Varanasi, India: The Important Buddhist Site of Sarnath

Summary

This video takes viewers on a journey to the sacred archaeological site of Sarna, located near Barasi, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. The site holds great significance, with historical connections to Emperor Ashoka, who visited in the 3rd century BC, built stupas, and erected columns in commemoration. The video explores the remnants of ancient monasteries, stupas, and Ashoka's monolithic column. The site is a hub for Buddhist pilgrims, with Tibetan influences evident in the local culture. Rich in history and spirituality, Sarna remains an important pilgrimage destination.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sarna is an important archaeological site located about 15-20 kilometers outside of Barasi, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon.
• 😀 The Dalai Lama has visited Sarna, highlighting the site's significance for Buddhists worldwide.
• 😀 Emperor Ashoka visited Sarna in the 3rd century BC after embracing Buddhism, following the destruction of his army during a battle.
• 😀 Ashoka built two stupas and erected a column at Sarna to commemorate the site after his pilgrimage.
• 😀 The Raja Stupa at Sarna once housed Buddha's relics but was destroyed in 1794, with the ashes scattered in the Ganges River.
• 😀 The stupa at Sarna is an important structure, not the location where Buddha delivered his sermon, but a symbol to commemorate the event.
• 😀 Ashoka's pillar at Sarna is one of the finest monolithic columns he erected at various Buddhist pilgrimage sites.
• 😀 The Mul Gand Kti Vihar Temple, built in the 6th century AD during the Gupta period, replaced Buddha’s humble cottage, which was initially at the site.
• 😀 The Mul Gand Kti Vihar Temple is twice the size of the stupa, making it a significant structure in the area.
• 😀 The Ashoka pillar features inscriptions from the 3rd century BC, warning monks and nuns not to create schisms, with punishment decreed by the king.
• 😀 Tibetan pilgrims frequently visit Sarna, bringing handmade woolen goods and adding to the site's vibrant cultural atmosphere.

Q & A

What is the significance of the archaeological site at Sarna?

Sarna is significant because it is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. It is a key pilgrimage site, and even the Dalai Lama has visited it.

What role did Emperor Ashoka play in the history of Sarna?

Emperor Ashoka, after being moved by the bloodshed in battle, converted to Buddhism. He visited Sarna in the 3rd century BC and built two stupas and a column to commemorate the site.

Why did Ashoka erect columns at important Buddhist sites?

Ashoka erected columns at important Buddhist sites to mark their significance. These columns were inscribed with edicts and teachings related to Buddhism.

What happened to the Raja Stupa at Sarna?

The Raja Stupa, which contained Buddha's relics, was destroyed in 1794. The ashes were scattered, and the stupa was left in ruins.

When was the stupa at Sarna built?

The stupa at Sarna was built in the 3rd century BC to commemorate the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon.

What is the significance of the main temple at Sarna?

The main temple, located at the center of the site, marks the place where Buddha once lived in a small cottage. Later, in the 6th century AD, the Guptas built a large monastery called Mul Gandh Kti Vihar Temple.

What are the remaining elements of the site today?

Today, the site features a large stupa, a column erected by Ashoka, and remnants of monasteries. The lion capital that once surmounted the column can be seen in the museum.

What does the inscription on Ashoka's column warn about?

The inscription on Ashoka's column warns monks and nuns against creating any schism within the Buddhist community, with punishment being enforced by the king for violators.

Why is the lion capital from Ashoka's column important?

The lion capital is important as it symbolizes Ashoka's support for Buddhism and is a significant historical artifact. It is displayed in the museum as one of the main attractions.

What is the cultural influence of Tibetans on the site?

Tibetans often visit Sarna, especially in the winter, bringing handmade woolen goods to sell. Their presence adds to the cultural diversity and significance of the site.