Nestled in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, stands a tree that has outlived kingdoms, witnessed centuries of change, and continues to inspire millions of pilgrims each year. Known as the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, this sacred fig tree is more than just a botanical wonder it is the oldest historically documented tree in the world.
A Living Link to the Buddha
The origins of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya go back over 2,300 years. Historical chronicles record that it was brought from Bodh Gaya in India, the very site where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment as the Buddha. The sapling was brought to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE by Sanghamitta Theri, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka of India, during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa.
Planting the tree was not just a symbolic act. It marked the deep cultural and spiritual bond between India and Sri Lanka, and it became a cornerstone of Buddhist practice on the island.
Why It Matters Today
What sets the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya apart from other ancient trees is its continuous record in history. Unlike many natural wonders that are dated through scientific estimates, this tree has been mentioned in royal chronicles, inscriptions, and religious texts for over two millennia. That makes it the world’s oldest living tree with a known planting date.
For Buddhists, the tree represents a living connection to the Enlightenment of the Buddha. For historians and botanists, it is living evidence of how culture, religion, and ecology can intertwine in ways that endure far longer than empires or monuments.
Pilgrimage and Devotion
Even today, thousands of devotees gather under its shade, tying white cloths, offering flowers, and lighting oil lamps. The rituals may vary, but the reverence remains the same: a deep respect for both the natural world and the spiritual heritage it embodies.
A Tree That Outlasted Kingdoms
The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya has survived invasions, political upheavals, and natural disasters. Special caretaking practices such as protective walls and regular rituals have ensured its survival. This extraordinary level of protection reflects not just the tree’s sacred value but also Sri Lanka’s ability to preserve living heritage through generations.
More Than Just a Tree
Standing in front of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, one feels the weight of centuries. It is not merely a tree but a reminder of continuity of faith, history, and the enduring power of nature. In a world where so much is fleeting, this ancient tree tells us that some roots run deeper than time itself.
