Bodh Gaya Tree
The original tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, symbolizing awakening.
Origins
The Bodhi Tree at Bodh Gaya (India) is the site where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. It is revered as the most sacred tree in Buddhist tradition.
Lineage Trees
Anuradhapura Sri Maha Bodhi
Planted in 288 BCE from a branch of the Bodh Gaya tree, brought by Sanghamitta Theri. It is the oldest historically documented tree in the world.
Other Descendants
Branches and saplings were planted across Asia, including Thailand, Myanmar, and China, symbolizing the spread of Dharma.
Symbolic Meaning
The Bodhi Tree lineage represents continuity of enlightenment and Dharma. Each descendant tree is a living reminder of the Buddha’s awakening and the transmission of wisdom across cultures.
Sources and Further Reading
The Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura is considered the most sacred living link to the Buddha’s enlightenment.