The Mountain Mandara was an ardent devotee of Goddess Parvati , as she was the daughter of the Mountains and also because of her kindness. How he longed for her presence!
One day, Lord Shiva and Goddesss Parvati danced for hours and hours together. As Parvati wiped her forehead, sitting down to rest, her droplets of sweat fell on Mandara.
The Bilva Leaves
From her sweat grew a plant. It kept on growing until it became a beautiful tree. It’s twigs sprouted three leaves. It also bore fruits. Mandara did not know what to do with it. So, he plucked a few twigs of it and took it to Parvati.
He asked her, “This tree was born of your sweat. What must I do with it?” Parvati smiled at it and said, “This tree is really wonderful ! It shows the three eyes of Lord Shiva and also depicts the three stages of existence, birth, the journey of life and death. It also symbolizes the three worlds – the Earth, the Heavens and the world below. So three is an auspicious number. Shiva will be worshipped with these leaves only. And since, we are inseperable, worshipping Lord Shiva also means worshipping me. I am pleased with your devotion and penance”
Mandara having his prayers answered could not bear himself with joy. He prostrated before the beautiful Goddess.
And this is how the bilva came to life..
Hence to this day we worship Lord Shiva with the Bilva Leaves !!!
– Written by Netra Mahesh, age 9
Great story …very insightful and nicely written by the gifted child 🙂