The Maya Devi Temple, located in Lumbini, Nepal, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Buddhism. It marks the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The temple is an archaeological and spiritual marvel, attracting devotees, historians, and tourists from around the world.
Historical Significance
The Maya Devi Temple is dedicated to Queen Maya Devi, the mother of Buddha. According to Buddhist tradition, Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Prince Siddhartha in 623 BCE while holding onto a branch of a sal tree in the sacred Lumbini Garden. It is believed that soon after birth, the infant took seven steps and declared his final rebirth. This site was later honored by Emperor Ashoka of India, who built an inscribed pillar here in 249 BCE, confirming Lumbini as the birthplace of Buddha.
Architectural Features
The present-day Maya Devi Temple is built over ancient ruins, which include a sandstone relief depicting Queen Maya Devi giving birth. Archaeological excavations have revealed the remains of older temples, dating back to the 3rd century BCE, along with the exact spot of Buddha’s birth, marked by a stone marker.
Inside the temple, pilgrims can see the sanctum containing the ancient Nativity Sculpture, depicting Maya Devi, her attendants, and the newborn Buddha. The temple is surrounded by a sacred pond, known as Puskarini, where Queen Maya Devi is believed to have bathed before giving birth. Nearby, the Ashokan Pillar, with inscriptions in Brahmi script, stands as historical evidence of Lumbini’s Buddhist heritage.
Spiritual and Cultural Importance
The Maya Devi Temple is the holiest site in Lumbini, attracting thousands of pilgrims every year. Devotees meditate and chant around the temple, paying homage to Lord Buddha. The temple is part of the Lumbini Development Zone, which includes monasteries built by various Buddhist countries, promoting peace and harmony.
In 1997, UNESCO declared Lumbini a World Heritage Site, to guarantee the preservation of this sacred location. The temple remains a symbol of Buddhist philosophy, emphasizing peace, wisdom, and enlightenment.
For Buddhists and history lovers alike, a visit to Maya Devi Temple is a profound journey into the origins of one of the world’s greatest spiritual traditions.
Picture credit: Goddard_Photography, sansubba, Casper1774Studio
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