Week 10 Lab: Storybook Research

Image result for banyan tree
Banyan Tree
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Research and background for the next entry in my storybook. This information is for the Banyan tree and Krishna.

Link 1
This website talks about the ancient meaning and uses surrounding the tree.

  • Generally planted in front of temples of Krishna or Shiva
  • When the leaves rustle the deities living in the tree are the cause
  • The botanical embodiment of the universal soul
  • Provides fulfillment of wishes and other material gains
  • Symbolizes longevity and Trimurti
    • Vishnu is the bark.
    • Brahma is the roots
    • Shiva is the branches
Link 2
The site talks mainly about a specific holy tree but it has other good general information and talks about Krishna's role a bit.

  • Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita before the battle in the Mahabharata by the Banyan
    • Krishna says "there is a banyan tree which has its roots upwards and its branches down, and the Vedic hymns are its leaves. One who knows this tree is the knower of the Vedas."
    • The Vedas are the oldest scriptures in Hinduism
  • Krishna is believed to reside in the leaf of the Banyan tree
General information and history behind the Banyan.
  • The tree is a symbol of humanity's potential to be perfect
  • The inside of the tree holds the entire cosmos
    • Krishna's mother said that she saw the entire cosmos within him; another connection between the Banyan and Krishna
  • Represents the cycle of death and rebirth and protects the spirits after death
    • The leaves are often used in cremation ceremonies
  • After Krishna devoured the universe (spoiler?) he turned himself into a child and wrapped up in a Banyan leaf
  • Krishna said "of all trees I am the Banyan tree"

I still need some more information on the relationship between Krishna and the Banyan but I think this a pretty good start. 






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