The Stupa Project
The completed Stupa of Reconciliation.
Dekhung Gyaltsey Rinpoche with monks from Rumtek Monastery performing consecration ceremonies for the Stupa of Reconciliation.
A magnificent effort by so many. Thank you to all who contributed to this wonderful project.
Placement by Dekhung Gyaltsey Rinpoche for the next stupas to be constructed.
Join us on this exciting journey
What is a Stupa ?
While the different sections of the stupa have various symbolic meanings, its basic shape has come to represent the seated Buddha when he achieved enlightenment. The square base represents the Buddha’s crossed legs as he sat on the earth; the middle section, called the hemisphere or mound, is the Buddha’s body; and the conical spire at the top represents the Buddha’s head. There may also be a wooden pole within the stupa representing the Buddha’s spine or central channel (avadhuti).
Stupa of Reconciliation
There are traditionally eight different kinds of stupas, with each representing a key event or enlightened aspect from the life of the Buddha.
The recently completed Stupa of Reconciliation stems from a time when the Buddha healed a rift within the community of practitioners, and as such it also acts as a reminder to set aside differences and aspire for peace.
Next steps
There are plans to construct an additional seven smaller stupas, with Rinpoche having selected the locations for the next three.
Benefits
The Buddha taught extensively about the benefits of building stupas, as well as the benefits to those who support and make contact with stupas.
To build a stupa, transmissions from a qualified Buddhist teacher are necessary. When visiting a stupa, practitioners circumambulate it clockwise as a meditation practice, focusing on the endless cycle of rebirth (samsara) and the eightfold path that leads to freedom from suffering.
In the Sutra of the White Lotus of the Sacred Dharma, it says:
Walls are made from mud and bricks
And a stupa of the Victorious One is made likewise…
Whomever simply builds one on the account of the Victorious One
All of them will attain enlightenment.
Support
We invite you to contribute to the construction of the Stupas.
Direct deposits of any amount are welcome:
Stupas - Sacred Monuments donations – A/c 41009851
Karma Yiwong Samten Ling Stupas
Swift code: CUSCAU2SXXX,
BSB: BSB 325-185
Beyond Bank, Australia.
Thank you!
The Centre acknowledges the extraordinary contribution of all who have contributed physically and financially to the construction of the Stupas so far. Your vision and support are deeply appreciated!
We hope you will continue to support us as we take the next steps!