Flowers play a significant role in Hindu worship, symbolizing devotion, purity, and the beauty of creation. However, not all flowers are considered suitable for offering to the gods. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind the prohibition of certain flowers in Hindu rituals and shed light on the fascinating stories associated with these floral offerings.
Vastu Shastra: Flowers to Avoid During Puja
According to the rules of Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian science of architecture and design, there are specific flowers that should not be offered to God during puja. Acharya Indu Prakash, a renowned Vastu expert, shares valuable insights into this aspect of Hindu worship.
As per Vastu Shastra, Akshat (rice), Madar, and Datura flowers should not be offered to Lord Vishnu. The reason behind this prohibition lies in the properties and symbolism associated with these flowers.
Reasons Behind the Prohibition
The choice of flowers for worship is based on their fragrance, color, and symbolism. Each flower carries a unique energy and vibration, which affects the environment and the individual offering them. Let's delve deeper into the reasons behind the prohibition of specific flowers:
1. Akshat (Rice)
In Hindu rituals, rice symbolizes abundance, sustenance, and fertility. However, during puja, uncooked rice or Akshat is not offered to Lord Vishnu. This is because Lord Vishnu is believed to be the preserver and protector of the universe, and offering Akshat to Him may disrupt the delicate balance of creation.
2. Madar
Madar, also known as Calotropis gigantea, is a plant with beautiful white and purple flowers. It is believed to be associated with Lord Shiva. However, offering Madar flowers to Lord Vishnu is considered inauspicious. The reason behind this belief is not explicitly mentioned in the available information, but it may be rooted in the contrasting energies and symbolism of these two deities.
3. Datura
Datura, also known as Thorn Apple or Angel's Trumpet, is a plant with trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom at night. It is believed to have strong hallucinogenic properties and is often associated with Lord Shiva. Offering Datura flowers to Lord Vishnu is considered inauspicious due to their association with Lord Shiva and their potentially intoxicating nature.
Stories Behind the Prohibition
The prohibition of certain flowers in Hindu worship is often accompanied by intriguing stories that offer insights into the symbolism and significance of these floral offerings. Let's explore two such stories:
The Legend of Champaka Tree and Sage Narada
In the town of Gokarna, there once stood a magnificent Champaka tree with abundant flowers. Sage Narada, on his way to a temple, noticed this tree and was captivated by its beauty and fragrance. One day, he encountered a Brahmin who refrained from plucking the flowers when he saw Sage Narada. Curious, Sage Narada asked the Brahmin about his actions.
The Brahmin revealed that he was on his way to a nearby village and had stopped by the Champaka tree to enjoy its fragrance. Intrigued by the Brahmin's response, Sage Narada decided to investigate further. He hid and observed the Brahmin plucking the flowers and hiding them in a basket. When Sage Narada questioned the Champaka tree, it denied anyone plucking its flowers.
Sage Narada then discovered that the flowers were being offered to Lord Shiva's lingam by an evil Brahmin. Shocked by the deceit, Sage Narada cursed the Champaka tree, decreeing that its flowers would never be accepted in the worship of Lord Shiva. He also cursed the evil Brahmin to be born as a demon and attain salvation only when Lord Ram killed him.
The Curse of Ketaki Flower
In another tale, Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu engaged in a dispute over their supremacy. To settle the argument, Lord Shiva manifested as a column of fire, challenging them to find its origin and end. Lord Vishnu took the form of a boar and went down, while Lord Brahma transformed into a swan and flew up.
Unable to find the base of the column, Lord Vishnu returned and admitted defeat. Meanwhile, Lord Brahma came across a Ketaki flower during his upward journey. Upon his return, Lord Brahma falsely claimed that he had found the Ketaki flower at the top of the column, using it as evidence of his victory.
Lord Shiva, angered by Lord Brahma's lie, cursed him that he would not be worshipped in temples, while the Ketaki flower was cursed to never be used in the worship of Lord Shiva. This mythological story explains why the Ketaki flower is not offered to Lord Shiva.
Takeaways
Offering flowers to the gods is an integral part of Hindu worship. However, certain flowers are considered inauspicious and should not be offered to specific deities. The reasons behind these prohibitions lie in the symbolism, energies, and stories associated with these flowers. By understanding the significance and stories behind floral offerings, we can deepen our connection with the divine and appreciate the rich tapestry of Hindu rituals.