In Hindu worship, Tulsi, or holy basil, holds a revered position among the sacred offerings presented to deities. In this blog we will discuss Why tulsi is not offered to Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha and Maa Durga?
According to the Shiva Purana, Lord Shiva disapproves of Tulsi leaves being offered on the Shivling. Hindu culture is rich in captivating stories and beliefs surrounding its deities.
The fascinating stories in Hindu mythology not only entertain but also convey hidden messages. Even in worship, there are scientific and mythological significance behind the offerings. Devotees present various offerings to their deities with the hope of seeking their blessings and guidance.
The tradition surrounding Tulsi has a rich history, woven from a tapestry of myths, legends, and religious texts.
Why tulsi is not offered to Lord Shiva?
In the Puranas, a demon named Jalandhar terrorized the gods and goddesses, but his wife Vrinda's devotion to Lord Vishnu protected him.
Vrinda's love for her husband and her virtue were unwavering, despite his brutality. The Gods sought Lord Shiva's help to defeat Jalandhar, and Lord Vishnu devised a plan.
Lord Vishnu disguised himself as Jalandhar, and Vrinda, believing him to be her husband, touched his feet, breaking her virtue. Lord Shiva then defeated Jalandhar, and Vrinda, realizing her mistake, cursed Lord Vishnu to become stone (Saligram).
The Gods' problem was solved, but Vrinda, heartbroken, refused to let any part of her be used in Lord Shiva's worship.
Vrinda was reborn as Holy Basil (Tulsi) and decreed that her leaves be offered only to Lord Vishnu, making his worship complete.
Why Tulsi is not offered to Lord Ganesha?
in Rudrayamal (Sanskrit: रुद्रयामल), Tulsi has been prohibited for Ganapati also.
तुलसी ब्रह्मरूपा च सर्वदेवमयी शुभा ।
सर्वदेवमयी सा तु गणेशस्य प्रिया नहि ॥
Another tale speaks of Tulsi's love for Lord Ganesha, but her father's disapproval led to a curse that forbade their union. The Padma Purana identifies Tulsi as Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu's partner, making it inappropriate to offer her to other gods.
Some believe Tulsi's purity and sacredness reserve her for Lord Vishnu alone, while others see her as a symbol of divine femininity, unfit for male deities.
Although the reasons are varied, this tradition roots itself in Hindu mythology and culture. Despite theories that the "no Tulsi for Ganesha" rule emerged later, Hindus largely adhere to this tradition, honoring Tulsi's sanctity and showing reverence for the gods.
Why Tulsi is not offered to Durga?
Tulsi is not offered to Maa Durga as well. In Tantra Shiromani Rudrayamal (Sanskrit: रुद्रयामल), Tulsi has been clearly prohibited for Bhagwati Chandika. Since Chandika is one form of Maa Durga hence Tulsi must not be offered to any Maa Durga form (Swaroop).
तुलसीघ्राणमात्रेण क्रुद्धा भवति चण्डिका ॥
अर्थ: तुलसी की गंधमात्र से देवी चण्डिका क्रुद्ध हो जाती हैं।
Meaning: Goddess Chandika becomes angry with the mere smell of Tulsi.
Another reference which can be found in Shiva Purana - Uma Samhita - Chapter - 51, verse 48
विष्णुक्रान्तां च तुलसीं वर्जयित्वाऽखिलं सुमम् ।
देवीप्रीतिकरं ज्ञेयं कमलं तु विशेषतः॥
अर्थ: विष्णुक्रान्ति और तुलसी को छोड़कर सभी फूल देवी को प्रसन्न करते हैं। कमल का फूल उन्हें बहुत प्रिय है।
Meaning: All flowers, except Visnukranta, and Tulasi. delight the goddess. The lotus flower is very much liked by her.
Tulsi in hindu mythology
In Hinduism, the Tulsi plant, known scientifically as Ocimum tenuiflorum, holds a revered position as a symbol of spiritual significance and divine manifestation. It is believed to embody the essence of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu's consort, and is worshiped with great devotion.
The Tulsi plant is considered a purifier, capable of dispelling negative energies and fostering spiritual growth. Its leaves are an integral part of religious ceremonies and are also consumed for their medicinal properties.
It is also associated with marriage and fertility. The sacredness of Tulsi has been passed down through generations, representing purity, love, and the power of devotion.
