Significance of Banyan tree
Synonyms: Fig tree, Ficus benghalensis, Shade tree
In Dutch: Banyanboom; In Finnish: Banyan puu; In Spanish: Árbol de baniano
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Banyan tree'
In Buddhism, the Banyan tree symbolizes strength, shelter, and interconnectedness across various narratives. It serves as a pivotal locale for meditation, offerings, pivotal events, and reflections, embodying both safety and duality in spiritual growth.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The type of tree located where the cripple displayed his skills, now significant in the story.[1] (2) A type of tree that can grow roots into the ground, discussed in the context of being uprooted by the struggle between the roc-king and the snake-king.[2] (3) The tree beneath which boys, including the Bodhisatta, played, serving as a specific geographical element in the story.[3] (4) The location where a child, destined to be the Bodhisatta, was abandoned.[4] (5) A large tree that provided shelter and resources, such as water and food, for the merchants in the story.[5]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The location where a guardian deity assisted Ankura by producing necessary provisions, representing the interconnectedness of gratitude and help among beings.[6] (2) The tree under which the confrontation between King Aliavaka and the ogre took place; it marked the ogre's territory.[7] (3) The large tree where the guardian deity resided, offering water and food to the hermits.[8] (4) A significant location where Sujata made offerings and where crucial events unfolded in her narrative.[9] (5) The sacred tree where the Bodhisatta sat to meditate and wait for his alms-round, which also became a site of worship and offerings by Sujata.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The location where the cripple sat and demonstrated his skill, representing a setting for creativity and interaction with children.[11] (2) The type of tree under which the Buddha waited for King Mahakappina and his ministers.[12]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) A tree under which a commander of the Yanga king sat, representing a place of authority and observation.[13]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) A tree referenced in a parable which plays a central role in the story of the three friends representing wisdom and support.[14]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The setting where the king of the Koshalas rested, symbolizing a moment of reflection amidst hardship.[15] (2) A type of tree under which the Exalted One spent his sixth week fasting in joy and ease.[16] (3) A huge tree on the banks of the river Varana, renowned for answering prayers and regarded with great veneration.[17]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) An example used to demonstrate the type of assertions that characterize Tradition, illustrating a belief in a mythical entity residing within.[18]
Hindu concept of 'Banyan tree'
In Hinduism, the Banyan tree symbolizes refuge, stability, and spiritual significance. Its expansive nature represents the potential for growth from small beginnings, while its sacred associations connect it to divine wisdom and liberation from sins.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A symbol of stability and eternity, often depicted as a location for spiritual insight and liberation.[19] (2) A sacred tree where one may witness the Brahman in wooden form and attain liberation from physical bondage.[20] (3) A sacred tree with a massive girth and height that symbolically represents spiritual liberation when one takes refuge beneath it.[21] (4) The location where Galava installed the image of the Sun-god.[22] (5) A sacred tree often linked to spirituality and used as a reference point in religious texts.[23]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) A significant tree that the sage saw towering above the water.[24] (2) Symbolically referred to as the Kalpa tree, it is a sacred entity where devotees circumambulate and seek liberation from sins.[25] (3) A symbolic tree known for its eternal nature, under which Markandeya finds refuge from the destruction around him.[26] (4) The location where the lord was seen by Brahma, symbolizing stability.[27] (5) A specific tree revered for its symbolic connection to immortality and the divine, particularly linked to Vishnu.[28]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A specific tree at which dying is believed to lead to the abode of lord Vishnu, signifying its spiritual relevance.[29] (2) A tree under which women are encouraged to worship Savitri, using offerings and rituals that involve fasting and performance art.[30] (3) A significant tree that is associated with offerings and spiritual practices meant for ancestors.[31] (4) A type of tree recommended to be planted on the east side of a property.[32]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A significant landmark where Shiva stationed himself during his military campaign.[33] (2) Symbolically used to illustrate the importance of the six-syllabled mantra, suggesting that it serves as the foundational seed for all spiritual knowledge.[34] (3) A sacred tree associated with the Siddhashrama, symbolizing spiritual significance in the narrative.[35] (4) A metaphor illustrating how something very small, like the seed, can contain immense potential and meaning.[36]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The resting place where Kripa and the other warriors stopped after leaving Duryodhana, symbolizing a moment of fatigue and concern.[37] (2) A large tree known for its wide canopy and multiple branches, providing shade and a place of gathering in the narrative.[38]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The location near which the gameplay reaches its culmination, specifically known as Bhandiraka.[39] (2) A large, majestic tree symbolizing endurance and wisdom, known for its capacity to provide shade and concentration.[40]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Large trees brought by citizens to decorate the city, symbolizing longevity and shelter, enhancing the festive ambiance.[41]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The location where king Uparicara placed his semen under the leaves before sending it to his wife via a falcon.[42]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A large tree found on the beautiful bank of Narmada where Kunjala lived.[43]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The sacred tree associated with Shiva, highlighting the interconnectedness of nature and spirituality in the context of the sacrifice.[44]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The tree called Bhandira, where the sons of Vasudeva explored and played while tending to their cattle.[45]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A type of tree that serves as a setting for significant conversations and events in folk tales, often symbolizing wisdom and connectivity.[46] (2) The location where the mendicant instructs King Trivikramasena to find a corpse for his incantation.[47] (3) A gigantic tree under which there is said to be a whirlpool, a significant symbol of danger during Shaktideva's journey.[48] (4) A type of tree that Nagadatta climbs to sound gongs and scare the birds.[49] (5) A significant place for Mrigankadatta and others, symbolizing rest and reflection amid their travels.[50]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) A large and ancient tree symbolizing stability and shelter, mentioned within a sacred context.[51]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) A type of tree described in the text as part of the landscape of the village, notable for its vast and sprawling branches.[52]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The banyan tree is identified as the best of trees.[53] (2) A type of tree characterized by its expansive canopy and aerial roots, symbolized here as imperishable.[54] (3) Large trees known for their expansive branches and aerial roots, found in Kundavana.[55] (4) A specific type of tree in Vrindavana where Krishna is said to have played the flute.[56]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Another type of tree associated with the location of goddess Shashthi's worship.[57] (2) Trees mentioned in the text that contribute to the enchanting beauty of Radha-desha.[58]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The location where Shaci-devi chose to perform her vow of worship for Goddess Sashthi.[59]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) An extensive and large tree known for its unique structure, referred to as Bhandira in the text.[60]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Represents the extent to which the Self can manifest into the visible universe, serving as an analogy for growth and evolution from the subtle to the gross.[61] (2) A metaphorical representation of the ideal person who provides support and guidance to others.[62] (3) The tree from which Uddalaka requests a fruit.[63] (4) A huge tree that grows from a very tiny seed, representing the concept that substantial outcomes can originate from small beginnings.[64]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A large tree referenced in the Upanishad text, from which the Subtle Essence grows and symbolizes the deeper spiritual truths.[65]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) Referred to as Vata, also called Nyagrodha; noted for its dark red fruits and its rarity in flower appearance.[66] (2) A prominent member of the ficus family, also known as Vata or Nyagrodha.[67]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) A type of large tree known for its extensive aerial roots and broad canopy, often found in tropical regions.[68] (2) A metaphorical representation of a rich person, serving others and extending help.[69]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) The source of milk used in the preparation of the medicine.[70]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 2: Minerals (uparasa)
(1) A large tree species whose milk and other extracts are vital in the medicinal preparation of mica.[71]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) Refers to the Vata tree, commonly known as the Indian fig tree.[72] (2) A tree known for its extensive root system, which can indicate the presence of undercurrents nearby.[73]
From: Matangalila and Hastyayurveda (study)
(1) A large tree in the northern quarter of the Himalayan Mountain where elephants were said to have alighted after flying through the air.[74]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) The type of tree under which Daksinamurti is depicted, often associated with longevity and wisdom.[75]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) A type of tree under which Dapple-back lays down to talk with the other characters.[76]
Jain concept of 'Banyan tree'
In Jainism, the Banyan tree symbolizes shelter, spiritual guidance, and growth. It represents stability during spiritual journeys, virtues leading to rewards, and profound meditative experiences, reflecting the interconnectedness of life and enlightenment.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A type of tree that has a unique growing habit where it sends down aerial roots that can become additional trunks.[77] (2) The tree under which Parshva stood motionless, symbolizing stability and grounding in his spiritual journey.[78] (3) A large tree noted for its sprawling branches and aerial roots, under which Rama seated Janaki to rest.[79] (4) Trees frequented by travelers suffering from cold, noted for their warmth.[80] (5) The large tree under which the characters stop in the garden outside the palace in Vijayapura.[81]
From: Naladiyar
(1) A large tree known for its aerial roots that symbolize strength and family ties.[82] (2) A metaphorical representation of how small acts of virtue can lead to substantial spiritual rewards.[83]
The concept of Banyan tree in local and regional sources
The Banyan tree symbolizes the complexity and interconnectedness of Indian civilization. It serves as a significant narrative location for rest, choices, and concealment, embodying strength, refuge, and spiritual gathering throughout various stories and traditions.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A metaphor used by Rabindranath Tagore to describe the complexity and expansive nature of Indian civilization, implying that it grows and spreads beyond its origins.[84] (2) The location where Kuni Bewa waits to see the Chief Justice, symbolizing both physical and emotional shelter during her quest for justice.[85] (3) A setting in the poem where travelers rest at night, symbolizing shelter and community in times of darkness.[86] (4) A metaphor used to describe the interconnectedness of Indian languages, representing diverse tongues as branches from a single tree.[87] (5) A metaphor used by Rabindranath Tagore to symbolize the civilization of India, illustrating the importance of understanding both its foundational elements and its growth over time.[88]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) A large tree on the riverbank in Sarjomghutu, which serves as a central meeting place for villagers.[89] (2) The tree which offers its opinion on the justice of the situation involving the snake and the prince.[90] (3) The location where the shikari spent the night while planning to confront the tiger.[91] (4) The tree where Jhalka positions himself to wait for the Rakhas.[92] (5) The location where Kara and Guja hide with the tiger's paunch and later observe the Raja's wedding party.[93]
From: Folk Tales of Gujarat (and Jhaverchand Meghani)
(1) A location where the younger Princess rests with her unconscious husband after their marriage.[94] (2) The tree used as a means of transportation by Gangli and the other women.[95] (3) The location where the female monkey climbs after taking her bath, suggesting a place of importance in the narrative.[96]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A large tree known for its aerial roots, mentioned in the lush landscape.[97] (2) A significant place where Dnyandev and Changdev meet; symbolic of rest and spiritual gathering, call the banyan tree of rest.[98]
From: Buddhist Ceremonies and Rituals of Sri Lanka
(1) A type of tree associated with the offering made by Sujata, highlighting the tradition of tree worship that predates Buddhism.[99]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The site where the Wooden Peacock machine lands when the Prince descends from the sky.[100] (2) A tree near the road where the Devatawa resides, who intervenes in the Princess's distressed journey.[101] (3) A tree pivotal in the story where the Rakshasi discovers the absence of the Queen while searching blindly for her.[102] (4) A large tree where the Eastern Liar hangs the bundle of cooked rice, symbolizing a place of temporary shelter and concealment.[103] (5) Another tree the boy decorated with cloths after encountering it on his way.[104]
The concept of Banyan tree in scientific sources
The Banyan tree, or Ficus benghalensis, is distinguished by its expansive growth and cultural significance, often featured in rituals and mythologies across various regions, highlighting its importance in both nature and tradition.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) Common name for Ficus benghalensis, recognized for its large spread and its role in various rituals and mythologies.[105]