Trees and Resources in Pathirruppathu

பதிற்றுப்பத்தில் மரங்களும் வளங்களும்

Abstract

Among the world's living beings, trees are those that appeared in ancient times. They are symbols of prosperity. The ancient Tamils believed that all the forces of nature resided in green trees. Trees are what give life to humans. Apart from providing the oxygen necessary for life, trees help in receiving rain that provides the essential water and in giving the food needed by humans. "In the natural environment, any material that serves the welfare of people can be referred to as a resource. All living and non-living things that fulfill human needs are called resources."¹ In Pathirruppathu, trees have been protected and cultivated to serve as forest guides, as guardian trees, for establishing village assemblies (manram), and for travelers to eat fruits and relieve their journey's fatigue