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Bodhi Tree

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A direct clone descendant of the Bodhi tree which Buddha sat under for inspiration, on display at Foster Botanical Garden in Honolulu Hawaii

The Bodhi or Bo or Peepul tree (Ficus religiosa), is a species of fig (Family Moraceae) and a sacred tree for Buddhists. The most famous Bodhi tree is located about 100 km (60 miles) from Patna in the Indian state of Bihar, under which Gautama Buddha, spiritual teacher and founder of Buddhism, arrived at Bodhi (lit. supreme knowledge, enlightenment).

The tree near Patna is a frequent tourist destination for pilgrims since it is next to the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya, one of four holy sites to Buddhists. It was while meditating under this tree (mentioned as Assattha in the Tipitaka) that Siddhartha Gautama achieved Nirvana. Therefore, the Bodhi tree or tree of wisdom is considered sacred and symbolic to Buddhists.

Other sacred bodhi trees include the Sri Maha Bodhi in Sri Lanka.

The leaves of this tree are somewhat unusual, being cordate in shape with a distinctive extended (or caudate) tip.

See also: List of Buddhist topics

This tree has considerable significance in Hindu religion and has been worshipped by Hindus for centuries.

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