Peepal-Tree Of Life

“Mom, where are you going now? Going for an evening walk? “My daughter Anushree asked.

“No, dear. I am going to the Shani Temple. Today is Saturday, the day of Lord Shani Dev. After darshan of my favourite Lord of Justice, I will light lamps under the Peepal tree, near the temple, praying for the good health and welfare of my sweet granddaughter Swarna and all of us family members. Then, I will do circumambulation of the Peepal tree.”

“Great Mumma, but what is the significance of Peepal tree in our culture? Please tell me in detail.”

“OK Anu, I like to worship the sacred Peepal tree. Peepal tree is also known as Sacred Fig, Ashvattha tree, Bodhi tree or Pippala tree. As per Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma lives in the Peepal tree’s roots, Lord Vishnu lives in the Peepal tree’s trunk, and Lord Shiva lives in the Peepal tree’s leaves. Hindus believe that Lord Vishnu, with Goddess Lakshmi, resides on this tree on Saturday and people worship pouring water to the roots of the tree every Saturday. The ‘Brahma Purana’ claims that Lord Vishnu was born under a Peepal Tree, so the Peepal tree also represents Lord Vishnu. Lord Krishna is also associated with Peepal tree. We have seen that Lord Krishna’s child form is depicted on a Peepal leaf in painting and sculpture. We Keralites wear Mangal sutra with a pendant having the same design as Lord Krishna, in a child form, lying on a Peepal leaf.

 Lord Krishna says in the Holy Scripture Bhagavad Gita: “I am the Ashvattha (Peepal tree) among the trees.” The Peepal tree is also where Lord Krishna is said to have died.

 In Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, the Peepal tree (also known as the “Bodhi Tree”) is considered auspicious. The holy Peepal tree, also known as the Bodhi Satva Vruksha, is a religious and spiritual symbol Siddhartha Gautama [founder of Buddhism] meditated under the tree and became the Buddha. Thus, Buddhists call the tree Bodhi - the tree of enlightenment. According to the science of Ayurveda, every part of the Peepal tree - the leaf, bark, shoot, seeds and its fruit has several medicinal benefits, and it is being used since ancient times to cure many diseases. The Peepal is a real “Tree of Life.” It releases oxygen even at night, unlike other trees.It is believed that worshipping Peepal tree can help in reducing the negative effects of all planets including malefic planets like Rahu and Ketu. Peepal tree is the abode of Lord Vishnu, and hence, worshipping it can bring blessings and divine grace. our rituals are actually meant to keep us near nature and also teach us to respect nature. So, I feel emotionally attached to the holy Peepal tree. Understood dear? Now may I go?”

Anushree smiled and told me: “Mom, I am blessed to be born as your daughter. You are a strong devotee and you follow our customs and traditions very well. Next Saturday I will accompany you to light lamps under the Peepal Tree. May God bless us all.”