha through its design and decorative elements, making it a prime example of early Buddhist stupas and pillars.
Harmika: The harmika is a square railing structure that sits atop a stupa, symbolizing the presence of the Buddha and serving as a focal point for worship. This architectural element represents the connection between the earthly realm and the divine, highlighting the stupa's role as a sacred space for Buddhist practice and meditation. The harmika is also significant in ritual contexts, often decorated with auspicious symbols that enhance its spiritual significance.
Lion Capital: The Lion Capital is a sculptural representation featuring four lions standing back to back, serving as a prominent symbol of Buddhism and Indian art. This capital, which once adorned the top of the Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath, signifies the spread of the Buddha's teachings and embodies the power and authority of Emperor Ashoka. Its design illustrates not only artistic mastery but also reflects deep philosophical meanings associated with strength, protection, and the virtues of the Dharma.
Mandala: A mandala is a geometric design that symbolizes the universe in Hindu and Buddhist symbolism, often used as a spiritual guidance tool. It serves as a visual representation of the cosmos, helping practitioners focus their meditation and understand the complexities of existence.
Maurya Period: The Maurya Period refers to a significant era in ancient Indian history, spanning from approximately 322 to 185 BCE, during which the Maurya Empire flourished under notable rulers like Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka. This period is marked by remarkable developments in art, architecture, and the spread of Buddhism, which greatly influenced various cultural and religious practices in Asia.
Post-Mauryan Period: The Post-Mauryan Period refers to the time in Indian history following the decline of the Maurya Empire, approximately from 185 BCE to 320 CE. During this era, significant cultural, political, and architectural developments occurred, particularly in the context of Buddhist arts, where stupas and pillars evolved as key expressions of faith and royal patronage.
Relics: Relics are physical remains or personal effects of a holy person, often considered to be imbued with spiritual significance and power. In early Buddhist architecture, particularly within stupas and pillars, relics serve as objects of veneration and are often enshrined to facilitate devotion and meditation. They are central to the practice of Buddhism, symbolizing the connection between the material and spiritual worlds.
Relief sculpture: Relief sculpture is a three-dimensional artwork that projects from a flat background, creating a sense of depth and dimension while remaining attached to the surface. This form of art allows for the storytelling aspect to shine, often depicting narratives or religious themes, making it a vital element in many cultural contexts.
Stone: In the context of Buddhist art and architecture, stone refers to the primary material used in the construction of sacred structures such as stupas and pillars, as well as in the creation of ritual objects. Stone symbolizes permanence and durability, which aligns with the Buddhist principles of enlightenment and the eternal nature of the Dharma. It is often intricately carved to depict various symbols, narratives, and figures that hold spiritual significance.
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