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Sacred Hindu Trees and Plants

In Hinduism, many trees and plants are worshiped. In ancient scriptures too, it is mentioned that plants and trees are worshiped and it is practiced by Hindus since ages. The Aryans worshiped the nature and we all in some or the other way still practice this tradition. Many trees are considered sacred in Hinduism. From basil (tulsi) to banana tree, religious plants hold a special spiritual significance in this religion. Take a look...

Sacred Hindu trees and plants:

Sacred Hindu Trees and Plants

Banana: Though banana is not a tree, its size and structure makes it count as a tree. This scared Hindu tree is used in many religious ways. The trunk is used for pujas, the leaves are hanged on the entrance of the gate, and also used to serve food. The fruit is offered to Lord Ganesha and banana trees are widely worshiped on Thursdays to impress Lord Vishnu.

Mango: This sacred tree in Hinduism has been mentioned in Ramayana, Mahabharata and the Puranas. The fruit is a symbol of love, purity and fertility. The mango tree leaves are used in several rituals and pujas. According to the ancient believers, mango leaves symbolise life.

Peepal tree: The first depicted tree in India is sacred in Hinduism. According to the Brahma and the Padma Purana, it is a tree where Lord Vishnu hid after the demons defeated the gods. It is also believed that the tree represents Trimurti; Brahma (root), Vishnu (trunk) and Shiva (leaves). Peepal tree is also worshiped by devotees of Shani Dev. The tree is sacred to Buddhists too. It is the Bodh tree (tree of enlightenment), under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

Tulsi: Every married Hindu woman worships this sacred tree that is planted in front of the courtyard. Tulsi beads can be seen on the necks of yogis and mystics. It is worn to purify the body, mind and soul. In religious terms, no puja can be commenced without tulsi leaves. Tulsi is said to be loved by Lord Vishnu and Vrinda Devi. Even Tulsi Vivaah is a popular religious practice in Hinduism.

Bael tree: In Shivratri, you can easily see many bael leaves and fruit offered to Lord Shiva. This sacred Hindu tree is associated with Lord Shiva. It is believed that the offering of bael leaves is good to please Him. The trifoliate leaf or tripatra, bael flowers and fruit are all offered to Lord Shiva.

Sandalwood tree: Both red and plain sandalwood trees are considered sacred and pure in Hinduism. The paste is applied on Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. According to ancient scriptures, Goddess Parvati used sandalwood paste to create Lord Ganesha. Sandalwood paste is considered holy and pure.

These are few sacred trees and plants that are worshiped in India.

Story first published: Wednesday, May 15, 2013, 15:19 [IST]
Read more about: spirituality hinduism