Why are Bilva leaves offerd to lord Shiva


Bilva leaves are dear to Lord Shiva or Mahadeva and they have close links with Mahalakshmi, the consort of Lord Hindus
  
Bilva tree(s) is grown  in all major shiva temples.  Besides Lakshmi, Goddess Parvati, Goddess Gauri live in this sacred tree. Bilva leaves are widely used by the priests for temple ritual and prayers, particularly when chanting mantras in Sanskrit. This practice has been in vogue for several centuries. The tree, being holy and dear to Lord shiva, the dry  trunk should not be cut to pieces and used as fuel. The Santhal tribes of Northern  India worship the tree stumps and offer prayers. Hindus believe  that our Karma will get considerable relief  if Bilva leaves are offered to the Shiva Linga - a way of reducing our sins committed knowingly or un-knowingly. The trifoliate form of leaves symbolize the trident that Shiva holds in his right hand

How to choose Bel Patra?

While choosing the Bel leaves to offer on Shivling, make sure that there should not be more stripes on the Bel leaves. Many leaves of Belpatra have chakras and stripes which should not be used in worship. It is said that Belpatra containing Chakra and Vajra is considered to be fragmented.

While sorting for offering Bel leaves on Shravan Somvar, make sure that Bel leaves should not be cut or torn from anywhere. If you have not been able to collect more bel leaves, then one Belpatra can also work, but keep in mind that it should not be torn from anywhere

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