Maha Shivratri, one of the most revered Hindu festivals, celebrates the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, marking a night of great significance in Hindu mythology. Observed annually in reverence to Lord Shiva, the destroyer and transformer in the Hindu Trinity, devotees across the globe engage in fasting, prayer, and meditation during this auspicious occasion. As you celebrate Maha Shivratri 2024, we at LatestLY have brought together the list of significance of Bael Patra that you must know. Why is Bel Patra and Milk Offered to Lord Shiva? 6 Other Things You Must Do For Good Luck.

Maha Shivratri 2024 will be observed on Friday, March 8. According to ancient scriptures, offering Bael leaves to Lord Shiva is believed to be highly auspicious and holds immense significance. Legend has it that the Bael tree is considered sacred to Lord Shiva, and its leaves, which have a trifoliate shape, symbolise the three aspects of divinity - Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Devotees believe that offering Bael leaves to Lord Shiva on Maha Shivratri pleases the deity and brings blessings of spiritual growth, purification, and inner transformation.

1. Sacred Offering: Bael leaves are considered highly sacred in Hindu tradition and are believed to be dear to Lord Shiva. Offering these leaves to Lord Shiva on Maha Shivratri is considered an act of devotion and reverence.

2. Symbolism of Trifoliate Shape: The trifoliate shape of Bael leaves symbolises the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, the three principal deities in Hinduism. By offering Bael leaves, devotees acknowledge and honour the divine aspects of the Supreme Being.

Bel Patra (Photo Credits: Wikimedia Commons)

3. Purification: Bael leaves are known for their medicinal properties and aromatic fragrance. Offering these leaves to Lord Shiva is believed to purify the atmosphere and surroundings, creating an auspicious environment for worship and meditation on Maha Shivratri.

4. Spiritual Significance: It is believed that Bael leaves have the power to absorb negative energy and purify the mind and soul of the devotee. Offering Bael leaves to Lord Shiva is a means to seek spiritual cleansing, inner peace, and divine blessings. What Is the Significance of Offering Dhatura to Lord Shiva on Mahashivratri?

5. Worship Rituals: Bael leaves are an integral part of the worship rituals performed during Maha Shivratri. Devotees offer Bael leaves and other traditional items like water, milk, honey, and fruits as part of the elaborate puja ceremonies in honour of Lord Shiva on this auspicious day.

On Maha Shivratri, devotees often seek out Bael leaves to offer them with utmost reverence, honouring the divine connection with Lord Shiva and invoking his grace for spiritual upliftment and divine blessings.

Wishing everyone a Happy Maha Shivratri 2024!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 08, 2024 08:49 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).