Unduwap Poya Impacts Of Planting The Siri Maha Bodhiya

Buddhist temples as a result sprang in these locations with monks moving into them and the Bodhiya cherished as a priceless treasure, became a symbol of the presence of the Buddha

- Rajitha Weerakoon

Sanghamitta Theri however, arrived in Sri Lanka towards the establishment of the Bhikkuni Order which resulted in the elevation of the status of women who while spreading the Doctrine, played a significant role in society as literate and socially conscious women (Pic AFP)

It was just two weeks ago that we saw the firm stand taken by the custodians of the Jaya Siri Maha Bodhiya against a so-called anti-virus herbal syrup being taken to its upper precincts for whatever the reason. This hallowed Tree has been protected by the Kings and the Sangha for over two thousand years, through times of invasions, foreign rule, famines and epidemics.

The Tree grown from the Bo sapling – a right branch of the Sacred Bodhi Tree under which Gautama Buddha attained Enlightenment, was sent by Emperor Asoka through his daughter Sanghamitta Theri who arrived in Sri Lanka on a Unduwap Pasalosvaka Full Moon Poya day in 236 BCE.

This was six months following the visit of Emperor’s son Arahant Mahinda who introduced the doctrine, making the Sangha Sasana as part of the legacy towards the propagation of the Dhamma. The planting of the Bo sapling thereafter, signified the Buddhist Doctrine taking root in Sri Lanka.

Sanghamitta Theri however, arrived in Sri Lanka towards the establishment of the Bhikkuni Order which resulted in the elevation of the status of women who while spreading the Doctrine, played a significant role in society as literate and socially conscious women.