Why coconut is offered in temples?
Why only coconut and banana are offered in the temples? Have you ever been to a temple and wondered why they always give you coconut and banana as offerings? It’s a bit puzzling, isn’t it? Well, today, we’re going to explore this tradition and find out why temples prefer these two fruits over others.
Get ready for a journey into the fascinating world of temple offerings, explained in simple terms.
Why coconut is used in rituals?
Coconuts are awesome! Not just because they taste delicious and make refreshing drinks, but also because they hold a special place in temple rituals. Here’s why:
- Symbol of Purity: Coconuts are considered pure. So just like our intentions when we visit a temple. They symbolize the pure heart with which we approach the divine.
- Three Eyes of Lord Shiva: Some believe that the three dark marks on a coconut represent the three eyes of Lord Shiva. Offering a coconut is like offering our prayers directly to God.
- Breaking Ego: When we break a coconut and offer it, we symbolically break our ego and surrender to a higher power, seeking blessings and guidance.
Why banana is kept for God?
Bananas aren’t just a tasty snack; they have a unique significance in temple offerings too:
- Ease of Distribution: Bananas are easy to distribute among devotees. Temples aim to provide offerings that everyone can share and enjoy together.
- Simplicity: Just like our prayers, bananas are simple and unpretentious. Their simplicity reminds us to approach the divine with humility.
- Fulfilling the Hungry: Temples often provide food to the less fortunate, and bananas are a nutritious option for those in need.
Why only Coconut and Banana are offered in the temples ?
Now, let’s talk about something interesting. Not all temples offer only coconut and banana. There are variations based on tradition and region:
- Flowers and Sweets: Some temples offer flowers and sweets in addition to coconut and banana. The choice of offerings may depend on local customs and beliefs.
- Diverse Cultures: In India, where temples are diverse and rich in culture, you might find a wide range of offerings, from fruits to special dishes.
What happens to the coconut and banana after the offerings?
- Blessings: The offerings are usually blessed by the priests and then returned to the devotees as Prasad (blessed food). It’s like receiving a piece of divine grace.
- Distribution: Some temples especially larger ones, the offerings might be used to feed the temple staff. Donating the food to the less fortunate is considered a good deed.
- Environmentally Friendly: Coconuts and banana peels are biodegradable, which means they don’t harm the environment. Nature gets its share too!
So, there you have it! The reason why temples offer coconut and banana is all about symbolism, tradition, and sharing. It’s a beautiful way to remind us of humility, purity, and our connection to the divine.
So next time you receive a coconut and a banana at a temple, remember the deeper meaning behind these simple gifts. Remember, temple offerings are a small part of a much bigger spiritual journey, and they hold a special place in the hearts of those who seek solace and blessings within those sacred walls.
Another great example of holy fruit banana is that Lord Ganesha married banana tree before marrying Riddhi- Siddhi or Buddhi. If you are not aware you must read this here.