Vedic Index of Names and Subjects v2.c4.s2.146

v2.c4.s2.146

Bilva is the name of the wood-apple tree (Aigle marmelos). It is mentioned in the Brāhmaṇas¹ and in the Atharvaveda,² where a reference to its valuable fruit may be intended. According to the Taittirīya Saṃhitā,³ the sacrificial post was made of Bilva wood in some cases. The Śāṅkhāyana Āraṇyaka⁴ contains a hymn in praise of the virtues of an amulet of Bilva (irā-maṇi bailva).⁵