The beginning of it all Mahabodi Temple-part-1

The beginning of it all Mahabodi Temple

Sumit Kundra

The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, at the heart of Bodhgaya, is considered to be one of the four important holy sites related to the life of the Buddha. Its association with the enlightenment of the Buddha, perhaps, makes it the most revered site for followers of Buddhism all over the world.

History

It is believed that the first templewas built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC.

Later, a new temple, dating around 5th or 6th century AD was built over the original structure. Chinese Buddhist monk Fa-Hienreferenced about the temple and the Bodhi tree during his visit to India in 4th century AD. Celebrated Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang, who visited Bodhgaya in 637 AD, also mentioned about the walls surrounding the Bodhi tree. It is stated that the present temple may date back to the 6th century AD.

Structure

The temple complex comprises of the 50 metre high grand temple, the sacred Bodhi tree, the Vajrasana, and six other sacred sites related to theBuddha’senlightenment. These are surrounded by numerous ancient votive stupas. Another sacred place, the lotus pond is situated outside the complex.

The entire temple area, including the lotus pond, is surrounded by circulating passages, often two or three levels high.

The sanctum of the main temple has a lofty pancharatha sikhara of a straight-edged pyramidal design. It is further divided into seven storeys by bhumi-amalakas.

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