Bodhi Tree

The bodhi tree, also called the sacred fig, bo tree or peepul, is a large fig of the Indian subcontinent and Indochina with heart-shaped leaves that end in a long point. Wikipedia says it is held sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism. Cunningham calls it masculine, with Jupiter and air, and lists fertility, protection, wisdom and meditation. He says it is sacred to Vishnu, and to the Buddha, who sat beneath it in meditation. Barren women walk beneath it to become fertile, circling the tree sends evil away, and the leaves go into meditation incenses. Kynes adds water and Venus, and says Indian mythology makes it a cosmic tree at the centre of the world. She says a branch set before the door was believed to ensure a safe return, and carved bodhi seeds are strung as mala beads. She has a candle for awareness in psychic development, and beads hung high in the house for peace and harmony.