01/05/2025
Direct Encounter with Buddha’s Relics
On Saturday, January 4, 2025, for the first time in the Western Hemisphere, my spouse and I, along with all the attendees from our community, Buddhist monks, followers, and well-wishers, had the extraordinary opportunity to directly witness the relics of Buddha.
This golden opportunity has provided new energy and peace to those who have faith in Buddhism, philosophy, and teachings, allowing them to deeply understand the significance and practice of Buddha’s teachings. Historically, Buddha’s relics have held great importance in Buddhist communities for centuries. These relics are considered symbols of Buddha’s physical presence and serve as focal points for worship and meditation. The tradition and belief that the stupas and monasteries housing these sacred relics are sources of spiritual power have persisted for ages. In fact, directly witnessing Buddha’s relics is considered millions of times more auspicious for Buddhist followers than any other religious ceremonies.
Additionally, this experience has entrusted us with the responsibility to understand and integrate Buddhism, philosophy, and teachings more deeply into our daily lives. Understanding its significance means continuously striving to embrace the Noble Eightfold Path as prescribed by Buddha, which guides us towards a life of wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline.
Historical records indicate that Buddha’s relics were placed in stupas by various kings and followers after Buddha’s Parinirvana (nirvana after death). According to these records, the relics were divided and distributed into eight groups:
1. King Ajatashatru of Magadha
2, The Licchavis of Vaishali
3. The Shakyas of Kapilavastu
4, The Bulis of Allakappa
5. The Koliyas of Ramagrama
6. A Brahmin of Vethadipa
7.The Mallas of Pava
8. The Mallas of Kushinagar
Contribution of the Emperor Ashoka
The Emperor Ashoka, who ruled the Maurya dynasty from 273 to 232 BCE, played a significant role in the propagation of Buddhism and the preservation of Buddha’s relics.
After converting to Buddhism, Ashoka dedicated himself to spreading Buddha’s teachings across Asia. He is credited with constructing 84,000 stupas, many of which housed Buddha’s relics.
Notable stupas constructed or commissioned by Ashoka include the Sanchi Stupa, Dhamek Stupa, Mahabodhi Stupa, and many others.
These stupas became important centers for Buddhist worship and pilgrimage, symbolizing the spread and preservation of Buddha’s teachings.
Emperor Ashoka’s contributions and efforts were crucial in constructing these stupas and promoting Buddhism throughout his empire and beyond in many cities around the globe by sending his machineries.
Although his efforts are rarely discussed, I personally consider him one of the most respected figures in Buddhist history based on my research and studies. His contributions significantly improved the spiritual and cultural landscape of the regions under his rule, establishing a deep connection with Buddhist philosophy and practice.
To date, I have not found any evidence of any individual or religious leader after him who has been able to establish such a profound dedication, contribution to make significant contributions to Buddha and to spread his teachings , although the study continues.
It is essential to understand the contributions of those who have preserved Buddha’s relics, not just in the context of today but globally: China, Thailand, Japan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Singapore, the United States, Cambodia, Laos, Mongolia, and Vietnam, where the number of Buddhist followers is approximately 535 million (representing about 7% to 8% of the world’s total population).
It is also noteworthy that China has the largest Buddhist population, with approximately 470 million people following Buddhism.
After Emperor Ashoka, many have attempted to interpret and propagate Buddha’s original philosophy and teachings in their own ways, establishing their own dominance and lineage.
Many places Some have even displaced Buddha, with their own image.
