Sacred trees and plants

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Why do we regard trees and plants as sacred?

 

From ancient times, Hindus have worshipped trees and regarded all

flora and fauna as sacred. This is not an old fashioned or

uncivilised practise. It reveals the sensitivity, foresight and

refinement of Hindu Culture. While modern man often works

to " conquer " Mother nature, ancient Hindus " worshipped " her.

 

The Lord, the life in us, pervades all living beings be they plants

or animals. Hence, they all all regarded as sacred. Human life on

earth depends on plants and animals. They give us the vital factors

that make life possible on earth : food, oxygen, clothing, shelter,

medicines etc. They lend beauty to our surroundings. They serve man

without expectation and sacrifice themselves to sustain us. They

epitomise sacrifice. If a stone is thrown on a fruit-laden tree, the

tree in turn gives fruit!

 

In fact, the flora and fauna owned the earth before man appeared on

it. Presently, the world is seriously threatened by the destruction

of the forest lands and the extinction of many species of vegetation

due to man's callous attitude towards them. We protect only what we

value. Hence, in Hinduism, we are taught to regard trees and plants

as sacred. Naturally, we will then protect them.

 

Hindu scriptures tell us to plant ten tress if, for any reason, we

have cut one. We are advised to use arts of the trees and plants only

as much as is needed for food, fuel, shelter etc. We also urged to

apologise to a plant or tree before cutting it to avoid incurring a

specific sin named soona. In our childhood, we are told stories of

the sacrifice and service done by plants and trees and also about our

duty to plant and nourish them. Certain trees and plants like tulsi,

peepal etc. which have tremendous beneficial qualities, are

worshipped till today.

 

It is believed that divine beings manifest as trees and plants, and

many people worship them to fulfill their desires or to please the

God.