Cutting down a Peepal tree is strongly discouraged and often considered a serious offense primarily due to its profound religious and cultural significance in Indian traditions.
According to deeply rooted Indian beliefs, the Peepal tree (Ficus religiosa) holds a very special place.
Cultural and Religious Significance
The main reasons why cutting a Peepal tree is avoided stem from its sacred status:
- Abode of Deities: A widely held belief is that the Peepal tree is the abode of several Hindu gods and goddesses. This makes the tree sacred and harming it is seen as disrespectful to the deities residing within.
- Spiritual Properties: It is believed to have spiritual properties, often associated with purity, longevity, and even the presence of the divine trinity (Brahma at the roots, Vishnu in the trunk, and Shiva in the leaves).
- Symbol of Enlightenment: The Peepal tree is also known as the Bodhi tree, under which Siddhartha Gautama is said to have attained enlightenment, becoming the Buddha. This links it deeply to Buddhism as well.
- Ancestral Connections: In some traditions, it is believed that ancestors or spirits reside in the tree, adding another layer of reverence.
As the provided reference states: "According to Indian beliefs, the Peepal tree is considered to be the abode of several Hindu gods and goddesses, and it is believed to have spiritual and medicinal properties. As such, cutting down a Peepal tree is generally considered to be a serious offense and is often discouraged." (08-Jun-2018)
Medicinal Properties
Beyond its spiritual significance, the Peepal tree is also traditionally associated with medicinal properties. Various parts of the tree, including its bark, leaves, and fruits, have been used in traditional medicine systems for treating a range of ailments.
Environmental Role
While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reference regarding why cutting is forbidden from a belief perspective, the Peepal tree is also known for releasing oxygen even at night, unlike many other trees. This significant environmental benefit further contributes to the general respect and protection afforded to the species.
In summary, the primary deterrent against cutting a Peepal tree is its immense spiritual and religious importance in Indian culture, where it is revered as sacred and associated with divine presence and spiritual well-being.
