Question
Consider the following statements:
1. The concept of Stupa is Buddhist in origin.
2. Stupa was generally a repository of relics.
3. Stupa was a votive and commemorative structure in Buddhist tradition.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Correct Answer — B
Explanation
The correct option is B (Only two).
- Statement 1 is incorrect: The stupa was not Buddhist in origin. It evolved from pre-Buddhist earthen burial mounds and tumuli (chaityas) raised over the mortal remains of ascetics and kings. The word stūpa (a raised mound or heap) is traced back to Vedic literature like the Rigveda; Buddhism adopted, refined, and institutionalized the architecture.
- Statement 2 is correct: Stupas functioned predominantly as reliquaries (dhatu-garbha) to enshrine sacred bodily relics (saririka) or objects used (paribhogika) by the Buddha and venerated monks.
- Statement 3 is correct: In Buddhist practice, stupas were built as both:
- Commemorative monuments (uddesika): Commemorating pivotal life events or locations associated with the Buddha.
- Votive offerings: Erected by pilgrims and devotees at sacred complexes to earn spiritual merit.