Building a Stupa at Pine Mountain Temple
The Lotus Sutra describes how a precious Stupa arises wherever the Bodhisattva Vows are taught and practiced.
Inside the Stupa is a Buddha, who voices his appreciation and encouragement.
Building a Stupa is an expression of devotion and an excellent way to make merit. It shows our sincerity to practice for the sake of all living things.
We invite you to help with this project by making a tax deductible donation to our building fund.
Please make checks payable to Pine Mountain Buddhist Temple.
Originally a stupa was a monument over the mortal remains of Shakyamuni Buddha or other holy persons. However, stupas also served as a reminder of other decisive events in the life of Shakyamuni, thus there are stupas at Lumbini, Bodhgaya, Kusinagara, Sarnath, etc. Not every stupa contains relics in the proper sense, in their place sacred texts and representations are also enshrined, which confer their sacredness to the stupa. It is not however, the contents of the stupa that are venerated, rather, the stupa itself serves a support for meditation and a reminder of the awakened state of mind. (from the Shambhala Dictionary of Buddhism and Zen)
There is great merit in building a Stupa, and also in seeing or walking around one in meditation. It may not be possible to put into words why this is so, but many people have an intuitive sense of it. When we look at a building or statue that was made in the past, we are inspired and touched by the devotion, energy and dedication that are present, and think of it as a holy place. This inspiration does not last long, unless we ourselves let it redirect our lives and use it to strengthen our practice. In this manner there is a continuous stream of merit, flowing from generation to generation and helping all beings to look up and be reminded that there is something greater than our day to day ups and downs.
Sometimes it is good to be practical and sensible, doing things such as upgrading our guest accommodations, and at other times it is good to make a gesture of pure faith and do something that has no immediate measurable value in the eyes of the world. This is why we hope to build a stupa, and invite everyone to make a contribution either financially or in the actual construction. To do so will support the practice of Buddhism and increase our own blessings and wisdom. Many consider it an honor and a joy to share in the merit of such a project.
Project Update, March, 2008
Construction of the stupa began on February 29, as Rev. Seikai dug the footings for the foundation. After two weeks of work by the three Pine Mountain monks and several lay members who pitched in while at the temple, we were ready to pour the footings and foundation—in one cement pour of 8 cubic yards of concrete. The Ventura County building inspector gave us the green light, and the concrete was poured on March 14. We have considered this a big milestone in the project, as it has been over a year since we initiated the process of acquiring a building permit with the county. Although we were issued a permit in late 2007, winter weather prevented us from actually breaking ground and beginning construction.
We wish to thank all who have contributed to our Stupa building fund; costs have far exceeded our original estimate of $11,000, and to date we have spent close to $15,000. Donations to our Building Fund would be much appreciated, as we are still in the early stages of construction and will have many more expenses.
The technical and engineering aspects of how to construct the stupa have been resolved, and the three monks anticipate being able to complete the work during the course of 2008. A surround of paving stones and a low retaining wall will complete the circular stupa site.
Cement forms ready to accept concrete. 14 March, 2008
Concrete on its way down the chute.
In mid-pour.
Our neighbor, Bo Forsell, is an old hand at concrete work. His assistance with the pour was greatly appreciated. Rev. Leon, left, and Rev. Master Phoebe, right, help with leveling.