Have you ever wondered why you keep seeing this Trifuli Patti (Bel Patra leaf) in almost all Hindu worships and why it is important?
What is the importance of Bel Patra?
Bel tree is considered very sacred and sacred tree in Hinduism. The leaves of this tree are usually trifolic, meaning a leaf divided into three leaves – which is believed to represent the three eyes of Lord Shiva.
According to Hindu mythology, the leaf also represents the holy trinity – Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh i.e. Shiva. Apart from all the symbolism, the deeply revered Bel Leaf or Bel Patra is responsible for it, it is also known to be a favorite of Lord Shiva. Therefore, devotees can get blessings from him by offering Bilva or Bel Patra to Shiva.
The Shivapurana considers this leaf as one of the six divine writings used to worship Lord Shiva. It is also used in the worship of many Hindu deities.
Why is Bel Patra offered to Lord Shiva?
The vine leaves are trifolate in appearance. The scientific reason behind offering the bell letters to Lord Shiva is that it has a cooling effect. It cools the fire element of Shiva linga. The Purana mentions the origin of the vine tree. The sculptures state that the Bel Patra originated from the sweat or sweat of Goddess Parvati. A different part of this tree has a different incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, also lives in the vine tree. That is why it is considered so sacred and used to offer to Lord Shiva.
What is the mantra to chant during the offering of Bel Patra?
Devotees and sages are often found chanting the Bilvapatram mantra. To get the blessings of Lord Shiva, one should chant the following Bel Patra Mantra while offering Bel Patra:
“Lakshmyaascha stana utpannam Mahaadeva sadaa priyam, Bilva vriksham prayachchhaami eka bilvam Shivaarpanam.Darshanam bilva vrikshasya sparshanam paapanaashanam, Aghorapaapasamhaaram eka bilvam shivarpanam.”
Spirituality: It originated from the heart of Lord Lakshmi, the Bilva tree is once dear to Mahadev. Therefore I ask this Bilva tree to offer a leaf of vine to Lord Shiva. Visiting the bilva tree and touching it relieves sin. The most terrible deeds are destroyed when the Bilva Patra is offered to Lord Shiva.
Bel letters can also be offered by chanting only the Shiva Panchakshara Mantra:
“Om Namah Shivay”
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Is there any specific number of Bel Patra to be offered to Lord Shiva?
There is no specific number of bell leaves. It can range from 1 to lakhs depending on the strength and availability. The main thing that matters is a pure intention.
What are the Vedic rules to follow before plucking Bel Patra Leaves?
Bell letters or any sacred holiday or flower should be offered with clean hands. Take a bath and put on clean clothes. Pray to the tree and get permission to fall part of it. This is the best way to drop a bell letter. After plucking, Bel Petra should be washed and cleaned with water. Write “Om” with sandalwood/sandalwood leaves and then offer it to Lord Shiva. One should pluck the vine leaf and the upper part of the leaf with the stalk towards the Pindi.
What are the days on which Bilva Patra should not be plucked?
According to the scriptures, these days one should not offer bilva Patra –
Monday, Amavasya, Makar Sankranti, Purnima, Ashtami, Navami.
Bilva Patra can neither be reused nor offered to Shiva Linga again. The proposed Bilva Patra can be taken for other religious or spiritual uses according to the instructions of the Pravin Brahmins.
Since every part of the vine tree is said to include Goddess Parvati, it is considered an ideal tree to worship Lord Shiva. It is said that even if someone touches the bell letter, he is freed from all negativity, sins and diseases.