Lord Shiva: BILVA leaves- significance and importance |

Описание: According to several legends,Goddess Parvati became tired due to her sports and drops of sweat appeared on her forehead which fell on the ground of the Mandara mountain, from which grew the bel tree.


It is said that Girija lives on the root of the tree, Maheswari on its shoulder, Dakshayani on its branches, Parvati among its leaves, Katyayani in its fruit, Gowri in its flowers, while in thorns the numerous Saktis find a home. It is also believed that Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth, also lives in the bel tree.

Bel tree is considered a very sacred and holy tree in the Hindu religion. The leaves of this tree are generally trifolic, which means a leaf that is divided into three leaflets - which are believed to represent the three eyes of Lord Shiva.

According to Hindu mythology, the leaf also represents the holy trinity - Bramha, Vishnu and Mahesh i.e. Shiva. In addition to all the symbolism attributed to the deeply revered Bel leaf or Bel Patra, it is also known to be Lord Shiva's favourite. Hence on offering Bilva or Bel Patra to Shivji, devotees can get the blessing from him.

Shiva Purana regards this leaf as one of the six divine articles that are used to worship Lord Shiva. It is also used in the worship of many Hindu deities.