Bodhi tree
Topic: Buddhism, Jainism and Heterodox Traditions · NCERT: Class 12, Ch 4 "Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings"
Meaning
The Bodhi tree is the pipal tree at Bodh Gaya, in present-day Bihar, under which Siddhārtha meditated and attained enlightenment. After this he became the Buddha, "the Awakened One". "Bodhi" means awakening. The tree became one of Buddhism's most sacred symbols. This also fits an older Indian custom of treating special trees as sacred places.
Example
In early Buddhist sculpture, as at Sanchi, artists did not show the Buddha in human form. Instead they used symbols for him. An empty seat shows his meditation, and a tree stands for his enlightenment. Carved scenes show people worshipping such a tree.
Don't confuse with
- Chaitya: a chaitya is an older, general kind of sacred spot, often with a special tree or rock and a small shrine. The Bodhi tree is one particular tree, linked to the Buddha's enlightenment.
Related concepts
- Gautama Buddha
- Sakya clan
- Kapilavastu
- Lumbini
- Great Departure
- Bodh Gaya
- Mahabodhi Temple
- Kushinagar
- Mahaparinibbana Sutta
- Piprahwa relics