The five divine trees in Hinduism—Kalpataru, Mandara, Parijata, Santana, and Harichandana—hold a significant place in Hindu religious tradition, particularly in the context of celestial gardens and the heavens, such as the garden of Indra, the king of the gods. These trees are revered not only for their mythological associations but also for their symbolic representation of virtues, prosperity, and the divine essence.
1. Kalpataru (The Wish-Fulfilling Tree)
Symbolism:
- Represents abundance, wish-fulfillment, and divine grace.
- Known to grant any wish or desire of those who seek its blessings.
Importance:
- Often compared to the ultimate benefactor, the Kalpataru is said to fulfill material and spiritual needs alike.
- Symbol of hope and abundance.
Stories:
- According to the Puranas, Kalpataru emerged during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) and was taken to Indra’s celestial garden.
- Associated with Lord Shiva and the goddess Lakshmi as a giver of wealth and spiritual attainment.
Modern Relevance:
- It symbolizes the need for sustainable abundance and responsible use of nature's resources.
- Metaphorically inspires individuals to achieve their full potential.
2. Mandara (Coral Tree or Erythrina)
Symbolism:
- Represents eternal beauty, purity, and spiritual enlightenment.
Importance:
- Flowers of the Mandara are sacred and often used in worship, especially in temples dedicated to Vishnu and Krishna.
- Represents transcendence from material desires to spiritual goals.
Stories:
- In the Mahabharata, Mandara flowers are said to adorn the gods, enhancing the splendor of the celestial gardens.
- Mandara is also linked with divine rituals and as an offering to deities.
Modern Relevance:
- The plant is cultivated for its medicinal properties and beauty, promoting eco-awareness and traditional knowledge.
3. Parijata (Night-Flowering Jasmine or Nyctanthes arbor-tristis)
Symbolism:
- Embodies love, devotion, and eternal longing.
- Its flowers, which fall before dawn, symbolize the ephemeral nature of life.
Importance:
- Parijata flowers are considered sacred in Hindu rituals and often used in worship.
Stories:
- A famous story from the Harivamsa Purana narrates how Krishna brought the Parijata tree from Indra’s garden for his consort Satyabhama, leading to a playful conflict with his other wife, Rukmini.
- The tree symbolizes divine love and human relationships.
Modern Relevance:
- Revered in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties.
- Its cultural presence in India reflects the significance of flora in spirituality and relationships.
4. Santana (The Tree of Progeny)
Symbolism:
- Symbol of fertility, family prosperity, and continuity of lineage.
Importance:
- Believed to bless couples with children and ensure the prosperity of future generations.
Stories:
- Santana is often invoked in stories related to human and divine procreation, ensuring the legacy of dynasties.
Modern Relevance:
- Metaphorically highlights the importance of family, community values, and continuity in human endeavors.
5. Harichandana (Golden Sandalwood Tree)
Symbolism:
- Represents divinity, purity, and spiritual tranquility.
- Often associated with the cooling and soothing aspects of sandalwood.
Importance:
- Its fragrant wood is used in rituals, deity adornments, and traditional medicines.
- Harichandana symbolizes the transcendence of ego, cooling down human passions and desires.
Stories:
- Harichandana trees are believed to be a favorite of Lord Vishnu and adorn the celestial gardens.
- Used in many Hindu rituals and ceremonies to honor deities.
Modern Relevance:
- Sustainable cultivation of sandalwood is seen as a key environmental and economic initiative.
Symbolism of the Five Trees Together
These divine trees collectively represent the interplay of material and spiritual prosperity. They symbolize:
- Abundance (Kalpataru)
- Purity and beauty (Mandara)
- Devotion and longing (Parijata)
- Continuity of life (Santana)
- Spiritual serenity (Harichandana)
Mythological Importance
- The garden of Indra, where these trees are located, is called Nandana and is considered a paradise that reflects the supreme beauty and bounty of heaven.
- These trees often feature in stories involving gods, sages, and mortals, symbolizing a connection between the divine and the earthly.
Modern-Day Relevance
- Environmental Consciousness: These trees inspire reverence for nature, highlighting the spiritual and material benefits of preserving flora.
- Cultural Identity: They remind us of the interconnectedness of mythology, spirituality, and the environment in Indian culture.
- Medicinal and Ecological Value: Many of these trees have uses in traditional medicine and serve as important resources for biodiversity.
Similar Mythological Trees
- Bodhi Tree: Under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
- Ashvattha Tree: Considered sacred in Hinduism and mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita.
- Vata Tree (Banyan): Symbol of longevity and shelter.
Unknown Facts
- The concept of celestial trees exists in other cultures, such as the Norse Yggdrasil, the World Tree connecting the heavens, earth, and underworld.
- Parijata is sometimes linked with themes of unfulfilled desires, inspiring art, poetry, and literature.
These divine trees are not just mythological elements but embody lessons and values relevant to both ancient and modern societies.