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Significance of Caitya

Caitya, in Tibetan Buddhism, refers to various types of memorial and sacred structures, primarily stupas or shrines that house relics and commemorate important figures and teachings. These structures are integral for veneration and serve as sites for offerings and worship. Notably, Caitya includes stupas built by significant figures such as Drapa Ngonsh茅 and the Dharmasvamin, symbolizing their commitment to Buddhism and spirituality. The term encompasses broader interpretations in other Buddhist traditions, indicating a space of worship and enlightenment.1
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Synonyms: Stupa, Shrine, Sacred place, Temple, Monument, Sanctum

In German: Caitya; In Finnish: Caitya; In Spanish: Caitya; In Swedish: Caitya; In Malay: Caitya; In French: Caitya; In Dutch: Kaitya

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Caitya'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Caitya encompasses various sacred structures like stupas and shrines, serving as memorials for relics, enlightenment, and significant figures, reflecting deep spiritual practices and veneration within the tradition.

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)

(1) A type of Buddhist shrine, often housing relics and serving as a place of worship.[1] (2) A stupa or mound used for worship, containing relics; representative of Buddhist architecture and veneration practices.[2] (3) A shrine or memorial to which ma gcig offered lamps and made offerings as expressions of reverence for her teacher.[3] (4) A shrine or stupa built by the Dharmasvamin, representing his commitment to spirituality and memorialization after death.[4] (5) A stupa or commemorative monument in Buddhist tradition, often built to honor a significant person or event.[5]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha鈥檚 words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Avatamsaka Sutra (flower adornment sutra)鈥擯reface

(1) A term referring to a sacred site, often associated with the achievement of enlightenment or realization.[6]

From: 础产丑颈诲丑补谤尘补办辞艣补

(1) A type of Buddhist structure, often associated with merit and offerings.[7]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

The concept of Caitya in local and regional sources

History Books

Caitya pertains to Buddhist cave temples and prayer halls, showcasing their architectural influence on early Christian churches and their role as significant cultural and communal worship spaces within Buddhism.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) Buddhist cave temples which inspired early Christian church architecture, highlighting cultural influences.[8] (2) Buddhist prayer halls or temples typically featuring stupas, serving as places of worship and community gatherings.[9]

Plural form: Caityas.