Boudhanath Stupa, Nepal

The Story of Boudhanath Stupa, Nepal

Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a revered Buddhist monument located in Kathmandu, Nepal. It holds deep spiritual significance for Tibetan Buddhists and Nepali Buddhists alike.

The Legend of Its Origin

According to legend, a woman named Jadzima (or Ma Jhyazima) wanted to build a stupa to enshrine relics of the Buddha. She approached the king for permission, and he granted her as much land as a buffalo’s hide could cover. Cleverly, she cut the hide into thin strips and encircled a vast area, claiming the land for the stupa.

With the help of her four sons, she built the stupa, which later became one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal. It is believed that anyone who circumambulates the stupa with a pure heart and devotion will attain spiritual merit and blessings.

Historical Background

Boudhanath Stupa is believed to have been built in the 5th century CE during the Licchavi period. Over time, it became a major center of Tibetan Buddhism, especially after the 1959 Tibetan uprising when many Tibetans fled to Nepal and settled around the stupa.

The structure is designed in the shape of a mandala, symbolizing the Buddhist universe. The all-seeing eyes of the Buddha painted on the stupa represent wisdom and awareness, while the 13 steps leading to the pinnacle signify the stages of enlightenment.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance

Boudhanath is a focal point for Buddhist rituals, festivals, and daily prayers. Pilgrims and monks walk around the stupa in a clockwise direction while spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. It remains one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal and a vibrant cultural landmark in Kathmandu.

The legend of Boudhanath Stupa revolves around a pious woman named Jadzima (or Ma Jhyazima) and her four sons, who played a vital role in constructing the great stupa.

Jadzima’s Wish to Build a Stupa

Jadzima was a devout Buddhist who wished to build a grand stupa to enshrine relics of the Buddha and earn merit for future lives. She approached the local king for permission, and he granted her as much land as a buffalo’s hide could cover. Cleverly, she cut the hide into thin strips and encircled a large area, securing the land where the Boudhanath Stupa now stands.

The Role of Her Four Sons

Jadzima’s four sons were equally devoted to the Buddhist path and helped her in every way to build the stupa. Each of them made a vow while constructing it:
1. The Eldest Son – He wished to be a great Dharma teacher in his future life to spread the teachings of the Buddha.
2. The Second Son – He aspired to become a powerful king who would protect Buddhism and its followers.
3. The Third Son – He desired to be a great patron who would always support the monastic community and the construction of Buddhist monuments.
4. The Youngest Son – He wished to be a spiritual guide who could lead sentient beings to enlightenment.

The Rebirth of the Four Sons

According to Tibetan Buddhist belief, their wishes came true in their future lives:
• The eldest son was reborn as Atiśa Dipankara, a great Buddhist master who helped revive Buddhism in Tibet.
• The second son became Trisong Detsen, the famous Tibetan king who invited Guru Padmasambhava to Tibet and helped spread Vajrayana Buddhism.
• The third son was reborn as a wealthy patron who helped build many Buddhist temples and monasteries.
• The youngest son became a high spiritual master, guiding countless beings on the path to enlightenment.

The Legacy of Boudhanath Stupa

Due to the great merit of Jadzima and her sons, Boudhanath Stupa remains one of the holiest Buddhist sites. Pilgrims believe that walking around the stupa, offering prayers, and making offerings can bring great blessings, just as Jadzima and her four sons attained spiritual greatness.