A Memorable Beginning – The Bodhi Tree of Hudson Valley Buddhist Vihara

On December 23, 2018, a deeply meaningful and memorable moment in the history of the Hudson Valley Buddhist Vihara took place at the New York Buddhist Vihara in Queens Village, New York.

On this special occasion, the Venerable Kurunegoda Dhammaloka Thero generously presented a sacred Bodhi tree to the Hudson Valley Buddhist Vihara. The Bodhi tree was received on behalf of the Vihara by its President, Mr. Preethi Atalugama, together with his family, the Narampanawa family, and Mrs. Anula Jayathilake.

This sacred Bodhi tree holds a very special and cherished place in the history of the Hudson Valley Buddhist Vihara. At a time when the Vihara did not yet have a permanent physical location, the Bodhi tree became a living symbol of the community’s faith, devotion, hope, and aspiration to establish a Buddhist temple in the Hudson Valley.

With great reverence and care, the Bodhi tree was brought home and lovingly protected and nurtured by the families until a permanent location for the Vihara could be established. It was kept with the heartfelt hope that, when the appropriate temple grounds were secured, the tree would find its permanent home there.

Although there was not yet a physical temple, the Bodhi tree represented the vision of the temple that lived in the hearts of the devotees. It stood as a symbol of the Buddha’s Dhamma and of the community’s shared commitment to creating a spiritual home in the Hudson Valley.

This meaningful occasion on December 23, 2018, will forever remain an important part of the Vihara’s history. The sacred Bodhi tree represents not merely a tree, but a living connection to the Buddha’s enlightenment, a symbol of peace and wisdom, and a reminder of the dedication and devotion of those who worked toward establishing the Hudson Valley Buddhist Vihara.

May this sacred Bodhi tree continue to flourish and remain a lasting symbol of the Buddha’s Dhamma, peace, compassion, wisdom, and the enduring aspirations of the Hudson Valley Buddhist community.

May it be a blessing for generations to come.