Question

Which of the following tree is mentioned in Atharva Veda?

• A. Terminalia arjuna
• B. Ficus religiosa
• C. Cassia fistula
• D. Shorea robusta

Hint:

The Atharva Veda, one of the four Vedas, mentions various plants. The Peepal tree (Ficus religiosa, also known as Ashvattha) holds significant religious and symbolic importance and is frequently referenced in Vedic texts, including the Atharva Veda.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The Vedas are ancient Indian scriptures containing hymns, rituals, and philosophical treatises. Plants are frequently mentioned in them for medicinal, ritualistic, and symbolic purposes.
(1) Terminalia arjuna (Arjuna tree): Known for its medicinal properties, especially for heart ailments in Ayurveda. It is mentioned in later Ayurvedic texts.
(2) Ficus religiosa (Peepal or Ashvattha tree): This tree is highly revered in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. It is extensively mentioned in Vedic literature, including the Atharva Veda, often associated with deities, rituals, and as a symbol of the cosmos. The Atharva Veda contains hymns referring to the Ashvattha tree.
(3) Cassia fistula (Amaltas or Golden Shower tree): Known for its beautiful yellow flowers and medicinal uses.
(4) Shorea robusta (Sal tree): An important timber tree, also has cultural significance. While many plants are mentioned across Vedic and post-Vedic texts, the Peepal tree (Ficus religiosa) has a very strong and explicit presence in the Atharva Veda and other early scriptures. Ficus religiosa