1870.] The Vdstu Yaga. 223 



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Therefore never cut down any tree that bears good flowers or fruits, if you 

 desire the increase of your family, of your wealth and of your future happiness. 



Superstition has associated supernatural properties with, many 

 plants, and several have been identified with the gods. 



The durvd, a kind of grass very common in all parts of India, 

 is excellent fodder for cattle. It is an essential article in the 

 worship of all gods. It is said to have originated from the thigh of 

 Vishnu. 



The religious fig tree makes one rich, the Jonesia Asoka destroys 

 all sorrow, the Ficus venosa is said to be useful in sacrifices, 

 and the Nim gives much happiness. Syzygium Jambolanum, pro- 

 mises heavenly bliss, and the pomegranate a good wife. Ficus 

 ghmerata cures diseases, and Butea frondosa gives the protection 

 of Brahma. The Calotropis gigantea is useful as it pleases the sun 

 every day, the bel-tree pleases Siva, and the Pdtald pleases Parvati. 

 The Apsaras are pleased with Bombax malabaricitm, and the Gandhar- 

 vas with Jasminum, the Terminalia chebula increases the number of 

 servants, and the Mimusops elenchi gives maid-servants. The Tdl is 

 injurious to children, and the Mimusops elenchi productive of 

 large families. The cocoa-nut gives many wives, and the vine 

 gives a beautiful body ; the Cordia latifolia increases desires, and the 

 Pandanus odoratissimum destroys all.* 



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