What is the significance of the Sri Maha Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura?
3 Answers
The Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura is believed to be a direct cutting from the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya India under which Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. The cutting was brought to Sri Lanka by the Venerable Sanghamitta Theri in 288 BCE during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa. This makes it the oldest historically authenticated tree in the entire world with an unbroken recorded history of over two thousand three hundred years.
When visiting you must dress modestly in white or light colored clothing with shoulders and knees completely covered. Remove shoes and hats well before approaching the inner sanctum. Photography is allowed in the outer areas but strictly forbidden near the sacred tree itself. Bring a lotus flower offering which you can buy from vendors outside for around one hundred and fifty rupees.
The tree is venerated by millions of Buddhists worldwide and attracts especially large crowds during full moon poya days when thousands of white clad devotees gather to meditate, chant, and offer flowers beneath its branches. The atmosphere during these gatherings is profoundly peaceful and deeply spiritual. The tree is surrounded by gold plated railings and a raised platform built by ancient kings to protect its sacred roots.
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