Upanishads

COCONUT - THE HOLY FRUIT

COCONUT – THE HOLY FRUIT

Why Is Coconut Used In Almost All The Rituals Of Hinduism

Coconut is a popular tropical fruit that is found all over India. It is a fruit we enjoy consuming and a significant object in Indian culture.

But we are also familiar with seeing coconuts at temples and at home poojas. Breaking coconuts and performing poojas during inaugurations and special ceremonies is a must in Hindu culture.

So why is Coconut So Significant in Hinduism:

• It was created by Visvamitra Rishi to be offered to the Gods as a substitute for animal sacrifice.
• As a popular fruit offering to God, it is always used during Kalash Sthapana in Hinduism. It is also used during marriages and other occasions.
• It is also used during Abhishek ritual ceremonies.
• The 3 eyes of coconut represent the 3 eyes of Lord Shiva.
• The rough outside and the nourishing sweet inside of the coconut is a sign of nourishment.
• Coconut is also symbolic of a person’s ego. Breaking a coconut signifies the destruction of ego and movement of the soul towards salvation.
• Coconut is the plant equivalent of cow in Hinduism. It is the eternal giver which gives food, water, leaves, oil and rope. Thus it is significant to life as well.