Tradition and Culture- Illustrated Weekly Magazine 1936

 

The article "Tree and Serpent Worship" by S. Sankarasubramania Aiyar explores the remnants of ancient religious practices still observed in modern times. It describes the worship of trees, particularly the pipal tree, which is considered sacred and is associated with deities. The rituals involve offerings like flowers, fruits, and milk, and ceremonies are often performed by Brahmin priests.
Key Highlights:

Special Trees: Not all trees are worshipped; specific ones like the pipal tree hold particular significance.
The pipal is often associated with divine beings, and rituals around it are deeply embedded in faith and cultural tradition.


Old Forms of Worship: These practices are among the earliest forms of human spirituality, rooted in the belief in nature's power and divine connections.
Worship often involves rituals, symbolic acts, and offerings to invoke blessings or ward off evil.


Snakes in Worship: Snakes are seen as symbols of both protection and danger, often associated with fertility and guardianship.
Their reverence might stem from the fear they invoke and their mystical association with deities.


Faith and Healing: Faith plays a critical role, with beliefs in the power of rituals to heal ailments or bring prosperity.
The article mentions practices like "hole medicine," which might refer to ancient healing methods linked to trees or snake symbolism.


Modern Relevance: Although these practices are ancient, they continue to survive in rural areas and among communities that retain their cultural heritage.
The rituals have adapted over time but remain rooted in their original spiritual significance.

The article reflects on the persistence of these practices as a testament to humanity's enduring connection with nature and spirituality. Let me know if you'd like a deeper transcription or focus on a specific part of the text!

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Now Don't forget to see Ovaltine Rusks Ad. on the same page which was a favourite snack of those days