Why is the Peepal tree worshipped in India

The Peepal tree or Ficus religiosa, also known as the sacred fig, is highly respected in Indian culture and spirituality. Peepal is a tree that has been revered since the beginning of civilization and has a wide range of medicinal properties in addition to its religious significance.
Ashwattha is another name for the peepal tree. In Hinduism, the tree is revered as a holy tree. Vasudeva, Chaitanya, and world tree are some of the other names for the peepal tree. Let’s explore its importance!

The peepal tree’s spiritual significance is the paradise of God, according to Chandogya Upanishad and Atharva Ved. It is believed that Lord Vishnu, with his better half, Lakshmi, resides on this tree on the day of Saturday, and due to this age-long belief, people consider pouring water on the roots of the tree to be good every Saturday. Lord Shiva is represented by the leaves, Vishnu by the trunk, and Brahma by the roots. The “Brahma Purana” also claims that Lord Vishnu was born under a Peepal Tree, so the “Peepal tree” also represents Lord Vishnu

The peepal tree is planted in the east direction of the house according to Vastu. After eight, eleven, or twelve years of its plantation, the Upanayana Ceremony is performed for the tree. All rituals of the ceremony are performed, and then the tree is married to the basil plant.
The individuals who worship the tree should live a simple life. This is the reason it is not advisable to plant peepal trees in the house, and if it has grown on its own, transfer it to the pot with due respect and worship it regularly.

Peepal tree is generally part of various cultural rituals and festivals. For example, on Vat Savitri Vrat, married women perform worship of the tree for long life for their husbands. Several temples also include a Peepal tree within their premises, where it is worshipped daily by the devotees.

In Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, the peepal tree (also known as the “Bodhi Tree”) is considered auspicious. This native deciduous tree of India is where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. This tree is revered across the Indian subcontinent, especially among Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists, as the Tree of Life, as a symbol of the Universe’s never-ending expanse.

Even in scientific terms, the Peepal is a real “Tree of Life.” It releases oxygen even at night, unlike other trees. Any portion of the Pipal tree, according to Ayurveda, can be used to treat a variety of health problems. This tree is known to help in several ailments, including diarrhea, epilepsy, and stomach problems.