Why Visiting Swarnamali Pagoda Equals Meeting the Supreme Buddha
Why Swarnamali Pagoda is So Special
If there is one sacred destination that carries the weight of the Buddha’s living presence, it is the Swarnamali Pagoda, also known worldwide as Ruwanwelisaya in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Devotees believe that visiting this pagoda is equal to seeing and worshipping the real Supreme Buddha alive. The emotions, merits, and blessings one receives here are said to be the same as directly paying homage to the Enlightened One himself.
This grand stupa is not just a monument but a living testimony to Buddhist faith, miraculous history, and divine protection. The story of its construction, its sacred relics, and the mysteries surrounding it make the Swarnamali Pagoda one of the holiest places in the entire Buddhist world.
The Greatness of Relics in Buddhism
What Are Relics?
After the Parinibbana (passing away) of the Buddha, his body was cremated, and his relics were divided and enshrined in different stupas around India and beyond. Relics (saririka dhatu) are physical remains or objects associated with the Buddha, carrying immense spiritual power.
The Drona Measurement and Seven Dronas of Relics
In ancient times, there was a unit of measurement called a “Drona.” This name came from Drona Brahmin, who distributed the relics of the Buddha after his cremation. It is recorded that there were seven full Dronas of relics from the Blessed One’s body.
Out of those, one entire Drona of relics was enshrined in the womb of the Swarnamali Pagoda. This makes the stupa unique it houses more relics of the Buddha in one place than anywhere else on earth.
The Role of Arahants in Constructing the Pagoda
Supernatural Assistance
According to chronicles, many Arahants, disciples of the Buddha who had reached enlightenment, used their supernormal powers to help construct the Swarnamali Pagoda. It is said they hid the foundation seven times deep into the earth, ensuring stability and resilience for millennia.
Eternal Lamps
Another miracle determined by the Arahants was that the oil lamps near the relics inside the womb of the pagoda should never extinguish until the end of the Gautama Buddha’s Dispensation. This vow is still believed to be active today.
Miracles Inside the Pagoda
Relics in the Posture of the Passing Buddha
Inside the womb of the Swarnamali Pagoda, the relics are arranged in a way that resembles the Buddha’s Parinibbana posture lying peacefully as he entered final liberation.
Only Deities Can Witness
These wonders are invisible to human eyes today. Only divine beings (Devas) can pass through the stupa’s walls to witness this sight. If one is reborn as a celestial being, they can behold this miracle directly.
Stories of Devotion and Protection
King Bhatiya’s Experience
History tells us about King Bhatiya, who once longed to see the sacred relics inside. His faith was so pure that celestial beings accompanied him through the walls of the stupa, allowing him to witness the relics. Inspired, he replicated what he saw inside and built representations outside for his disciples.
Naga World Connection
It is said that some relics and precious materials for the pagoda were brought from the Naga world. The Arahants used their powers to retrieve them, symbolizing the unity between human and divine realms in safeguarding the Dhamma.
The Foundation and Sacred Materials
The womb of the pagoda is filled with treasures beyond imagination:
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Gold, silver, gems, and rare stones transported even from the Himalayas.
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Illustrations and carvings depicting sacred stories.
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Ritual items offered with devotion by kings and noble families.
These treasures were not merely decorative they symbolized offerings of devotion to the Buddha, making the stupa a true womb of merit.
The Historical Significance of Swarnamali Pagoda
Built by King Dutugemunu
The Swarnamali Pagoda was built during the reign of King Dutugemunu (161–137 BCE), a legendary ruler of Sri Lanka. His devotion and determination made this colossal structure possible.
Anuradhapura’s Golden Age
At the time, Anuradhapura was flourishing as a center of Buddhist learning and culture. The pagoda became the jewel of the city and a beacon of Buddhism across Asia.
Why Visiting the Pagoda Equals Seeing the Buddha Alive
When devotees worship at Swarnamali Pagoda, they are essentially paying homage to the Buddha himself. The immense number of relics enshrined here generates the same merit as bowing before the living Supreme Teacher.
For Buddhists, this makes Ruwanwelisaya a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage site, equal in value to seeing the Enlightened One face-to-face.
Practical Devotion at the Pagoda
Offerings of Flowers and Food
Pilgrims bring lotus flowers, jasmine, and milk rice (Kiribath or Khirapayasa) to offer at the pagoda. The act of offering symbolizes purity, gratitude, and reverence.
Touching the Foundation
Some devotees gently place their hands on the foundation of the pagoda, imagining that they are touching the living body of the Buddha. In their hearts, they offer their lives and aspirations to the Enlightened One.
Sharing Merits
After worship, Buddhists share the merits they have gained with deities, relatives, and all beings, creating harmony across human and spiritual realms.
A Destination for All the World
No matter where you live, you can travel to Sri Lanka to see Swarnamali Pagoda. With modern flights, it may take only a few days to reach Anuradhapura and experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Visitors are encouraged to meditate, offer flowers, light lamps, and reflect on the Buddha’s teachings. This sacred journey nourishes both heart and soul.
The Living Legacy of Swarnamali Pagoda
The Swarnamali Pagoda is not a relic of the past it is a living, breathing center of Buddhist devotion. Its lamps still burn, its relics still radiate blessings, and its story still inspires millions.
This sacred stupa reminds us that even in today’s modern world, the Supreme Buddha remains alive in spirit, guiding those who seek peace, compassion, and enlightenment.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss the Chance
To visit the Swarnamali Pagoda is to meet your Supreme Teacher alive in spirit. It is a chance to bow before relics that embody his presence, to collect boundless merit, and to connect with miracles that continue even today.
Offer flowers, milk rice, and your pure devotion. Share your merits with loved ones and unseen deities. Speak your heart to the Buddha, release your burdens, and set your intentions.
This is not just a visit it is an eternal connection. If life gives you even one chance to stand before Swarnamali Pagoda, seize it with gratitude.
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Namo Buddhaya!
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