Aśvattha (Inverted Cosmic Tree)(अश्वत्थ)
Universal Indic Cosmogony
"Ūrdhva-mūlam adhaḥ-śākham" (Rooted above in the unmanifest Supreme, branches spreading downwards as the phenomenal world). It symbolizes the eternal cosmic tree of existence, continuously releasing life-giving oxygen day and night, whose branches of karma must be severed by the axe of non-attachment (Asaṅga-śastrena).
Visual Iconography & Construction
The sacred fig tree (*Ficus religiosa*) with distinctive fluttering heart-shaped leaves ending in prolonged tips.
Ritual Usage & Somatic Application
Circumambulated in the early morning by pilgrims for vitality and karmic pacification; revered as the living abode of Brahmā, Viṣṇu, and Śiva.
Philosophical & Cosmic Signification
"Ūrdhva-mūlam adhaḥ-śākham" (Rooted above in the unmanifest Supreme, branches spreading downwards as the phenomenal world). It symbolizes the eternal cosmic tree of existence, continuously releasing life-giving oxygen day and night, whose branches of karma must be severed by the axe of non-attachment (Asaṅga-śastrena).
Canonical Sources & Vedic Citations
Kaṭha Upaniṣad 2.3.1, Bhagavad Gītā 15.1, Ṛgveda 1.164.20