Divurum Bodhi Viharaya
Divurum Bodhi Viharaya, also known as Purana Divurum Bodhi Maha Viharaya, is a Theravada Buddhist temple located in the Kandy District of Sri Lanka. Its significance stems from its historical use as a place where individuals took oaths during the Kingdom of Kandy, with a unique swearing stone, the Divurum Gala, central to this practice. The temple grounds also feature a Bodhi Tree believed to be 650 years old.
Key Facts
- ›The temple is a Theravada Buddhist site in the Kandy District, Sri Lanka.
- ›Its name, Divurum, translates to 'swearing' in Sinhala, reflecting its historical function.
- ›During the Kingdom of Kandy, a portion of the temple grounds served as a court where accused individuals swore oaths on the Divurum Gala.
- ›The Divurum Gala, a swearing stone, is believed to have been constructed during the Kingdom of Dambadeniya and features engravings of the sun and moon.
- ›Local tradition holds that a false oath made on the Divurum Gala would result in a cobra bite within three days.
- ›The Bodhi Tree on the temple grounds is estimated to be 650 years old.
Important Relationships
- Kingdom of Kandy
- Kingdom of Dambadeniya
Bodhi Tree, Divurum Gala
- Used As A Court For Taking Oaths During the Kingdom of Kandy
About Divurum Bodhi Viharaya
Divurum Bodhi Viharaya, also known by its longer name Purana Divurum Bodhi Maha Viharaya, is a significant Theravada Buddhist temple situated in the Kandy District of Sri Lanka. Located on Ampitiya Road in Ampitiya, the temple holds historical importance derived from its association with judicial practices during the era of the Kingdom of Kandy.
Historical Context and Significance
During the Kingdom of Kandy, a part of the temple grounds was utilized as a court. Here, individuals accused of crimes were required to swear oaths on a distinctive stone known as the Divurum Gala. The name 'Divurum' itself translates to 'swearing' in Sinhala, directly referencing this historical practice. The Divurum Gala, which features engravings of the sun and moon, is believed to have been constructed during the earlier Kingdom of Dambadeniya.
Folklore surrounding the Divurum Gala suggests a potent consequence for dishonesty. According to Kandyan tradition, if an accused person swore a false oath upon this stone, they would face retribution in the form of a cobra bite within three days, leading to their death.
Notable Features
Among the notable features of Divurum Bodhi Viharaya is its ancient Bodhi Tree, which local accounts suggest is around 650 years old. This venerable tree, a common symbol of Buddhist enlightenment, adds to the spiritual and historical ambiance of the temple. The Divurum Gala remains a key artifact, embodying the temple's unique historical role in local justice and belief systems.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Divurum Bodhi Viharaya mean?
The name Divurum Bodhi Viharaya translates to 'swearing temple' in Sinhala. This name reflects the historical practice of people taking oaths on the temple grounds.
What is the historical significance of the Divurum Gala?
The Divurum Gala, or swearing stone, was used during the Kingdom of Kandy as a place where accused individuals had to swear their innocence. It is believed to date back to the Kingdom of Dambadeniya.
What is the folklore associated with the swearing stone?
According to Kandyan folklore, if an accused person lied while swearing on the Divurum Gala, they would be bitten and killed by a cobra within three days.
How old is the Bodhi Tree at Divurum Bodhi Viharaya?
According to local accounts, the Bodhi Tree located at Divurum Bodhi Viharaya is approximately 650 years old.
Related Buddhist Temples
Ridi Viharaya
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Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya
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Atamasthana
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