New Delhi: In Hinduism, the Peepal tree is revered as the 'Tree of Gods' (Dev Vriksha). In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna himself declared— "Ashvatthah Sarvavrukshanam," meaning "Among all trees, I am the Peepal." While scriptures generally prohibit touching the Peepal tree on Sundays, worshiping and touching it on Saturdays holds immense spiritual significance.
It is believed that merely touching the Peepal tree on a Saturday can destroy poverty and alleviate severe defects (Doshas) in one's horoscope. Let’s explore the mythological legends and scientific reasoning behind this tradition.
According to the Padma Purana, during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), Goddess Lakshmi’s elder sister, 'Alakshmi' (the goddess of poverty and misfortune), emerged before her. Alakshmi sought a place to reside where there is discord and lack. Lord Vishnu assigned her a dwelling in the Peepal tree.
Later, when Goddess Lakshmi married Lord Vishnu, she expressed a desire to visit her elder sister. Lord Vishnu then decreed: "Every Saturday, Lakshmi and I shall reside in the Peepal tree." This is why it is believed that Lakshmi-Narayan are physically present in the Peepal tree on Saturdays. Anyone who worships or touches the tree on this day receives the boundless grace of Goddess Lakshmi, and poverty (Alakshmi) is banished from their life.
According to another legend, Sage Pippalad performed rigorous penance by consuming only Peepal leaves and eventually defeated Lord Shani. Shani Dev then promised: "Anyone who worships the Peepal tree on a Saturday will not have to face my malefic gaze." Consequently, offering water to the Peepal tree today is considered essential to reduce the impact of Shani Sade Sati and Dhaiya.
Offering Water: Offer water to the roots of the Peepal tree after sunrise. (This is even more meritorious during the current month of Vaishakh).
The Significance of Touch: After offering water, touch the trunk of the Peepal tree with both hands and state your wish or prayer.
Light a Lamp: In the evening, light a mustard oil lamp (Diya) under the tree.
Circumambulation (Parikrama): Walk around the Peepal tree (circumambulate) at least 7 times.
The Peepal tree is unique as it releases oxygen 24 hours a day. On Saturdays, when people go near the tree to worship and touch it, they receive an abundant supply of fresh oxygen. This helps in reducing mental stress and boosting physical energy.