[INDOLOGY] Knowledge Tree

[rajam]

For a Hindu story that tells of a "World Tree" or "Knowledge Tree,” I can think of 
one reference, that is to the pipal tree (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ficus_religiosa; ஆல மரம், கல்லால மரம்). 

In the Buddhist tradition, there exists ‘bhodhi’ tree. 

The narrative you have sited reminds me of the story of the 'Tower of Babel’ from Biblical times.
There’s no such negativity in the Hindu/Buddhist tradition.  
       .

> On Feb 28, 2025, at 1:33 AM, Bruno Lo Turco via INDOLOGY <indology at list.indology.info> wrote:
> 
> Dear list members,
> I am seeking information about a Hindu story that tells of a "World Tree" or "Knowledge Tree." According to the narrative, this tree grew from the center of the Earth, aiming to reach the heavens and unite humanity under its branches. However, Brahmā punished the tree by cutting off its branches, which fell to Earth and gave rise to the different languages and cultures.
> See https://alphaomegatranslations.com/foreign-language/three-myths-about-the-origin-of-language/ <https://alphaomegatranslations.com/foreign-language/three-myths-about-the-origin-of-language/>
> Could you help me identify the source of this story within classical or traditional Hindu literature? 
> Thank you for any information or references you might provide.
> Best regards,
> Bruno
> 
> -- 
> Bruno Lo Turco
> _________________________________
> Dip. Istituto Italiano di Studi Orientali - ISO
> "SAPIENZA" Università di Roma
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