The World’s First Biography of the Buddha

❖ The World’s First Biography of the Buddha ❖

~ A series of bas-relief stone carvings predating Buddha images ~

In India there are bas-relief stone carvings of the Buddha’s biography which date back to an early period. They were created between 300 and 600 years after the passing of the Buddha, and were discovered at three landmarks: Bharhut Stupa in Northern India, Sanchi Stupas in Central India, and Amaravati Stupas in Southern India. These stone carvings were created not with images of the Buddha, but with symbolisms that represent the Buddha’s teachings: the absence of his image in the scenes, the footprints, the swastika, the fire pillar, and the triratna – the ancient symbol of the Triple Gem.

Buddhadasa found these stone-carved images extremely interesting and significant. After carrying out research and visiting India in 1955, he started to create five sets of replicas at Suan Mokkhabalarama Monastery, Chaiya, in Surat Thani Province. The Sculpture Hall was built and ten monks worked on the replicas, enlarging the many images that had been collected, including those sent from the British Museum in London. They were carved in three-dimensional bas-relief on clay and cast in cement.

One set is on display at the Spiritual Theatre of Suan Mokkhabalarama. Another set was given to Wat U-mong in Chiang Mai, and three sets are kept in the living quarters and the Sculpture Hall at Suan Mokkhabalarama. Some images relating to the Birth, growth, self-practice, Enlightenment, teachings, and the Great Decease of the Buddha are on display at the Buddhadasa Indapanno Archives. These help us learn about the life of the Buddha, which was filled with purity, wisdom, and loving compassion. They also reflect the ability of people in the early days of Buddhism to understand and focus on the true meaning of Dhamma rather than material objects such as Buddha statues.

Buddhism teaches us to not become attached to objects, people, or a self. Therefore, we must not cling to Buddha images forged in various styles as objects of worship and neglect the teachings of the Buddha, which focus on developing self-awareness and wisdom. It is unfortunate that in recent times Buddha images have overshadowed the Dhamma and the Buddha.

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Text from the book "Biography of the Buddha in Stone Bas-Reliefs” with explanation of pictures by Buddhadāsa Bhikkhu

Photograph from the Buddhadāsa Indapañño Archives collection

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“Spiritual Theater in the City” is a series of weekly posts on the paintings and sculptures exhibited at the Buddhadāsa Indapañño Archives, Bangkok.

To discover other teachings by Buddhadāsa Bhikkhu, please visit:
www.bia.or.th/en  and  www.suanmokkh.org