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Bilva Tree In Vedas

Bilva tree has been associated with Mahadev Shiva in Hindu religion since time immemorial and its dark trifoliate leaf symbolizes the three yes of Shiva. Bilva tree is also found in the Vedas.

The Yajur Veda refers to the use of bilva wood for the sacrificial post and says that bilva arose after the sun reappeared (Yajur Veda XX.1.8).  Atharva Veda (XX.136.13) states that the timber of the tree should not be burnt for fuel as it is highly sacred.

Sankhayana Aranyaka has an entire hymn in praise of the greatness of an amulet made from the tree – ira-mani bilva. (Sankhayana Aranyaka (XII.20).

The tree finds mention as part of Vedic sacrifices in Aitareya Brahmana (II.1), Satapatha Brahmana (XIII.4.4.8 and I.3.3.20) and Taittiriya Samhita (2.1.8.1 and 2).