I embarked on my research journey not for fame or recognition, but out of deep reverence for the Buddha and a sincere desire to understand the true legacy of His sacred relics. My focus turned to the Buddha’s tooth relics, particularly because they are so widely venerated in the Theravāda world, yet rarely mentioned in the Early Buddhist Texts (EBT) — a fact that became both the starting point and the struggle of my scholarly path.
Indeed, the EBTs only reference four canine teeth (danta or dāṭhādhātu) of the Buddha. These are traditionally said to have been distributed shortly after His Parinibbāna. Yet the exact textual origins of this tradition are not firmly established within the most ancient strata of the canon. This discrepancy ignited my quest: If only four teeth are recorded, what about the many other "tooth relics" venerated across the world today?
With this question, I stepped into contested territory — where faith, tradition, and scholarship often do not align.
I approached senior and highly respected monks from Myanmar and across the globe. I laid before them my findings with humility. But to many, my research was troubling. It raised difficult questions about relic authenticity, canonical support, and long-held beliefs. Some declined to even review the evidence. Others warned me not to proceed further. The challenge was not just intellectual — it was deeply emotional and spiritual. I felt the weight of questioning relics that have inspired centuries of devotion.
Yet, in the midst of these rejections, I found clarity in the Buddha’s own teachings. The Kālāma Sutta (AN 3.65) became a guiding light for me. The Blessed One advises the people of Kālāma:
"Do not go by oral tradition, by lineage of teaching, by hearsay, by scriptural authority... but when you know for yourselves: ‘These things are unwholesome, blameworthy, and lead to harm,’ then you should abandon them."
This was not a call to reject tradition—but an invitation to inquire with wisdom and courage. I took this to heart. My research was not meant to destroy faith, but to refine understanding, to separate that which is historically supported from that which has evolved through time.
I also recognized that my role was not to attack veneration, but to build a bridge between devotion and discernment. As a monk and researcher, I strive to walk the middle path — not clinging blindly to tradition, nor dismissing sacred belief without empathy.
There were times I was alone in this journey. I carried questions no one wanted to ask, and faced answers no one wanted to hear. But I believe that truth, when pursued with humility and love, does not divide — it liberates. Slowly, a few kind-hearted scholars and spiritual teachers began to listen. Some offered cautious support, others encouraged me to continue.
Eventually, I was able to publish Custodians of the Buddha’s Sacred Relics Vol. 1, not as a definitive statement, but as a humble offering — a beginning for deeper dialogue.
To my fellow seekers of Dhamma, I offer this reflection: if your path leads you into conflict between scriptural truth and cultural tradition, remember that the Buddha Himself did not demand blind belief. He taught us to investigate, to reflect, and to honor the Dhamma through direct knowledge.
In this spirit, I continue my research — for the benefit of future generations who may walk more freely on the path of clarity, compassion, and truth.
By Bhikkhu Indasoma Siridantamahāpālaka (Sao Dhammasami)
Author of Custodians of the Buddha’s Sacred Relics Vol. 1: ✨ Discover the Legacy of Sacred Treasures ✨
Note: As the author of this article, I am an ordinary young monk sharing my personal experiences as they truly happened. This writing is based on official data management sources from my office, as well as documented reports and accounts. I have no intention of harming anyone’s dignity or reputation, and I sincerely apologize if including their names causes any unintended discomfort or concern.
I wish to make it clear that this work does not aim to defame, misrepresent, or cause any damage to any individual or group. It is intended solely to share my personal experiences and the facts as documented in my records. I deeply respect everyone mentioned and humbly seek their understanding.
