Varanasi in the Time of Buddha: Tracing the Footsteps of the Enlightened One

Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and its history can be traced back to the time of Buddha, over 2500 years ago. The city played a significant role in the life and teachings of Buddha, and many of the sites associated with him can still be visited today.

In this post, we will explore the history of Varanasi in the time of Buddha and trace the footsteps of the Enlightened One.

The Life of Buddha

Buddha, also known as Siddhartha Gautama, was born in the 6th century BCE in Lumbini, which is now part of Nepal. He was the son of a king and was raised in luxury, shielded from the outside world. However, at the age of 29, he left his palace and set out to find the meaning of life. He spent several years studying with various teachers and practicing extreme asceticism, but he did not find the answers he was looking for.

Eventually, Buddha realized that the path to enlightenment lay not in extreme asceticism but in the Middle Way, a balanced approach to life. He sat under a Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, a city in Bihar, and meditated until he achieved enlightenment. He spent the rest of his life traveling and teaching others about his insights.

Varanasi in the Time of Buddha

Varanasi was an important city in the time of Buddha, and it was a center of learning and culture. It was also an important religious center, and many people came to the city to seek spiritual enlightenment. Buddha visited Varanasi several times during his lifetime, and many of the sites associated with him can still be visited today.

Sarnath

Sarnath is a small town located about 10 kilometers from Varanasi. It is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists because it is where Buddha gave his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. The sermon, known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, or the Setting in Motion of the Wheel of Dharma, laid out the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which are the foundations of Buddhist philosophy.

The site of the sermon is now marked by the Dhamek Stupa, a large, cylindrical structure that is more than 40 meters tall. The stupa was built in the 5th century CE and is one of the oldest and most well-preserved Buddhist monuments in India. Visitors can also see the ruins of several monasteries and temples at Sarnath, including the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, which was built in the 3rd century BCE.

Rajgir

Rajgir is a city located in the eastern Indian state of Bihar, about 200 kilometers from Varanasi. It was an important city in the time of Buddha and was the site of several important events in his life. For example, it was where he gave the Fire Sermon, one of his most famous sermons, which is believed to have been attended by thousands of people.

Rajgir is also the site of the Gridhakuta Hill, or Vulture Peak, which is where Buddha delivered many of his teachings. The hill is named after the vultures that used to perch on its cliffs, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can also see several other important Buddhist sites in Rajgir, including the Japanese temple and the Jain temple.

Kapilavastu

Kapilavastu is a city located in present-day Nepal, about 250 kilometers from Varanasi. It was the capital of the Shakya kingdom and was the birthplace of Buddha. While the city itself is no longer standing, visitors can see the remains of the palace where Buddha grew up and the Ashoka Pillar, which was erected in the 3rd century BCE and marks the spot where Buddha was born.

Varanasi City

Finally, visitors to Varanasi can explore the city itself and see several important Buddhist sites. For example, the Sarnath Museum houses a collection of Buddhist artifacts, including sculptures, coins, and inscriptions. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in India, is also located in Varanasi, and visitors can see several Buddhist temples and monasteries in the city.

Final remarks

Varanasi was an important city in the time of Buddha, and many of the sites associated with him can still be visited today. From Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon, to Rajgir, where he delivered many of his teachings, visitors can trace the footsteps of the Enlightened One and gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy and history. Whether you are a devout Buddhist or simply interested in history and culture, a visit to Varanasi is a must-see destination.