TULASI O Brahmin! worship the Lord as Salagrama and consider the good actions as the rosary of Tulasi leaves. (Basant Hindol M. l, p. 1170) Episode: A woman named Tulasi, after having been engaged in religious austerities for a long time, wanted the boon of becoming the wife of Vishnu. When Lakshmi, the consort of Vishnu came to know of it, she cursed the woman and changed her into Tulasi plant. However, Vishnu is said to have given this assurance to his devotee that he would assume the form of the Salagrama and continue to live near her.
Tulasi plant is considered sacred to Vishnu and is said to have been produced at the churning of the milk-ocean. Comments: The Sikh Gurus considered the worship of Salagrama as idol-worship, therefore they rejected it. They laid stress on the worship of the Omnipresent Lord and also laid emphasis on good actions. See : Salagrama.
References :
1. Kohli,Surindar Singh ed,Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib 1993
Tulasi, also known as Tulsi or Vrinda, is a sacred plant in Hindu mythology and tradition. It holds immense spiritual significance and is revered as an earthly manifestation of Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu. Tulasi is often associated with purity, devotion, and divine blessings.
Key Aspects of Tulasi:
Divine Manifestation:
- Tulasi is considered an avatar of Lakshmi and is closely linked to Vishnu. In some legends, she is also associated with Vrinda, a pious devotee of Vishnu who was transformed into the Tulasi plant after her death.
- Tulasi is believed to be the consort of Vishnu in her plant form, and her leaves are offered in worship to Vishnu and his avatars, such as Krishna and Rama.
Symbolism:
- The Tulasi plant symbolizes purity, devotion, and spiritual growth. It is regarded as a bridge between heaven and earth, connecting devotees to the divine.
- Tulasi is also seen as a protector, warding off negative energies and purifying the environment.
Rituals and Worship:
- Tulasi is worshipped daily in many Hindu households, often planted in courtyards or special structures called Tulasi Vrindavan. Tuesdays and Fridays are considered particularly auspicious for Tulasi worship.
- The Tulasi Vivaha festival celebrates the ceremonial marriage of Tulasi to Vishnu, marking the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the wedding season in Hindu culture.
Medicinal and Environmental Importance:
- Beyond its spiritual significance, Tulasi is valued for its medicinal properties in Ayurveda. It is used to treat ailments such as colds, inflammation, and stress.
- The plant is also known for its ability to purify the air and repel insects, making it a vital part of traditional Indian homes.
Tulasi’s role in Hindu mythology and daily life underscores its importance as a symbol of devotion, health, and harmony.
