Based on the provided reference, specific trees are associated with several past Buddhas, including the last few mentioned in the list leading up to the present Buddha, Gautama. While the reference does not list trees for all 28 historical Buddhas often cited in tradition, it specifies the trees for Buddhas #25 through #28.
Each Buddha is traditionally said to have attained enlightenment (Bodhi) under a particular species of tree, known as their Bodhi Tree. The specific trees listed in the reference for the last four Buddhas are detailed below:
Trees Associated with Specific Buddhas
The reference provides the following associations between Buddhas and their Bodhi trees:
| # | Buddha (Pāli name) | Binomial Name | Common Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | Kakusandha | Albizia lebbeck | Siris Tree |
| 26 | Koṇāgamana | Ficus racemosa | Cluster Fig Tree |
| 27 | Kassapa | Ficus benghalensis | Banyan Tree |
| 28 | Gautama Buddha | Ficus religiosa | Sacred Fig or Peepal Tree |
Note: Gautama Buddha is the historical Buddha of the present era.
The Significance of the Bodhi Tree
The most famous of these is the Ficus religiosa, under which Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, India. This tree is known as the Mahabodhi Tree. Descendants of this tree are revered and propagated throughout the Buddhist world, symbolizing the Buddha's enlightenment and the path to awakening.
The tradition of associating a specific tree with each Buddha highlights the connection between enlightenment and the natural world. These trees serve as powerful symbols in Buddhist history and practice.
For further reading on the Bodhi Tree and its significance, you can refer to the Wikipedia article on the Bodhi Tree. The section Mahabodhi trees of other Buddhas specifically lists the trees for some of the previous Buddhas.
