The Maha Bohdi Tree in Mahamewna Gardens at Anuradhapura is one of the most sacred site in Sri Lanka. The sacred fig tree was grown from the original sapling branched from the one in Bodhgaya under which Lord Buddha attained the enlightenment. Being recorded in the history for more than 2000 years, the holy tree shinning with glory, is considered the oldest living tree in the world. The tree standing on the platform winded round with golden railing and festooned with prayer flags, has become one of the most important pilgrimage site for all Buddhists, local and abroad. Everyday, thousands of devotees come to make offering particularly during weekends or full moon days.
Buddhism was introduced and rapidly favored by Sinhalese people in 3rd century BC after Mahinda Thera, the son of the great devoted Indian Emperor King Ashoka, converted ancient King of Sri Lanka Devanamplyatissa (306-266BC) into a Buddhist disciple. In order to show his patronage, Ashoka sent his daughter Princess Sanghamitra to bring a branch of sacred Bodhi Tree obtained from the main stem of the original plant where Lord Buddha attained the enlightenment in Bodhgaya to the island. King Tissa received it and planted in his royal park Maha Meghavana Udyanaya in Anuradhapura. The holy tree has been at the present site since it was planted in year 288 BC.
The sacred tree was highly respected and was effortlessly preserved and protected by pious people. When the old capital city of Anuradhapura was invaded by enemies, abandoned and deserted with jungles, village devotees were the tenders to the tree. They lit bone fires with collected firewood to frighten away the wild elephants. Collection of firewood turned into a habit and gradually developed into the possession festival of Daramiti Perahara in the island. Today, the sacred tree is continuously looked after but by special tree guards.
The Bodhi Tree faced two serious vandalism in its livelihood. It happened once in year 1929 when a mad guy tried to chop off the tree but managed to cut off a branch of it. Second time happened in year 1985 when the holy ground of the Bodhi Tree was attacked by Tamil Terrorists. More than 100 were killed and many were wounded in the incident but the tree remained unharmed.
The stone guards and moonstones are the common features in all religious sites of Sri Lanka.
The sacred Bodhi Tree is housed within Temple Mahavihara.
The Temple where Maha Bodhi Tree dwells has become a highly venerated and historical place of worship.
Flower offerings
Herbs, rice and fragrant Sal flowers are also among the offerings.
No comments:
Post a Comment