Incense - Branch of the sacred Bodhi tree

Incense - Branch of the sacred Bodhi tree

The Bodhi tree, also known as the asvattha, pipal, enlightenment tree and sacred fig, is a long-lived, summer-growing tree belonging to the mulberry family (Moraceae) and the fig genus (Ficus). The Bodhi tree gets its name from the Sanskrit and Pali words "bodhi", which means "awakening" or "highest knowledge". The pieces of the Bodhi tree branch are approximately 70mm x 6mm in size. Sold individually.

Symbol meaning

The sacred Bodhi tree is believed to have grown on the site of the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, Bihar, India. According to Buddhist mythology, Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) attained enlightenment (nirvana) after meditating for seven weeks (49 days) under the Bodhi tree. Hindus, on the other hand, associate the Bodhi tree with female fertility and believe that the god Vishnu was born at the base of the tree. In Lamaism and Buddhist tantra (Vajrayāna), the Bodhi tree is associated with cremation. The Bodhi tree is seen as a symbol of the individual's journey to infinity. From a small and hard seed grows a tree that is open and free to all, in the same way that the human mind and heart should grow. The Bodhi tree is rooted deep in the earth, just as we ourselves are rooted in matter, but its branches reach up towards the sky. The Bodhi tree symbolizes ageless wisdom, fertility, meditation, enlightenment and protection.

Incense is an aromatic substance that, when burned, spreads a pleasant scent around it. The word "incense" refers to both the smoke and the substance itself. Originally, the purpose of burning incense was to establish a connection with the spirit world, purify people and spaces, and express gratitude and respect. They were also used to eliminate unpleasant odors and to protect and drive away evil spirits.

In many Far Eastern countries, including India, China and Japan, incense is used in sacred religious rituals, at the entrances of temples, on altars in front of idols, or burned at home, for example on the doorstep or on a small home altar. Incense is used to pay respect to important spirits and deities.

Ritual use

• Cleansing : Incense not only cleanses the physical environment, but also dispels negative energy. Its gentle smoke can help to clear away darkness and obstacles and make room for new growth. - For example, gently hold the incense burner in your hand and spread the smoke around you. You can do this by moving the smoke slowly and deliberately around your body, starting at the head and moving downwards. You can also spread the smoke around the room or space you are in to cleanse it.
• Connection : Incense smoke reaches up to the sky, creating a symbolic bridge to the spirit world, divinity, and higher realms. The intoxicating scent of incense carries your requests and intentions up to the heights. - For example, before burning incense, set an intention for the kind of connection you want to create. Breathe deeply and calmly, let your mind quiet down, and as the incense smokes, imagine how the smoke lifts your thoughts and intentions up to the sky. Make room for possible intuitive messages and insights.
• Sacrifice : Sacrificing the old self in terms of limiting beliefs and things that hinder development. - For example, before burning incense, set an intention for what you want to achieve through the sacrifice. You can think of old self traits, behaviors, or burdens that you want to release. Light the incense and focus on the feelings you want to release. You can imagine how the rising smoke symbolizes these feelings or traits. You can also say out loud the feelings or thoughts you want to release.

Other uses

• Life Transitions: Incense has been a part of various life transition rituals. It symbolizes the transition from one state to another and helps us embrace the power of change.
• Calming and increasing awareness: The scent of incense wafts around you, creating a calming atmosphere. This magical atmosphere invites you into a world of meditation and spiritual focus.
• Intuition and Wisdom: The scent of incense awakens intuitive awareness and helps open the connection to the inner wisdom that lies within us all.
• Gratitude and respect: Incense can be a gesture of gratitude and respect, whether it is directed to higher powers, ancestors, or the sacredness of nature.
• Sensory Experience: The scent of incense awakens the senses and increases sensual pleasure. It can also open the door to ceremonies and rituals that celebrate the world of the senses.

If you would like more information about rituals and their purpose, take part in Semiphoras' online courses or book an appointment for personal guidance.

How to burn incense

Bodhi wood is used like incense. Incense is lit from the end of a bodhi wood stick. Once the incense has lit, let the flame burn for a few seconds and then blow the flame out. The tip of the incense will now glow orange-red and release a lot of fragrant, sweet smoke. Place the bodhi wood stick upright (or slightly tilted) in an incense holder or alternatively in a container filled with sand/fine sea salt. Make sure that the ash from the incense falls directly into the container. Since incense releases smoke when burning, you should ensure sufficient replacement air. We recommend using the incense near an open window or balcony door. This will allow the smoke from the incense to mix with the fresh outside air and the scent will be better revealed. You can also burn the incense outdoors. Let the bodhi wood burn for the desired time. The easiest way to extinguish a burning stick is to blunt the burning tip on the edge of a container or in sand, for example.

Note! Semiphoras sacred bodhi tree incense sticks are cut from naturally fallen branches. No living temple fig trees have been harmed or felled during the collection of branches. When using the product, pay attention to fire safety. Act as if you were dealing with an open fire. Therefore, do not leave burning incense unattended. The glowing tip of burning incense is very hot. Make sure that the smoke can rise freely and that there is nothing flammable near the burning incense, such as curtains or textiles. Also make sure that the incense holder/container is on a heat-resistant surface. Keep out of reach of children.