What Do 108 Beads Mean? Bodhi Seed Counts Explained – History, Buddhist Symbolism & Buying Tips
The Sanskrit term "Bodhi" (Enlightenment) refers to "the supreme wisdom attained by transcending worldly sufferings" in Chinese Buddhism. It represents the ultimate "Dao" (path) in spiritual philosophy.
Legend says when Buddha Sakyamuni entered Nirvana, he silently held up a flower to disciples. Only Mahākāśyapa smiled in sudden enlightenment, inheriting the Zen Buddhist lineage as its first patriarch. Zen teachings emphasize master-disciple transmission through intuitive awakening rather than rigid doctrines - attaining Bodhi is itself a state of sudden realization.
The Sacred Bodhi Tree
The Bodhi tree (Ficus religiosa L.), a fig species native to India (now national tree of India), holds profound Buddhist significance. Around 2,500 years ago, Prince Siddhartha Gautama renounced royalty to seek truth. After meditating under a Bodhi tree for seven days, he achieved complete enlightenment at dawn's first light.
Originally called Pipala tree, it was renamed after sheltering Buddha during meditation. Buddhist pilgrims still circumambulate these sacred trees with offerings.
Zen Master Huineng's Verse
The Sixth Patriarch of Zen Buddhism, Huineng (638-713 CE), famously wrote:
"Bodhi is no tree, nor mirror a stand;
Originally pure emptiness - where could dust land?"
This verse reflects Buddhism's "Four Great Emptiness" philosophy, often misinterpreted as denying Bodhi trees' existence.
Bodhi Trees in China
Introduced through Buddhist cultural exchange, Bodhi trees first arrived in China via monk Zhiyao Sanzang (502 CE) from India to Guangzhou's Guangxiao Temple. Ancient specimens over 300 years old still thrive there.
Origin of "Bodhi Seeds"
Contrary to popular belief, Bodhi seeds don't grow on Bodhi trees. Two theories exist:
1. Tibetan Buddhist Tradition: The term comes from "Bo-di-ci" seeds found in Himalayan regions (Tibet/Sichuan's Mount Tiantai). Their porcelain-like luster made them ideal prayer beads.
2. Chinese Herbalism: Li Shizhen's Compendium of Materia Medica identifies them as "Sapindus" or "Coix lacryma-jobi" seeds.
Modern "spiritual Bodhi seeds" in markets are natural plant seeds/roots from over 100 species, carrying Buddhist symbolic meanings rather than botanical connections.
Buddhist Prayer Beads Symbolism
Rooted in ancient Indian religious practices, Buddhist mala beads help count mantras during meditation. The term "Bodhi seeds" emerged as practitioners used various natural materials representing enlightenment pursuit.