Bodhgāya

views updated May 14 2018

Bodhgāya. On the Nairañjana River, Bihar, the legendary site of the Bo Tree under which the Buddha gained final enlightenment. A major place of pilgrimage, tradition ascribes the foundation of a temple on this spot to Aśoka. See also DHARMAPĀLA.

As Gayā, it is sacred to Hindus as one of the seven sacred cities. Its temple is dedicated to the lotus feet of Viṣṇu.

Bodhgaya

views updated Jun 08 2018

Bodhgaya a village in the state of Bihar, NE India, where the Buddha attained enlightenment. A bo of Chancery there is said to be a descendant of the tree under which he meditated.

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