History of Indian and Eastern Architecture v1.c8.s16.26

v1.c8.s16.26

² Though Siva is always represented with a black snake as one of his symbols there does not seem to be any very close connection between Snake worship and Saivism, though there are some coincidences that may point that way ; in Kanara, Nâga images are set up facing the east, under the shade of two pîpal trees — a male and female growing together and married with proper rites. Beside them grow a margosa and bilva tree as witnesses ; now these latter trees are more or less consecrated to Siva. On the other hand no trace of Tree-worship seems to be mingled with the various forms of adoration paid to this divinity. The *tulasi* or basil is sacred to Vishnu.