Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c7.s2.t3.5

v1.c7.s2.t3.5

Sambodhi is the first name used for the Uruvela village in an Asokan Rock Edict of 256 BCE. Another name Bodhimanda refers to a circular area around the Bodhi tree which was, according to Kalingabodhi Jataka, covered with clean and shining sand without a blade of grass growing on it with surrounding trees and shrubs bending in its deference. The name, *Vajrasan*, derives from the famous "Diamond Throne" meditation seat, sitting over which Buddha received enlightenment. However, Mahabodhi was the most commonly used name until the rediscovery of the site in the mid-19^th century.