The Significance of the Bodhi Tree Seeds in Buddhism
The Bodhi tree, known scientifically as Corypha umbraculifera L. the talipot palm, is a species of palm native to eastern and southern India and Sri Lanka. It is also grown in Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand and the Andaman Islands. And it is grown sparsely in China.
It is one of the largest palms with individual specimens having reached heights of up to 25 m (82 ft) . The talipot palm is monocarpic, flowering only once, when it is 30 to 80 years old. It takes about a year for the fruit to mature, producing thousands of round, yellow-green fruit 3–4 cm (1–1.5 in) in diameter, each containing a single seed.
The plant dies after fruiting.
The talipot palm holds an esteemed position in the spiritual and cultural realms of Buddhism. It is under the shade of a Bodhi tree that Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism, is believed to have attained enlightenment and transformed into the Buddha.
As a result, every element associated with this tree, including its seeds, carries profound spiritual and symbolic significance.
The Mystique of Bodhi Tree Seeds: Nature's Spiritual Gift
The Bodhi seeds, though stemming from the same sacred tree, manifest themselves in three distinct colors: whitish, greenish, and yellowish-brown.
1. Whitish: Reflects the untouched and pure nature of the seed. Just as a newborn baby comes into the world untainted and innocent, the whitish Bodhi seed captures the essence of beginnings, symbolizing purity and a fresh start on the path to enlightenment.
2. Greenish: Some seeds fall off the tree. As the seeds remain enveloped by the earth, they absorb minerals and elements that give them this greenish. The green color embodies growth, vitality, and a deep connection to Mother Earth. It's a reminder of the nourishment and wisdom that the earth offers, echoing the teachings of Buddhism that emphasize interconnectedness and gratitude.
3. Yellowish-brown: Over time, as the Bodhi seeds mature and interact with the natural elements, they develop this rich, yellowish-brown shade. This color signifies maturity, wisdom, and the accumulation of spiritual knowledge. Just as the earth turns golden-brown during harvest season, reflecting the fruition of hard work and patience, the yellowish-brown Bodhi seeds represent the rewards of dedication and perseverance on the spiritual path.
Activate the Natural Gloss of Your Bodhi Seed Bracelet
To bring out the natural oils of the Bodhi tree seeds and give them a radiant glossy finish, follow these instructions (seen as Method 3 in the video at the bottom of this page):
Grasp the Bracelet:
-
With your bracelet in one hand, grip it securely but gently. Your index finger should be on the inside of the bracelet, and your thumb should be on the outside.
Form Two Concentric Circles:
-
Use your index finger to push half of the bracelet's circle inwards, transforming the single bracelet circle into two concentric circles.
Initiate the Rotation:
-
Position your thumb on the upper side of the outer circle and your index finger (along with other fingers as needed) on the underside of the inner circle.
Massage with Upward/Downward Motion:
-
Begin by pushing with your thumb while simultaneously pulling with your index and other fingers. This will cause the seeds to rotate in a cyclical motion, with the beads rolling over each other. This action brings the beads into close contact, helping to release their natural oils.
Maintain Consistent Pressure:
-
As you rotate the seeds, ensure you maintain a consistent and gentle pressure. This will ensure the seeds are massaged uniformly, enhancing their natural shine.
Complete Multiple Rotations:
-
Repeat the upward/downward circular motion for several rotations until you feel the seeds starting to warm up from the friction, indicating that their oils are being activated.
Care Recommendations:
-
Practice this massage technique regularly to maintain and enhance the bracelet’s sheen.
Bodhi tree seeds have significant meaning in Chinese spiritual community. They are traditionally used to make prayer beads that help in meditation and relaxation. The seeds will naturally become shinier and more lustrous with proper care.
-
Use soft gloves for the first 2 or 3 days. This will prevent any oils, dirt, or impurities from transferring onto the beads.
-
After 2 or 3 days of using gloves, you can use your bare hands. Always wash your hands with mild soap to remove any lotions, oils, or dirt before rubbing the beads.
-
Rotate each bead between your fingers. This will help the beads achieve a glossy appearance over time.
-
After the beads feel oily and sticky, put them away for a week to allow them to cure. After about a week, you can rub them with clean hands again. Repeat the cycle – when you feel the beads begin to feel oily and sticky again, put them away and let them cure.
-
Do not get the beads wet. If they get wet, dry them gently with a soft cloth, and air dry away from direct sunlight.
-
Excessive sunlight will dry out the seeds and cause them to crack or become discolored.
The beauty of Bodhi seed bracelets is that they naturally become more lustrous with proper care and regular rubbing. Over time, they will take on a beautiful patina that reflects your own unique energy and journey.
Bodhi tree Seed Bracelet Care Instructions:
Method 1- Use your thumb to rub the beads one by one.
Method 2- Use all of your fingers to rub the bracelet
Method 3- Form two concentric circles by using your index finger to push half of the bracelet's circle inwards, while using your thumb to push the upper side of the outer circle.
Method 4- Form the bracelet in a figure 8 with your index finger and thumb, push the bead on your index finger inwards with your thumb, the circles on your index finger and thumb will change places.
Method 5- Form a figure 8 with your middle finger and thumb, rub the beads with your index finger one by one.
