In 254 BC, the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya was destroyed by Tissarakkha, who was the queen of Ashoka, an emperor of the Maurya dynasty. Tissarakkha did not support Ashoka’s decision to embrace Buddhism, which led her to destroy the sacred tree.
Read a related post: Is there a 2000 year old tree?
It is important to note that this information is based on historical records and accounts. According to these accounts, Tissarakkha was against Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism and sought to undermine his newfound faith. One of her actions was to destroy the Bodhi tree, which held great significance in Buddhist tradition as it was believed to be the very tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
The destruction of the Bodhi tree was a significant event as it symbolized a powerful opposition to Ashoka’s Buddhist beliefs. However, despite this act of destruction, Ashoka’s devotion to Buddhism remained unshaken, and he continued to promote the teachings of the Buddha throughout his empire.
It is worth mentioning that the Bodhi tree was not completely obliterated; instead, it was severely damaged. According to historical accounts, the tree managed to heal and grow again after being damaged by Tissarakkha’s actions. Today, the present Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya is believed to be a descendant of the original tree, and it continues to be a revered symbol for Buddhists worldwide.
In conclusion, Tissarakkha, Ashoka’s queen, is said to have destroyed the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya due to her opposition towards Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism. However, the tree eventually grew back, and a descendant of the original tree stands at the site today, holding great importance in Buddhist tradition.