Bodhi tree
|
|
The Bodhi tree was a large and very old specimen of Sacred Fig, located at the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya, about 100 km (60 miles) from Patna in the Indian state of Bihar, under which Gautama Buddha, spiritual teacher and founder of Buddhism, arrived at Bodhi (lit. supreme knowledge, enlightenment). It is a sacred tree for Buddhists. It was while meditating under this tree (mentioned as Assattha in the Tipitaka) that Siddhartha Gautama achieved Nirvana. Therefore, the Bodhi tree or tree of wisdom is considered sacred and symbolic to Buddhists.
The Sacred Fig currently growing at the Mahabodhi Temple is not the original specimen, but is very probably directly propagated from it. This tree is a frequent destination for pilgrims, being the most important of the four holy sites for Buddhists. It also has considerable significance in Hindu religion and has been worshipped by Hindus for centuries.
Another sacred specimen, also propagated from the original Bodhi tree, is the Sri Maha Bodhi in Sri Lanka, planted in 288 BC.
See also List of Buddhist topics
External link
- The Bodhi Tree (http://www.sacred-destinations.com/india/bodhi-tree-bodhgaya.htm) - Sacred Destinationsde:Pappelfeige