Significance of Bel Patra: Why is it offered to Lord Shiva?

InstaAstro welcomes you to the world of Lord Shiva, one of the most powerful and divine deities in Hindu mythology. Today get ready to discuss the significance of bel patra and why is it offered to Lord Shiva. 

Lord Shiva, the nurturer, creator and destroyer of the universe, is one of Hindu mythology’s most worshipped and revered gods. Can you name some of the things that are favourites of Lord Shiva? 

Yet, of many of his attributes, Lord Shiva is known for his love for the simple things. Bel patra leaves, or bilva tree, are a prime example. As per popular beliefs, bel patra leaves are one of the dearest things of Lord Shiva. But what makes Bel Patra leaves so special? According to Hindu mythology, the Bel tree is considered sacred and deeply connected to Lord Shiva. Moreover, its leaves are said to have purifying properties and are believed to symbolise devotion and faith.

Offering bel patra leaves to Lord Shiva is not just about following tradition or gaining blessings. It is also a way of connecting with the divine and understanding the deeper meaning behind the practice. In this blog post, we’ll be delving deeper into the significance of Bel Patra leaves and the mythology behind Lord Shiva’s association with this sacred tree. So sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey through the mystical world of Hindu mythology.

Significance of Bel Patra 

Bel patra, or the leaves of the bilva tree, hold a special significance in the worship of Lord Shiva. In Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is often depicted with a garland of bel patra around his neck. But what about these humble leaves make them so sacred and powerful? Be with us as we together will discover the significance of the holy leaves that are the favourite of Lord Shiva. 

Represents three aspects of Lord Shiva 

One of the most notable aspects of bel patra leaves is its tripartite structure( three parts), representing all three aspects of Lord Shiva- the creator, the preserver, and the destroyer. So, offering bel patra to Lord Shiva is a way of honouring and acknowledging all these aspects. Moreover, offering these leaves to Lord Shiva is a way of attracting balance and harmony to one’s life. 

Concept of Dharma 

Jumping to another significance of bel patra leaves is its connection to the concept of dharma. Bel patra or Bilva tree is believed to be the humble abode of goddess Lakshmi, representing wealth and prosperity. Therefore, by offering bel patra to Lord Shiva, one should perform a dharmic act that attracts the blessings of both Lord Shiva and the goddess Lakshmi and promotes prosperity and abundance in an individual’s life.

According to ancient Hindu scriptures such as Skanda Purana and Atharva Veda, the three leaves of bel patra represent the three eyes of Lord Shiva. Thus offering bel patra leaves is said to bring immense blessings and good fortune to the devotee. 

Medicinal Benefits 

In addition to its astrological and spiritual significance, bel patra is known for its medicinal properties. The leaves are rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and essential oils. As a result, they are used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for treating various ailments, including digestive disorders, skin conditions, and respiratory problems. These were the bel patra benefits.

Significance of Bel Patra: Legends Behind Why Bel Patra Are Favourite of Lord Shiva 

The humble leaf, bel patra, holds a special place in Hindu mythology and is steeped in a rich tradition of legends and folklore that have been passed down through generations. 

In this section of the blog, we will explore some of the famous legends behind why bel patra is offered to Lord Shiva and the deep spiritual significance that lies behind this simple act. 

Legend 1: Story of Samudra Manthan 

The most famous legend behind why bel patra is offered to Lord Shiva dates back to the time of Samudra Manthan. It is not hidden from anyone that Lord Shiva drank the entire poison to save the world from destruction. The poison was so powerful that it turned his throat blue, earning him the name ‘Neelkanth’. Moreover, the poison made Lord Shiva so burning that the world around him started to burn. One of the bel patra benefits is its soothing properties. So, keeping the soothing properties of Bel Patra in mind, Lord Shiva was given bel patra leaves.  

Lord Shiva was pleased with the offering and blessed the Bel tree, declaring it his favourite tree. He also stated that any offer made with Bel Patra would be considered as pure and holy as his own presence.

And so, to this day, due to the significance of Bel Patra continues to be offered to Lord Shiva in temples and homes worldwide as a symbol of devotion and gratitude for his selfless act of drinking the poison during the Samudra Manthan.

Legend 2: The Story of Hunter 

The second famous legend associated with the bel patra is the story of a hunter who unknowingly offered the bel patra to Lord Shiva Lingam. According to this legend, a hunter was chasing a deer in the forest when he came across a lingam under a bel tree. He was thirsty and hungry and decided to quench his thirst by plucking a few leaves from the tree and offering them to the lingam.

Unknown to the hunter, the lingam was a manifestation of Lord Shiva, who was pleased with the sincerity and devotion of the hunter. As a result, Lord Shiva appeared before him and blessed him with knowledge and wisdom, transforming him into a great sage.

Also Read: Why Does Lord Krishna Wear A Peacock Feather?

Significance of Bel Patra: Things You Should Know while offering Bel Patra to Lord Shiva 

Offering Bel Patra leaves to Lord Shiva is a sacred and significant ritual in Hinduism. As per the significance of bel patra it is believed to bring blessings and divine grace to the devotee. However, there are certain things that one should keep in mind while offering Bel Patra leaves to Lord Shiva. Here are some of the things you should never forget

Fragmented Leaves 

As per popular belief, offering fragmented bel patra leaves to Lord Shiva is not an auspicious thing to do. Offering fragmented leaves to Lord Shiva would not make him pleased and would not get you auspicious results. So, make sure the leaves that you are offering to Lord Shiva are fragrance-free. 

Using the smooth side 

While offering bel patra leaves to Lord Shiva, always keep in mind that the smooth side of the bel patra leaves should touch the surface of Lord Shiva. The top of the leaf should be facing you, and the stalk should be facing the Shiva Lingam.

Offer with mantras

While offering the Bel Patra leaves, reciting mantras and hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva is considered auspicious. As per the significance of bel patra chanting the “Om Namah Shivaya” mantra or any other hymn that resonates with you can help create a powerful connection with Lord Shiva.

Days for plucking Bel Patra leaves

The bel patra leaves cannot be plucked on any day. In Hindu mythology, plucking the leaves of bel patra for pooja on the day of Chaturthi, Ashtami, Navami and Amavasya is not considered to be auspicious, and one should not offer the leaves to Lord Shiva that are plucked on these days.

The leaves should be fresh

The Bel Patra leaves you to offer Lord Shiva should be fresh and clean. Make sure to pluck them from the tree on the day of the offering. Also, make sure there are no cuts or marks on the bel patra leaves that will be offered to Lord Shiva and should be washed properly. 

Odd number of leaves 

Offering an odd number of Bel Patra leaves to Lord Shiva is customary. Usually, three, five or eleven leaves are generally offered, but you can offer any odd number of leaves you feel comfortable with. However, in Hindu mythology there is an importance of 4 leaves in bel patra. As per popular beliefs, the person who gets a 4 leaves in bel patra ( which is very rare) is said to be very lucky and auspicious. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Also Read: Is Ravana The Father Of Sita?

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