Grammatical Analysis
Bodhi: [f.] awakening; enlightenment; supreme knowledge. From root budh (to wake up, perceive, know, understand). Literally means the state of being fully awakened from the slumber of ignorance.
Orthodox Definition
According to the Mahāvihāra commentarial tradition, Bodhi refers specifically to the transcendent knowledge of the four supramundane paths (magga-ñāṇa). It is the ultimate cognitive awakening where the Four Noble Truths are simultaneously and perfectly penetrated.
The tradition recognizes three distinct models of Bodhi:
- Sāvakabodhi (or Anubodhi): The awakening of a noble disciple (sāvaka), achieved by hearing and practicing the Dhamma taught by a Fully Enlightened Buddha, culminating in Arahatship.
- Paccekabodhi: The independent awakening of a Silent Buddha (Paccekabuddha) who realizes the truths by himself without an instructor, but does not establish an Order or teach the wider world.
- Sammāsambodhi: The supreme, omniscient enlightenment of a Fully Enlightened Buddha (Sammā-sambuddha), who discovers the path independently and possesses the capacity to set the Wheel of Dhamma in motion for cosmic benefit.
Architecturally, the physical tree under which the Bodhisatta attained this state is termed the Bodhirukka, serving as a primary focal point for orthodox lay devotion.
Textual References
- Sutta: Bodhi Sutta (Ud 1.1) – The Buddha reflecting on the nature of dependent origination immediately following his supreme awakening.
- Canonical: Paṭisambhidāmagga (Ñāṇakathā section) – Detailed breakdowns of the stages of liberating knowledge.
- Commentary: Madhuratthavilāsinī (Commentary on the Buddhavaṃsa) – Thorough analysis of the structural requirements for the three types of Bodhi.