Plant-Human Linkage as Depicted in Sanskrit Literature

Summary

Plant‑Human Linkage as Depicted in Sanskrit Literature surveys ancient Indian texts to illustrate how deeply human life is intertwined with plants. Starting with the Bṛhadāraṇyaka Upaniṣad’s analogy that likens human anatomy to a tree, the article notes that hair corresponds to leaves, skin to bark, flesh to inner bark and bones to wood, highlighting a structural parallel between humans and trees. Sanskrit works repeatedly emphasise that plants support every aspect of human life. In discussions of the four puruṣārthas—dharma, artha, kāma and mokṣa—trees are shown to aid in the pursuit of righteousness, prosperity, desire and liberation. Texts like Vṛkṣāyurveda encourage nurturing trees because their shade, flowers and fruit facilitate virtuous living. Literature describes laden trees bowing under the weight of fruit, symbolising humility, and praises trees for selflessly bearing heat, rain and wind to protect other beings. The article explores practical roles of plants as well: they supply fibres for garments, dyes and perfumes for cosmetics, and timber for household goods; they provide medicines, sacrificial wood and materials for rites of passage; and industries such as textiles and ornamentation flourished because of plant products. Puranic stories recount that planting certain trees grants heavenly merit or even liberation. By drawing on examples from epic poetry, Puranas and ritual manuals, the study portrays plants as benefactors whose generosity sustains both material and spiritual life.