Which Flowers Are Forbidden in Lord Shiva's Worship?
While Hinduism is rich in flowers that are traditionally offered for worship, there are certain flowers that are considered inauspicious and are not suitable for offering to Lord Shiva. This article explores the significance of these flowers and their specific reasons for being forbidden in Lord Shiva's worship.
Understanding the Significance of Flowers in Hindu Worship
Flowers play a significant role in Hindu worship, often symbolizing purity, devotion, and respect. However, certain flowers are deemed unsuitable for offering to specific deities due to myths and legends associated with them. This article will delve into the details of a few such flowers and the reasons behind their exclusion from Lord Shiva's worship.
Tabernaemontana Divaricata: The Tengri Flower
Tengri, also known as Tabernaemontana Divaricata, Crape Jasmine, East India Rosebay, or Nero’s Crown, is a flower that is generally considered inappropriate for worship of any Hindu deity. In Hindi and local dialects of Uttar Pradesh, it is referred to as Tengri. This title signifies its status as a substitute or abandoned flower.
The Tengri is often ridiculed as a flower that blossoms only when other flowers are not available, earning it the nickname 'abandoned flower.' For this reason, it is considered bad practice to offer this flower in worship, despite its widespread use in gardens and ornamental purposes. It is believed that offerings of Tengri will not be accepted by Lord Shiva, and hence it is to be avoided in any religious ceremony or worship.
The Ketaki Flower and the Curse of Lord Shiva
The Ketaki or Kewda flower, with its beautiful scent, is another flower that should not be offered to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu folklore, the Ketaki flower holds a significant story related to its exclusion from worship.
Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu once disputed about their supremacy. To settle the dispute, Lord Shiva appeared as a towering column of fire, challenging them to find the top and bottom of the column. Lord Brahma took the form of a swan and flew upwards, while Lord Vishnu transformed into a boar and dug deep into the earth. Neither of them could reach the top or bottom, but the Ketaki flower witnessed their failed attempts.
Trickery Leads to a Curse: The Ketaki falsely claimed to have seen the top of the column, and Lord Brahma believed her words. Lord Shiva, being enraged by the Ketaki's deceit, cursed the flower, stating that it would never be used in any auspicious ceremonies or offered to him in worship. This curse has been in effect ever since, making the Ketaki flower unsuitable for offering to Lord Shiva.
Champaka: Another Inauspicious Offering
The Champaka flower, also known as the Golden Champa or Yellow Champak, is not traditionally used in the worship of Lord Shiva. Just like the Ketaki, this flower too is forbidden due to a story from Hindu mythology.
According to the Shiv Purana, when Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu disputed about their supremacy, they sought the help of Lord Shiva to settle their arguments. Lord Shiva appeared as a fire column to test their abilities. The Ketaki flower falsely vouched for Lord Brahma, leading Lord Shiva to curse Ketaki, and in an extension, Champaka as well. This curse has made Champaka an unsuitable offering for Lord Shiva's worship.
Conclusion: These forbidden flowers, including Tengri, Ketaki, and Champaka, are not used in Lord Shiva's worship due to the myths surrounding their past deeds in religious controversies. Understanding and respecting these traditions can enhance one's spiritual journey and ensure that their offerings are well-received in sacred rituals.