Pradakṣiṇā: Universal Truth of Buddhist Conception;
with Special Reference to the Symbolism of Buddhist Stūpas in Myanmar

Abstract
This paper delves into the universal tradition of pradakṣiṇā, the practice of clockwise circumambulation, in Buddhism and Hinduism. It explores the significance of pradakṣiṇā in Buddhism, particularly in connection to the symbolism of Buddhist stūpas in Myanmar.
Pradakṣiṇā involves the clockwise movement around sacred objects, guided by the daily path of the sun. In both Brahmanic and Buddhist traditions, the sun represents the Supreme Principle and the transcendent center of the universe. The orientation of the stūpa plan is determined by reference to the movements of the sun; the plan is a geometric diagram of the solar cycle; its axes locate the successive positions of the sun’s course.
Buddhist stūpas hold deep roots in Buddhist cosmology, symbolizing the path to enlightenment and Buddhahood. The clockwise nature is reflected not only in the signs associated with the Buddha but also in the sermons he preached. The Āṭānāṭiya Sutta and Mahāsamaya Sutta, delivered by the Buddha himself, mention specific cardinal points and the deities associated with them: Dhataraṭṭha Deva stays in the East, Virūḷhaka Deva in the South, Virūpakkha Deva in the West and Kuvera Deva in the North. Within the framework of Buddhist cosmology, the Catu-lokapālas are the four guardian nat devas responsible for safeguarding the world from the four cardinal points.
Additionally, when constructing a stūpa, there are Four Enlightened Buddhas positioned in cardinal points: Kakusanda in the East, Konagamana in the South, Kassapa in the West, and Gautama in the North, all following the clockwise direction. Through the exploration of the practice of pradakṣiṇā and the symbolism of Buddhist stūpas in Myanmar, this paper aims to shed light on the universal truth of Buddha and the importance of this practice for Buddhist devotees around the world. By gaining a deeper understanding of these practices and their significance, we can gain a greater appreciation for the richness and diversity of Buddhist culture and spirituality.
Key words: Pradakṣiṇā, Universal truth, clockwise circumambulation, symbolism, daily path of the sun, Buddhist cosmology, cardinal points
Four Buddha statues set up in four shrines or niches of stūpa: Kakusanda facing in the East, Konagamana facing in the South, Kassapa facing in the West, and Gautama facing in the North by the clockwise direction. Presented at the International Buddhist Conference in Celebration of the Silver Jubilee, the 25th Anniversary of International Theravāda Buddhist Missionary University Yangon, Myanmar, 7 December 2023