Thuparamaya
Thuparamaya is recognized as the earliest documented Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, with its construction dating back to the introduction of Buddhism to the island. It holds significant historical and religious importance as the first stupa built in Sri Lanka, enshrining a relic of the Buddha and marking the formal arrival of Theravada Buddhism.
Key Facts
- ›It is the earliest documented Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka.
- ›The stupa was built during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa (247-207 BC).
- ›It enshrines the right collar-bone of the Buddha.
- ›The temple's name derives from 'stupa' and 'aramaya' (monastic residential complex).
- ›The current stupa structure dates to a rebuilding in 1842.
- ›It is listed as a protected archaeological site in Sri Lanka.
Important Relationships
- Mahinda Thera
- King Devanampiya Tissa
- King Ashoka
- King Aggabodhi II
- King Gajabahu
Enshrines the Right Collar-Bone of the Buddha, Bell-Shaped Stupa, Remnants of A Roofed Vatadage
Introduction of Buddhism To Sri Lanka, Mahinda Thera's Arrival, Construction of the First Stupa In Sri Lanka
Bell-Shaped Stupa
About Thuparamaya
Thuparamaya: The Dawn of Buddhism in Sri Lanka
Thuparamaya stands as a pivotal monument in Sri Lankan history, recognized as the earliest documented Buddhist temple on the island. Its establishment is intrinsically linked to the arrival of Mahinda Thera and the subsequent introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka, marking a profound cultural and religious shift for the island nation.
Historical Context and Founding
The construction of Thuparamaya dates back to the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa (247-207 BC), a period synonymous with the formal acceptance of Buddhism. Mahinda Thera, an envoy sent by the Indian Emperor Ashoka, brought Theravada Buddhism and the practice of Chaitya worship to Sri Lanka. At Mahinda Thera's request, King Devanampiya Tissa commissioned Thuparamaya, a stupa built to enshrine a sacred relic of the Buddha: his right collar-bone. This act solidified Thuparamaya's claim as the first stupa constructed on the island and symbolized the official embrace of the Buddha's teachings.
The name "Thuparamaya" itself reflects its dual nature, combining "stupa" (reliquary mound) with "aramaya," a term denoting a monastic residential complex for monks. This indicates that the site was intended not only as a place of veneration but also as a center for monastic life.
The Stupa and its Evolution
The Thuparamaya stupa was originally built in a distinctive bell shape. Over the centuries, the monument faced periods of destruction and disrepair, necessitating repeated restorations. Historical records indicate that by the reign of King Aggabodhi II, the site was in ruins, and it was subsequently restored by royal decree. The current architectural form of the stupa largely dates to a significant rebuilding effort in 1842. Despite these renovations, the monument has retained its historical essence, with its base measuring 59 feet (18 meters) in diameter and the entire structure reaching a diameter of over 164 feet (50.1 meters). The compound is paved with granite, and remnants of stone pillars surrounding the stupa point to the existence of a former roofed structure, known as a vatadage, that once sheltered the monument.
Significance and Recognition
Thuparamaya is not merely an ancient structure; it is a testament to the deep-rooted Buddhist heritage of Sri Lanka. Its association with the foundational moments of Buddhism on the island, its role as a reliquary shrine, and its continued veneration make it a site of immense religious and archaeological importance. The Sri Lankan government officially recognizes Thuparamaya as a protected archaeological site, underscoring its value for historical preservation and cultural understanding.
Evidence of the temple's early support is found in inscriptions such as the Palumekichchawa Inscription. This inscription, dating to the reign of King Gajabahu (114-136 A.D.), refers to the construction of the Madamanaka tank and the donation of its harvest to the monks of the Thuparama temple, highlighting the temple's established presence and its economic ties to the surrounding community.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Thuparamaya built?
Thuparamaya was built during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa, which dates back to 247-207 BC. This makes it the earliest documented Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka.
What relic is enshrined at Thuparamaya?
Thuparamaya was built to enshrine the right collar-bone of the Buddha. This act is closely linked to the arrival of Mahinda Thera and the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka.
What is the architectural style of the Thuparamaya stupa?
The Thuparamaya dagoba was originally built in the shape of a bell. While it has undergone numerous restorations and renovations over centuries, its current construction reflects later rebuilding efforts.
What is the significance of the Palumekichchawa Inscription regarding Thuparamaya?
The Palumekichchawa Inscription is the earliest known chiseled stone inscription that mentions the Thuparamaya temple by name. It indicates that a tank was constructed and its harvest donated to the monks residing at the temple during the reign of King Gajabahu (114-136 A.D.).
What were the remnants of the roofed structure at Thuparamaya?
The compound of the Thuparamaya is paved with granite and features two rows of stone pillars ringing the dagoba. These pillars are remnants of a roofed vatadage that was once built over the Thuparamaya stupa.
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