The Place Where the Dharma Began to Turn

Having the opportunity to visit the Dharmarajika Stupa in Sarnath, India, is an unforgettable experience for any Buddhist.

As I stepped into the stupa's grounds, an inexplicable sense of peace immediately enveloped me. The surrounding chatter gradually faded, leaving only the sound of the wind rustling through the leaves and the soft chanting of prayers from pilgrims who had traveled from across the globe, including Thailand, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Japan, and Nepal.

The Dharmarajika Stupa is believed to be the site where the Buddha delivered his first sermon, the "Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta," to the five ascetics shortly after his enlightenment. This moment marked the beginning of the dissemination of the Buddha's teachings to the human world.

Standing before the ancient, towering, circular stupa in the middle of a vast courtyard, the aged bricks spoke of a history spanning over 2,000 years. Closing my eyes, I envisioned the moment when the Buddha resided in the Isipatana Deer Park, delivering his profound teachings.

What impressed me the most was the atmosphere of "pure faith." People here worshiped with serenity. Some meditated, while others circumambulated the stupa with mindfulness. I joined in the ritual of walking three rounds around the stupa, silently chanting prayers. The feeling at that moment was filled with joy and deep reverence, bringing tears to my eyes without realizing it.

Post by WATTOSANN | Oct 6, 2025