Why do we break coconuts?

[fatima]

Why do we break coconuts?

The humble coconut is considered the fruit of the Gods. The coconut grows on the tallest, sun kissed tree, and soaks in the goodness of the pouring sunshine. The coconut stands for prosperity and fertility, a symbol of usefulness, generosity, selflessness. Hindus believe that the coconut is the purest form of offering that one can offer to God.

When King Trishankhu was unable to enter Heaven, the sage Vishwamitra created the coconut tree to propel the King into the abode of the Gods. The fruit is unique in many respects.

Coconut Water

The tree draws the goodness of the earth and combines it with liquid sunshine
The sweet, nectar-like coconut water, is pure and untouched by the human hand.
It is drawn by the tree, fromits very base to its highest level.
There is no other single complete source of minerals other than coconut water, which helps maintain the electrolyte balance in the human body.
 Divine Coconut
The coarsely-knit outer fibers of the coconut represent the vices of man: jealousy,
lust, greed, craftiness and selfishness
To reach the symbolic white of inner purity, these vices need to be shattered and removed
Only then can one taste the sweet untouched nectar of spiritual purity and bliss.
Only the coconut has the three distinct eyes
These symbolize the three eyes of Shiva, and stand for the holy Trinity of Evolution - Creation, Preservation and Destruction
The eyes of the coconut also represent the three eyes of man - the two physical eyes plus the third or 'inner eye', which is the mind's eye or conscience.
It is the awakening of the “third eye” that can penetrate the false, outer  facade and reach the ultimate truth, empowering man to distinguish the right from the wrong.
The composition of the coconut is characteristic of the three elements of man:
 The hard, outer shell, with its coarse fibers, stands for the physical composition of the human body The inner white fruit represents man's psychological element and inner peace Untouched coconut water signifies the spiritual nectar within.
Along with prayers, the coconut is offered to God. When broken before the idol, the white flesh of the coconut becomes “prasad” and is eaten by the devotees as blessed food. It is believed that the coconut has received divine vibrations from God and will henceforth bless them with prosperity and good health.

No marriage is complete without the auspicious coconut. It is considered feminine and the symbol of fertility. The shell represents the womb and the milk is the human milk of nourishment. In the occult aspect, it is believed that the coconut provides protection from negative psychic forces.

Breaking coconuts is not just an act. It is  symbolic and full of meaning. So next time you break a coconut understand the underlying reasons, and you shall be blessed!