Bodhgaya, where Siddhartha Gautama attained supreme enlightenment, is revered as one of the most sacred sites in Buddhism. After attaining enlightenment, Buddha spent the next seven weeks here, which were filled with profound spiritual significance and extraordinary events. Each week marked a step in stabilizing his mind and body, reflecting on the Dhamma, and preparing for his role as the teacher of humanity. Let’s delve into the details of these sacred weeks and their importance.
Week 1: Meditation Under the Bodhi Tree
On the full moon night of Vesak, at the age of 35, Siddhartha Gautama became the Buddha—the Enlightened One. Following this momentous event, Buddha remained seated on the Diamond Throne (Vajrasana) beneath the Bodhi Tree, absorbed in the bliss of liberation. For seven days, he meditated in silence, free from all disturbing thoughts.
During this week, villagers visited the Bodhi Tree out of curiosity, but only Sujata and Punna—his earlier benefactors—dared to approach him. This period symbolized the Buddha’s deep inner peace and spiritual stability after attaining enlightenment.
Week 2: Gratitude to the Bodhi Tree
Emerging from his week-long meditation, Buddha moved a short distance away and stood gazing at the Bodhi Tree for seven days without blinking. This was his expression of deep gratitude to the tree that had sheltered him during his quest for enlightenment.
The site of this event is commemorated by the Animeshalochana Chaitya (Shrine of Unblinking Eyes), located in front of the Mahabodhi Temple. The shrine, built by King Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, is a reminder of Buddha’s appreciation for the natural world and his humility. The present temple was built during the sixth or seventh century and houses a gilded figure of Bodhisattva Manjushri.
Week 3: Walking Meditation (Cankama)
The third week was spent practicing Cankamana, or walking meditation, between the Bodhi Tree and the spot now known as the Animeshalochana Chaitya. This meditative walking reflected his mindfulness and the balance he sought to maintain between stillness and movement.
Today, this path is marked by a raised platform adorned with carvings of Buddha’s footprints. It remains a place of devotion, symbolizing his steps of awakening and continuous mindfulness.
The raised circles on the platform, each carved with a footprint suggest the Buddha’s steps. A row of eleven pillar bases, running parallel to the raised platform on the north side suggests that it was a covered area complete with high pillars, during its ancient period.
Week 4: The Jewelled House (Rathna Ghar)
In the fourth week, Buddha meditated in a jeweled hall, reflecting deeply on the Dhamma’s various aspects and applications. It is said that a radiant light emanated from his body during this meditation, illuminating the Bodhi Tree and the surrounding area.
The site, known as Rathna Ghar (Jewelled House), lies to the northwest of the Mahabodhi Temple. Although only the base and lower walls of the original shrine survive, it remains a sacred spot for pilgrims.
Week 5: Speaking Under the Ajapala Banyan Tree
Buddha spent the fifth week under the Ajapala Nigrodha (Banyan) Tree, where goat herds often sought shade. During this week, he spoke for the first time since his enlightenment. In response to an arrogant Brahmin’s question, Buddha expounded on the qualities of a true Brahmin, emphasizing virtue and wisdom over birth or caste.
This week also marked an important interaction with Sujata and Punna, who became his lifelong devotees. Additionally, it is believed that Brahma requested Buddha to begin teaching the Dhamma during this time.
The spot is marked with a sign immediate south of the entrance to the temple complex and directly in front of the Mahabodhi Temple.
Week 6: Protection by Mucalinda, the Serpent King
In the sixth week, Buddha meditated at the root of the Mucalinda Tree. During this time, an untimely rainstorm struck the area, lasting for several days. The serpent king Mucalinda emerged from the nearby pond and coiled his body around Buddha, shielding him with his hood.
This act of protection signifies the harmony between Buddha and nature. The site of this event is marked by the Mucalinda Pond, located a short distance south of the Mahabodhi Temple.
Week 7: Offering from the Two Merchants
In the seventh and final week, Buddha meditated under the Rajayatana Tree, where he remained for seven days in deep reflection. It was here that two merchants, Tapassu and Bhallika, approached him with offerings of rice cakes and honey.
This meal was Buddha’s first after seven weeks of fasting. In gratitude, the two merchants became the first lay disciples of Buddha, taking refuge in the Buddha and the Dhamma. This significant moment is marked by a sign south of the Mahabodhi Temple.
The Journey to Sarnath: Turning the Wheel of Dhamma
After completing seven weeks at Bodhgaya, Buddha embarked on his journey to Sarnath. There, he delivered his first sermon to five ascetics, marking the establishment of the Sangha and the turning of the Wheel of Dhamma. This event transformed the spiritual landscape of humanity forever.
Visit Bodhgaya with Bodhisattva Travels
The seven weeks of Buddha’s enlightenment form a timeless story of reflection, gratitude, and transformation. Each site at Bodhgaya holds immense spiritual and historical significance, attracting pilgrims and seekers from around the world.
At Bodhisattva Travels, we offer immersive pilgrimage experiences that bring these sacred stories to life. Walk in the footsteps of the Buddha, meditate under the Bodhi Tree, and explore the jewels of Buddhist heritage with our expert-guided tours.
Book your journey today and experience the spiritual awakening of Bodhgaya!
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