Publication Date
2019
Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
First Advisor
Raymond, Catherine
Degree Name
M.A. (Master of Arts)
Legacy Department
School of Art and Design
Abstract
This thesis examines the depiction of the Bodhi Tree, a common Buddhist symbol. Bodhi tree simply means tree of enlightenment and Buddha Shakyamuni reached enlightenment while in meditation beneath the particular tree species of ficus religiosa, or sacred fig. Though the sacred fig tree, as a native tree to India, has historically held significance, today it is principally known for its association with the Buddha, particularly his single most important life event, his enlightenment.
Tree worship and its universal practice is well understood and many studies of the Bodhi Tree explore its associated pilgrimage site, Bodh Gaya, and monument, the Mahabodhi Temple, as well as its genealogy and role in the marking of sacred space. However, despite the fact that the symbol of the Bodhi Tree is ubiquitous, its visual depiction is not the focus of any previous study. The sacred fig tree has been a part of India’s material and visual culture since before the advent of Buddhism and has even spread to contemporary culture, for example its appearance in several American business logos and current use in the branding of traditional and natural products in Thailand.
This study surveys the depiction of the sacred fig tree from its beginnings in India, through its application in Indian and Southeast Asian Buddhist art and finally its contemporary uses in the East and West, Thailand and the United States, respectively. In studying the
appearance, use and meaning of this symbol from ancient to contemporary times and Buddhist to non-Buddhists contexts, this thesis adds to the history and myth of one of the world’s many sacred trees, beyond its association with the Buddha’s enlightenment.
Recommended Citation
Spradling, Amanda J., "Leaves of the Bodhi Tree from East to West: The Symbol of the Sacred Fig Tree in Ancient india, Southeast asia and Contemporary Contexts" (2019). Graduate Research Theses & Dissertations. 7688.
https://huskiecommons.lib.niu.edu/allgraduate-thesesdissertations/7688
Extent
139 pages
Language
eng
Publisher
Northern Illinois University
Rights Statement
In Copyright
Rights Statement 2
NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.
Media Type
Text
