The Sacred Fig Tree in Hinduism

Ficus religiosa is considered sacred in Hinduism and Jainism. All parts of the tree – roots, trunk, branches, leaves, and saplings – are regarded as beneficial in culture, spirituality, and Ayurvedic science. Ascetics often meditate under the tree.

Worshipping or walking around the tree is believed to bring wealth, prosperity, happiness, good fortune, and luck.

Scriptures like the Atharva Veda and Chandogya Upanishad describe the peepal tree as a paradise of gods.

According to the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna says “Among trees I am the holy fig-tree,” making it a symbolic representation of Krishna.

Furthermore, the tree is seen as an abode of the gods and ancestors, with Vishnu believed to reside in its roots, Keshav in the trunk, Narayana in the branches, and Hari in the leaves. Vishnu is believed to reside in the tree by day, Shani for an hour after sunset, and departed ancestors thereafter.

During Shraddha (ancestor rites), people may water the tree after sunset to receive blessings of ancestors.

In Ayurveda, many parts (leaves, bark, roots, and fruits) are used to treat health issues like asthma, digestive troubles, skin conditions, and more. It is also believed that Peepal has a special ability to release oxygen even at night, unlike other plants, believed to promote wellbeing.