The teachings on the analysis of actions and their effects, known as Karmavibhanga, hold a prominent place in the Buddhist tradition, as evidenced by the numerous manuscripts preserved across Central Asia, China, and South Asia. At Candi Borobudur in Central Java, Indonesia, the Karmavibhanga is vividly illustrated through 160 narrative relief panels on the ground level of this magnificent stupa monument. These intricately carved panels, comprising over 400 distinct scenes accompanied by some epigraphical inscriptions, provide a comprehensive depiction of the Karmavibhanga’s themes. The carvings are further validated by a diverse array of manuscripts spanning across centuries and regions, including Chinese texts from the late third or early fourth century to the 11th century CE, Sanskrit manuscripts from Nepal dating from the 11th to 17th centuries CE, Tibetan sources from the eighth to ninth centuries CE, and additional manuscripts from Sogdian, Kucha, Khotan, and Tochari. The series of carvings illuminate 54 specific themes of actions and their corresponding retributions, alongside various practices for cultivating ethical conduct. While rooted in Buddhist sutras, the depictions are rich with vernacular and local artistic expressions, offering a unique cultural dimension to their presentation. As an integral part of Borobudur’s pedagogical structure, these narrative reliefs not only convey ethical principles but also serve as a foundational guide for progressing through the monument's successive advancing levels, leading toward spiritual full awakening.

Authors:
So Tju Shinta Lee, Independent Scholar, Indonesia

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. So Tju Shinta Lee is currently an independent researcher on Borobudur and Muarajambi Temples with research interest on ancient Buddhist sites, iconographies, literatures, and philosophy.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/so-tju-shinta-lee-2b703660/

See this presentation on the full schedule – Friday Schedule

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