My
presentation is on the importance of the betel leaf. A sheaf of the betel is
associated almost with every important event and milestone of our lives. It is
used in welcoming, showing reverence, communicating good and bad news and
demonstrating social give and take. In the rural society even today a visitor
to the house is made welcome by offering betel leaves from the tray. Sharing
betel is a sign of companionship. The tray of betel leaves cuts across all
social distinctions. It gives one equality. In ancient times it was found in
every household-rich or poor.
It is also a sign of
affection. One may prepare a chew for a relation or a friend as a token of
companionship. The betel is offered by the young to the elders as a symbol of
respect. A person would offer it with the stem away from one ,s
self. Sometimes he may go down on his knees, once the sheaf is accepted. On the
Sinhala and Tamil New Year ,s day it is customary for the young to
offer a sheaf of betel to the elders and worship them.
The chief guest for a
cultural function would be invited with a sheaf of betel. At a funeral house
the betel is arranged upside down on the betel tray. A student on his first day
in school and after the new year would offer a sheaf of betel and worship his
or her teacher. Betel is significant in the performance of the Sinhala marriage
customs. Relatives are invited for weddings with the betel leaf, like an
invitation card. A family will get as many leaves as the numbers invited.
At ceremonies when money
is exchanged the money would be on a betel leaf or wrapped in it. This adds
dignity to the deed. This is because till recent times Sri Lankan society held
no respect for cash. In the past, Buddhist priests and Ayurvedic physicians
were never offered money.
