Kadampa Stupa

• Description
• History
• Dimensions

• The Kadampa stupa is distinguished by its bell-like base. The design includes a row of doubled lotus petals along the base. Above the lotus petals is a stepped harmika-fence, representing the eightfold noble path. Above that is a stacked arrangement of thirteen concentric rings, representing the bhumis along which every enlightened being has progressed. Adorning the top of the stupa is a lotus-form top piece, symbolizing the inherent purity of buddha nature.

*Prior to using this statue as a meditation support on your shrine, it is traditional to have a statue filled with the proper ritual substances and consecrated by a genuine lama.

• The Kadampa style of stupa has its roots in ancient India, said to have been introduced to Tibet by the Kadampa teacher,Atiśa. Wherever he traveled,he carried with him a wooden stupa of this style. The Kadampa stupa is said to be based on the eighth and final of the Eight Great Stupas, symbolizing the parinirvana of Buddha Shakyamuni.

  In the Guhyasamaja Tantra is states:

  A stupa is a palace where all the buddhas are abiding. Those beings who don’t have the karma actually to see buddha need the holy objects of body, speech and mind – statues, scriptures, stupas – as a field for accumulating merit.

  Representing the guru's mind and often associated with the mandala offering, this stupa is steeped in a tradition of devotion and dedicated practice.

• 4.5 in by 1 in, 9.3 oz