763 – Veneration of Trees in Hinduism

We were taught to respect Mother Earth and treat the trees with respect. Many trees are considered sacred to specific deities. Trees become objects of worship or shrines are built beneath them. Mango trees are considered holy because they are associated with many rituals. Tulasi is considered sacred to the disciples of Vishnu, Wood apple or Bilva tree is considered sacred to disciples of Shiva. The neem tree wards off evil. Continue reading

452 – God is with us

Do we need to be reminded that God is with us, in our midst? Do we need these adjectives to describe Christmas: colorful, sparkly, merry, bright, precious etc.? Lights, candles, trees which are evergreen, stars, bells, holly, peppermint canes etc. What are these symbols representing? Continue reading