MAHABODHI TEMPLE - A MUST-VISIT DESTINATION FOR PEACE SEEKERS

Every piece of ancient Indian architecture has its own story, its history which is narrated by its walls and pieces of stones, that make up the monument. It’s the same in the case of the magnanimous Mahabodhi temple in Bihar that stands firm as an epitome of the Buddhist faith – the religion which is established on the idea of giving up worldly pleasures and walking on the path of inner peace and finding pleasure in inner wisdom and the spiritual echelon achieved through enlightenment. 

The Mahabodhi Temple is indeed a must-visit destination for peace seekers. Located in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, India, this ancient temple holds immense historical and spiritual significance.

Established in the 3rd century BC by Mauryan emperor Ashoka in central Bihar, Mahabodhi Temple is known as one of the four most prominent holy sites of Buddhism. This site is related to Lord Buddha, his life, and specifically his attainment of enlightenment. Mahabodhi temple is one of the earliest Buddhist temples built solely on bricks. It resembles the durable strength of brick architecture since the Gupta period due to its infallible build for centuries.

It is located on the banks of the Niranjana River in Bodh Gaya. The temple has a height of 180 feet and has a pyramidal top (shikhara). This whole architecture consists of nooks, arch motifs, and engravings.

The temple has four towers that look indistinguishable from the central tower but are relatively smaller in size. Each of them is capped with a dome-like structure and lays at the corners of the main edifice. A shrine inside the temple holds the statue of Buddha covered in glass.

The Central Path and Buddha's Enlightenment

The path on the eastern side of the temple has significant places including votive stupas and shrines surrounding that area. Each of these spots has events associated with various events that follow the Buddha’s enlightenment.

Bodhi Tree

One of the most sacred among these places is the Bodhi Tree located on the western side of the temple. This tree is gigantic and is supposed to be the direct descendant of the Bodhi Tree where Buddha had stayed for the first week of his enlightenment. On the northern side of the platform is a prayer hall known as Animeshlochan Chaitya where Buddha spent his second week.

 
Animeshlochan Chaitya Prayer Hall

His third week of enlightenment was spent in the area called Ratnachakrama (jewelled walking) where he walked eighteen paces back and forth. His steps have been marked by raised lotus stones. On the northeastern side of the park is Ratnaghar Chaitya where Buddha has spent his fourth week of enlightenment.

Ratnachakrama

Just after the east entrance of the central path, a pillar commemorates the site as Buddha's fifth week of enlightenment. It is known as the Ajapala Nigrodh Tree under which Buddha meditated during his fifth week, and heard the dilemma of Brahmans.

 

Ajapala Nigrodh Tree

His sixth week was spent next to the Lotus Pond and the seventh week was spent under the Rajyatana Tree. Vajrasana, the Diamond throne installed by Emperor Ashoka, is attached to the main temple next to the Bodhi tree.

Vajrasana (Diamond Throne):

Enlightenment Spot: The Vajrasana, also known as the Diamond Throne, marks the spot where Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment.

Ceremonial Platform: Pilgrims often offer prayers and perform rituals at this sacred spot.

 Lotus Pond

This platform is known as the Buddha’s meditation site. Formerly, a sandstone rail of stairs bordered this site under the Bodhi Tree, but now only some of the original pillars of the rail remain in place; on these pillars, there are carvings of engraved animals, human faces, and other details.

Moving ahead in the central path lies a small shrine on the southern side where there is a statue of Buddha standing in the back and has his footsteps (padas) carved on the black stone. These footprints date back to the 3rd century when Ashoka claimed Buddhism to be an independent religion. He laid similar footprints to celebrate it across the whole kingdom.

The main gateway of the temple which is on the central path was initially built by Ashoka but was later rebuilt by other kings coming to the region. Other than this, there are several Bodhisattvas and Buddha's idols on the path.

 

Meditation and Mindfulness:

Mahabodhi Temple is not only a place to see and admire, but also a place to meditate and experience. The temple offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and follow the footsteps of the Buddha. Here are some tips and insights on how to meditate and enjoy your experience at Mahabodhi Temple complex:

The meditation garden:

The meditation garden is a peaceful and serene area that is located behind the main temple. It has several benches and cushions where you can sit and meditate in silence.

Peaceful Atmosphere:

The serene surroundings and historical significance create an ideal environment for meditation and mindfulness.

Guided Meditation Sessions:

Some visitors participate in guided meditation sessions organized within the temple complex.

The fountains:

The fountains are small water jets that are located along the cloister walk that surrounds the main temple. They are meant to create a soothing sound and a cooling effect for meditators. You can sit near a fountain and listen to its gentle flow, or you can splash some water on your face or hands to refresh yourself.

Meditating at Mahabodhi Temple complex is a rewarding and enriching experience that can help you calm your mind, awaken your heart, and deepen your understanding of yourself and others. As one visitor from China said,

“Meditating at Mahabodhi Temple complex is like coming home to yourself. You feel the connection with the Buddha and his teachings, and you also feel the connection with all the beings who have come here before you and who will come here after you. You realize that you are not alone, but part of a larger community of seekers and learners”.

 
Cultural and Religious Harmony:

Global Pilgrimage Site:

Mahabodhi Temple attracts Buddhist pilgrims from around the world, fostering cultural and religious harmony.

Interfaith Dialogue:

The temple serves as a symbol of peaceful coexistence, promoting interfaith dialogue.

A Symbol of Peace:

The Mahabodhi Temple stands not only as a historical monument but also as a living symbol of peace and enlightenment.

Cultural Heritage:

It's an opportunity to connect with the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Buddhism.

Visiting the Mahabodhi Temple is not just a journey to a historical site; it's a pilgrimage for those seeking inner peace and spiritual awakening. The tranquil atmosphere, coupled with the rich cultural and religious heritage, makes it a truly transformative experience for peace seekers.

CONCLUSION:

Buddhism originated in India and its roots have been spreading across various Asian nations and have now been attracting western followers. The beliefs and ideology behind this religion are favoured by many. Attaining enlightenment is the biggest feat in Buddhism and thus Buddha's attainment of Nirvana (inner solace) is of great importance. The Mahabodhi Temple celebrates the seven-week enlightenment period of Lord Buddha with its great brick architecture from centuries ago. This site is the most revered site in Buddhist culture across the world. The temple is also regarded as a world heritage site by UNESCO and it’s also on the list of iconic tourist destinations declared by the government of India. As the site welcomes thousands of pilgrims every year, its infrastructure and public facilities are indeed a priority for the nation and government.