In the Hindu religion, Peepal tree has a lot of
reverence and significance for people. People worship the tree and
perform a puja. But, nobody really knows anything about its history &
origin. Well, there are also some interesting legends associated with
the Peepal tree. The tree is known for its heart shaped leaves that have
long narrowing tips. The origin of peepal tree can be traced back to the
times of Indus Valley Civilisation (3000 BC - 1700 BC) in the
Mohenjodaro city. Excavations are suggestive of the fact that even in
those times; the peepal tree was worshipped by Hindus. To know more
about the origin of Peepal tree, read on.
During the Vedic period, the wood obtained by cutting Peepal tree was
used to produce fire. In the ancient Puranas, an incident has been
described in which the demons defeated the deities and Lord Vishnu hid
in the Peepal tree. Since, the Lord resided in the tree for some time;
the tree holds great importance for people. Thus, people began
worshipping the tree, considering it to be a means of offering prayers
to Lord Vishnu. There are a few legends, which suggest that Lord Vishnu
was born under the peepal tree. There are a couple of stories, which say
that the tree is home to the trinity of Gods, the root being Brahma, the
trunk is Vishnu and leaves represent Lord Shiva. Another popular belief
is that Lord Krishna died under the Peepal tree.
Upanishads have also made a mention about the Peepal tree. To clearly
define the difference between the body and soul, the fruit of peepal is
used as a classic example. According to the Skanda purana, a person who
does not have a son should consider the peepal tree as his own child. It
says that the family will prosper and have a good name, till the peepal
tree survives. Cutting a peepal tree is regarded as a big sin, which is
almost equivalent to murdering a Brahmin. Skanda Puranas say that a
person who cuts the tree surely goes to hell.
It is preferred to touch the peepal tree only on Saturdays. It is said
that once upon a time, there were two demons, namely Ashvattha and
Peepala, who used to torture and harass people. Ashvattha took the form
of peepal and the Peepala disguised as Brahmin. The Brahmin used to
recommend people to touch the peepal tree and as soon as they did so,
they were killed by the demon Ashvattha. Both the demons were killed by
Shani devta. It is due to the strong influence of Shani Maharaj that it
is considered safe to touch the peepal tree on Saturdays. People are of
the belief that even Goddess Lakshmi dwells in the tree on Saturdays.
Women who are not blessed with a son tie a red thread around the trunk
or on its branches asking the deities to bless her and fulfill her
desire.
