The Life of Buddha : Story of Birth

The story of the Buddha’s birth is one of divine grace, auspicious signs, and timeless significance. Buddha was born in 623 BCE in the tranquil Lumbini grove, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in present-day Nepal. At Bodhisattva Travels, we invite you to explore this sacred story and visit the very places that mark the beginning of the Buddha’s incredible journey.

Lumbini: The Birthplace of the Buddha

Lumbini is not just a historical site; it is a living testament to the Buddha’s legacy. Surrounded by serene landscapes, it is the place where Queen Mahamaya gave birth to Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who later became the Buddha. King Suddhodhana, his father, was the ruler of Kapilvastu, while his mother was a princess of Devadaha.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lumbini continues to inspire pilgrims and seekers from around the globe.

The Divine Rules of the Buddha’s Birth

According to the Buddhist text Lalita Vistara, the Buddha’s birth was governed by divine rules and meticulous preparation:

1. The Resolution to Become a Buddha: In a previous life under Dipankara Buddha, Gotama (Bodhisattva) resolved to become a Buddha. After countless rebirths, he was reborn in Tushita heaven, waiting for the right moment to descend to Earth.
2. The Five Investigations: Before descending, Bodhisattva made five investigations to ensure the perfect conditions for his birth:
   • The right time
   • The right country
   • The right race
   • The right family
   • The right mother
3. The Chosen Parents: Bodhisattva selected King Suddhodhana and Queen Mahamaya of Kapilvastu as his parents for his final birth.
4. The Descent: At midnight, mindful and conscious, Bodhisattva entered Queen Mahamaya’s womb in the form of a six-tusked white elephant, a symbol of purity and wisdom. Four Gods came to protect Mahamaya from four directions. They ensured that no harm was caused to Bodhisattva or his mother by any human or superhuman beings. 

Mahamaya’s Dreams: Prophecies of Greatness

Queen Mahamaya experienced four prophetic dreams during her pregnancy, foretelling the greatness of her child:

1. A six-tusked silver-white elephant descended from heaven and entered her womb.
2. She rose above the Earth into the heavens.
3. She ascended a great rocky mountain.
4. A vast assembly of people bowed before her in reverence.

Based on her dreams, astrologers predicted that her child would either become a universal monarch or renounce the world to become an enlightened Buddha.

The Birth of the Buddha

As per Sakya tradition, Queen Mahamaya left Kapilvastu for her father’s kingdom, Devadaha, to give birth to her child. However, on the full moon day of Vaisakha (May-June) in 623 BCE, while passing through the Lumbini grove, she felt the pains of childbirth.

The Nativity Scene

• The Setting: In the heart of the Lumbini grove, near the sacred Pushkarini Pond, Queen Mahamaya bathed in the Sakya Pushakarini (a pond) which was situated at the center of the Lumbini grove and walked 25 steps north to a blooming Ashoka tree. Holding a branch for support, she gave birth to the Bodhisattva in a standing position. As per the divine rule when bodhisattva is born first the gods receive him and human beings receive him only after the gods.
• Divine Blessings: The newborn was pure and clean, unstained by any impurities. Streams of water—one cold and one warm—descended from the sky to bathe the mother and child.

The First Seven Steps and Proclamation

Immediately after his birth, the newborn Buddha stood firmly on his feet and took seven steps in the cardinal directions.

• North: Declaring his supremacy among all beings.
• West: Announcing that this would be his final birth.
• South: Proclaiming his role as the chief of the world.
• East: Declaring that he would achieve Nirvana and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

At each step, a lotus flower blossomed, symbolizing purity and enlightenment.

The Return to Kapilvastu and Siddhartha’s Naming Ceremony

Queen Mahamaya and her newborn returned to Kapilvastu, where they were welcomed with great celebration.

• The Naming Ceremony: On the fifth day after his birth, the child was named Siddhartha, meaning “Fulfillment of Every Wish.” He was also called Sarvarthsiddha for bringing prosperity and blessings to his family.
• Mahamaya’s Passing: Seven days after Siddhartha’s birth, Queen Mahamaya passed away and was reborn in Tushita heaven, as per divine rules. The young Bodhisattva was lovingly raised by his stepmother, Prajapati Gotami.

Sacred Pilgrimage Sites in Lumbini

Visiting Lumbini offers pilgrims the chance to walk in the footsteps of the Buddha. Key sites include:

1. The Sanctum Sanctorum

The exact spot of the Buddha’s birth, marked by a marker stone, was rediscovered during excavations of the ancient Maya Devi Temple. Emperor Ashoka placed this marker stone in 249 BCE to honor the Buddha’s birthplace.

2. Nativity Sculpture

Housed in the new Maya Devi Temple, this 4th-century BCE sculpture depicts Queen Mahamaya holding the branch of a sal tree, with her sister Prajapati and two Devas receiving the newborn Buddha.

3. The Ashokan Pillar

Erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE, the pillar stands 6.7 meters tall. Its inscription authenticates Lumbini as the birthplace of the Buddha. Originally, it had horse capital which was lost when a bolt of lightning struck the pillar and the pillar got broken into two parts.

4. Pushkarini Pond

Located near the Ashokan Pillar, this sacred pond is believed to be the same pond where Queen Mahamaya bathed before giving birth to the Buddha.

Why Visit Lumbini with Bodhisattva Travels?

At Bodhisattva Travels, we curate transformative Buddhist pilgrimage experiences, ensuring you connect deeply with the sacredness of Lumbini. Our services include:

• Guided tours with expert insights into the historical and spiritual significance of Lumbini.
• Meditation sessions at the holy sites to foster a sense of peace and enlightenment.
• Comfortable travel arrangements and accommodations for a stress-free journey.

Embark on Your Spiritual Journey Today

Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking spiritual growth and enlightenment. Step into the sacred grove, feel the divine energy, and walk in the footsteps of the Enlightened One.

Contact Bodhisattva Travels to plan your pilgrimage to Lumbini and other sacred Buddhist sites. Let us guide you on a journey of faith, mindfulness, and inner peace.