The Sri Maha Bodhi tree, located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, holds the distinction of being the oldest tree in the world with a documented history. This sacred fig tree (Ficus religiosa) has been protected and worshipped for over 2,300 years, making it a significant cultural, religious, and historical landmark.
A Sacred Gift from India
The Sri Maha Bodhi tree is a direct descendant of the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, under which Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. In the 3rd century BCE, Emperor Ashoka of India, a devoted follower of Buddhism, sent a cutting of the tree to Sri Lanka as a gift. This sacred sapling was brought by Ashoka’s daughter, Sanghamitta Theri, a Buddhist nun, and was planted in Anuradhapura in 288 BCE by King Devanampiya Tissa, one of Sri Lanka’s first Buddhist rulers.
A Living Symbol of Buddhism
Since its planting, the Sri Maha Bodhi tree has been a focal point of Buddhist worship in Sri Lanka. Devotees believe that paying homage to the tree brings blessings, protection, and spiritual merit. Every year, thousands of pilgrims visit the site to offer prayers, flowers, and oil lamps.
Protection and Conservation
Recognizing its importance, Sri Lankan kings and Buddhist monks have safeguarded the tree for centuries. It has been continuously tended to, making it the oldest known tree in the world to have received such long-term care and protection. Historical records document various kings constructing protective barriers and irrigation systems to ensure the tree’s well-being.
In modern times, the tree is carefully maintained by the Sri Lankan government and Buddhist clergy. Measures have been taken to protect it from environmental threats, and a golden fence surrounds the tree to prevent damage.
Surviving the Test of Time
Despite its long history, the Sri Maha Bodhi tree has faced challenges, including natural disasters and human threats. In 1985, during the Sri Lankan Civil War, the site was attacked by extremists, causing damage to the area, but the tree survived.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Anuradhapura, where the Sri Maha Bodhi tree stands, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich historical and religious significance. The ancient city is home to many other Buddhist monuments, including stupas, monasteries, and sacred ponds.
The Legacy of Sri Maha Bodhi
The Sri Maha Bodhi tree is not just a historical artifact; it remains a vital part of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist culture. It serves as a symbol of peace, enlightenment, and resilience. As the world’s oldest tree with a recorded history, it continues to inspire millions, reminding them of the deep spiritual and historical roots of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
