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Why do we offer a coconut? |
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In India one of the most common offerings in a temple is
a coconut. It is also offered on occasions like weddings, festivals, the use
of a new vehicle, bridge, house etc. It is offered in the sacrificial fire
whilst performing
homa. The coconut is broken and placed before the Lord. It is later
distributed as
prasaada. |
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The fibre covering of the dried coconut is removed except
for a tuft on the top. The marks on the coconut make it look like the head
of a human being. The coconut is broken, symbolising the breaking of the
ego. The juice within, representing the inner tendencies ( vaasanas)
is offered along with the white kernel - the mind, to the Lord. |
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A mind thus purified by the touch of the Lord is used as
prasaada ( a
holy gift). In the traditional
abhishekha ritual
done in all temples and many homes, several materials are poured over the
deity like milk, curd, honey, tender coconut water, sandal paste, holy ash
etc. Each material has a specific significance of bestowing certain benefits
on worshippers. Tender coconut water is used in
abhisheka rituals
since it is believed to bestow spiritual growth on the seeker. |
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The coconut also symbolises selfless service. Every part
of the tree -the trunk, leaves, fruit, coir etc. Is used in innumerable ways
like thatches, mats, tasty dishes, oil, soap etc. It takes in even salty
water from the earth and converts it into sweet nutritive water that is
especially beneficial to sick people. It is used in the preparation of many
ayurvedic medicines and in other alternative medicinal systems. |
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The marks on the coconut are even thought to represent
the three-eyed Lord Shiva and therefore it is considered to be a means to
fulfill our desires. |
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