GSB Coimbatore Blog

Shattilla Ekadashi

Shattila Ekadashi is one of the most important Ekadashis. According to the Hindu calendar, it is observed every year during the month of Magha or Paush, i.e. in January. The fast of Shattila Ekadasi in 2015 will be observed on January 16.

Some other names with which Shattila Ekadasi is famous among the people are: Shat-Tila Ekadashi, Stilla Ekadashi, Sattila Ekadashi, and Tilda Ekadashi. Lord Vishnu is worshiped on all the Ekadashis, but on Shattila Ekadashi, Lord Krishna is also worshiped. 

The name of Shattila Ekadasi indicates about the food item that holds the maximum importance on this day i.e. Til. Consumption of Til or sesame seeds, charity of sesame seeds or even bathing with water having some sesame seeds in it, is considered highly auspicious. You will come to know about the significance of sesame seeds or Til and the story of Shattila Ekadashi by reading ahead. So, read on and know more about Shattila Ekadasi, before observing Shattila Ekadasi Vrat in 2015.

Legend Of Shattila Ekadashi :

As per the legend of Shattila Ekadasi, once there was an old lady, who had lots of wealth and money. She used to perform a lot of charity for the poor, in form of offerings like clothes, jewelry, and other precious items. But she never offered them food or grains.

Once, Lord Krishna converted himself in the form of a poor beggar and asked that rich lady for food. On the continuous demand for food, the lady became angry and she put a ball of clay in his pot. Beggar blessed her and left.

When she entered into her house, she saw that every food item is slowly changing into clay. She was having lots of wealth and money, but all was a complete waste because she was not able to eat anything. She was getting weaker and weaker, day by day. Then, she prayed to Lord Krishna for help.

Lord Krishna came into her dreams and reminded her the incident of the beggar. He also told her that by observing the fast of Shattila Ekadasi and offering food to the poor on that day, will help her in removing all her sins.

She observed the fast of Shattila Ekadashi and offered Til and food to the poor, after which everything returned to normal.

Shattila Ekadashi 2015: Gain auspiciousness from sesame seeds :

Follow these rituals on the day of Shattila Ekadasi in 2015 by using the Til or sesame seeds for acquiring the maximum auspiciousness.

• Mix some sesame seeds in the water for bathing.
• Make the paste of sesame seeds for rubbing on your body.
• Include the consumption of sesame seeds in your food.
• On the day of Shattila Ekadashi, give the sacrifice of sesame seeds in fire,.
• Offer sesame seeds to the poor in charity.
• Exchange gifts of sesame seeds.

Via: Facebook, Indian Life Ethics & Karmas


[NOTE: The article "[WHAT IS] Shattilla Ekadashi" appeared on the GSB Coimbatore Blog.

[DISCLAIMER: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The blog does not own any trademarks and trademarks are of their respective owners.]

[WHAT IS] Sri Satyanarayana Ashtotharam Shatanaamaavali

Shri Sathyanaranayana katha is from Skandha purana, Reva kaanda. Sutha Puraanikji was the narrator of these stories, in Neimishaaranya to the rishis lead by Shounakji who were performing a 1,000 year yajna for the benefit of mankind.

Satya Narayan is the Narayan form of Lord Vishnu. The Lord in this form is considered an embodiment of truth. Satyanarayana is worshipped commonly by Hindus in their homes with family and friends, usually on a full moon (purnima) day of the month. In this puja called Satyanarayana Pooja, people worship by reciting the gracious story of Lord Satyanarayana. This story was originally told by Lord Vishnu himself to the sage Narada for the benefit of humankind.

Om Satyadevaya Namaha
Om Satyatmane Namaha
Om Satyabhuutaya Namaha
Om Satyapurushhaya Namaha
Om Satyanathaya Namaha
Om Satyasaxine Namaha
Om Satyayogaya Namaha
Om Satyagyanaya Namaha
Om Satyagyanapriyaya Namaha
Om Satyanidhaye Namaha
Om Satyasambhavaya Namaha
Om Satyaprabhuve Namaha
Om Satyeshvaraya Namaha
Om Satyakarmane Namaha
Om Satyapavitraya Namaha
Om Satyama.Ngalaya Namaha
Om Satyagarbhaya Namaha
Om Satyaprajapataye Namaha
Om Satyavikramaya Namaha
Om Satyasiddhaya Namaha
Om Satyachyutaya Namaha
Om Satyaviiraya Namaha
Om Satyabodhaya Namaha
Om Satyadharmaya Namaha
Om Satyagrajaya Namaha
Om Satyasa.Ntushhtaya Namaha
Om Satyavarahaya Namaha
Om Satyaparayanaya Namaha
Om Satyapuurnaya Namaha
Om Satyaushhadhaya Namaha
Om Satyashashvataya Namaha
Om Satyapravardhanaya Namaha
Om Satyavibhave Namaha
Om Satyajyeshhthaya Namaha
Om Satyashreshhthaya Namaha
Om Satyavikramine Namaha
Om Satyadhanvine Namaha
Om Satyamedhaya Namaha
Om Satyadhiishaya Namaha
Om Satyakratave Namaha
Om Satyakalaya Namaha
Om Satyavatsalaya Namaha
Om Satyavasave Namaha
Om Satyameghaya Namaha
Om Satyarudraya Namaha
Om Satyabrahmane Namaha
Om SatyamrItaya Namaha
Om SatyavedanGaya Namaha
Om Satyachaturatmane Namaha
Om Satyabhoktre Namaha
Om Satyashuchaye Namaha
Om Satyarjitaya Namaha
Om Satye.Ndraya Namaha
Om Satyasa.Ngaraya Namaha
Om Satyasvargaya Namaha
Om Satyaniyamaya Namaha
Om Satyamedhaya Namaha
Om Satyavedyaya Namaha
Om Satyapiiyuushhaya Namaha
Om Satyamayaya Namaha
Om Satyamohaya Namaha
Om Satyasurana.Ndaya Namaha
Om Satyasagaraya Namaha
Om Satyatapase Namaha
Om Satyasi.Nhaya Namaha
Om SatyamrIgaya Namaha
Om Satyalokapalakaya Namaha
Om Satyasthitaya Namaha
Om Satyadikpalakaya Namaha
Om Satyadhanurdharaya Namaha
Om Satyambujaya Namaha
Om Satyavakyaya Namaha
Om Satyagurave Namaha
Om Satyanyayaya Namaha
Om Satyasaxine Namaha
Om Satyasa.NvrItaya Namaha
Om Satyasampradaya Namaha
Om Satyavahnaye Namaha
Om Satyavayuve Namaha
Om Satyashikharaya Namaha
Om Satyana.Ndaya Namaha
Om Satyadhirajaya Namaha
Om Satyashriipadaya Namaha
Om Satyaguhyaya Namaha
Om Satyodaraya Namaha
Om SatyahrIdayaya Namaha
Om Satyakamalaya Namaha
Om Satyanalaya Namaha
Om Satyahastaya Namaha
Om Satyabahave Namaha
Om Satyamukhaya Namaha
Om Satyajihvaya Namaha
Om Satyadau.Nshhtraya Namaha
Om Satyanashikaya Namaha
Om Satyashrotraya Namaha
Om Satyachakase Namaha
Om Satyashirase Namaha
Om Satyamukutaya Namaha
Om Satyambaraya Namaha
Om Satyabharanaya Namaha
Om Satyayudhaya Namaha
Om Satyashrivallabhaya Namaha
Om Satyaguptaya Namaha
Om Satyapushkaraya Namaha
Om Satyadhridaya Namaha
Om Satyabhamavatarakaya Namaha
Om SatyagrIharupine Namaha
Om Satyapraharanayudhaya Namaha



Via: Facebook, Indian Life Ethics & Karmas


[NOTE: The article "[WHAT IS] Vaikuntha Ekadashi]" appeared on the GSB Coimbatore Blog.

[DISCLAIMER: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The blog does not own any trademarks and trademarks are of their respective owners.]

[WHAT IS] Vaikuntha Ekadashi

Vaikuntha Ekadashi (Kannada: ವೈಕುಂಠ ಏಕಾದಶಿ; (Tamil: வைகுண்ட ஏகாதசி; Telugu: వైకుంఠ ఏకాదశి; Sanskrit: वैकुंठ एकादशि) (Sometimes called Mukkoti Ekadashi in Telugu) is the Shukla paksha Ekadashi that occurs during the Dhanurmasa period in the Hindu calendar (corresponding to late December - January in English calendar).
Vaishnavism (Worship of Vishnu) culture believes that ‘Vaikuntha Dwaram’ or ‘the gate to Lord's Inner Sanctum’ is opened on this day. The Margashirsha shukla paksha ekadashi in lunar calendar is known as a 'Mokshada Ekadashi'. Special prayers, yagnas, discourses and speeches are arranged at Vishnu temples across the world on this auspicious day.

According the to Vishnu Purana, fasting on Vaikuntha Ekadashi is equivalent to fasting on the remaining 23 Ekadashis of the (Hindu) year. However according to Vaishnava tradition fasting is mandatory on all Ekadashi of both Shukla paksha and Krishna paksha. Fasting on Ekadashi is considered holier than any other religious observation.

Vishnu opened the gate of Vaikuntham (his abode) for two demons in spite of their being against him. They also asked for the boon that whoever listens to their story and sees the image of Vishnu coming out of the door (called Dwar), called Vaikunth Dwar, will reach Vaikunth as well. Temples all over India make a door kind of structure on this day for devotees to walk through.

According to Padma Purana, the female energy of Vishnu slayed the demon Muran and protects the 'Devas'. This happened on the eleventh day of lunar month during the sun's journey in the Dhanurrashi or Dhanu Rashi. Impressed by the act, Vishnu names her as 'Ekadashi' and gives her the boon that those who worship 'Ekadashi' on the day of her victory over Muran would reach 'Vaikunth' (His abode).

Benefits - Vaikuntha Ekadashi is also known as Mukkoti Ekadashi. It is believed that Vaikuntha Dwaram or the gate of Lord's inner sanctum is opened on this day and devotees who observe fast on Vaikuntha Ekadashi attain salvation by going to Heaven.

Vaikuntha Ekadashi is very important day for Tirumala Venkateswara Temple at Tirupati and Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam. Other famous temples like Guruvayoor SriKrishna temple in Kerala, Rajagopalaswami temple, Mannargudi, etc have the special dwars for the devotees.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi is known as Swarga Vathil Ekadashi in Malayalam Calendar followed by people of Kerala.

Parana means breaking the fast. Ekadashi Parana is done after sunrise on next day of Ekadashi fast. It is necessary to do Parana within Dwadashi Tithi unless Dwadashi is over before sunrise. Not doing Parana within Dwadashi is similar to an offence.

At times Ekadashi fasting is suggested on two consecutive days. It is advised that Smartha with family should observe fasting on first day only. The alternate Ekadashi fasting, which is the second one, is suggested for Sanyasis, widows and for those who want Moksha. When alternate Ekadashi fasting is suggested for Smartha it coincides with Vaishnava Ekadashi fasting day.

Ekadashi fasting on both days is suggested for staunch devotees who seek for love and affection of Lord Vishnu.


Via: Facebook, Indian Life Ethics & Karmas's


[NOTE: The article "[WHAT IS] Vaikuntha Ekadashi]" appeared on the GSB Coimbatore Blog.

[DISCLAIMER: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The blog does not own any trademarks and trademarks are of their respective owners.]

[WHAT IS] Why do people pierce their body with hooks and lance during Thaipusam?

People piercing their body with hooks, skewers and (vel) small lances during Thaipusam at Murugan Temples is a common sight. In the beginning people only used to pierce their tongue with a small vel - this was a means to meditate by keeping silent. The vel was used to create a forceful means for Mauna Vratam - remaining silent. In the beginning it was a simple innocent offering done by Muruga Devotees.

But today in some instances, Lord Muruga devotees pull heavy chariots with hooks attached to their bodies - this is a very recent trend.

Such practices are not mentioned in Hindu Holy Scriptures. In Holy books, body is quite often mentioned as the temple in which Brahman resides. ‘Vel’ was presented to Lord Muruga by Mother Parvati to vanquish the demons and not to pierce his body. Even the stories associated with taking Kavadi has nothing to with body piercing.

But piercing cheeks and tongue with ‘vel’ is a common practice by devotees of Lord Muruga. In Malaysia, it goes a step forward and some devotees pull heavy objects up the Batu Caves using hooks attached to the body.

Most people perform such piercing to fulfill their wishes. They believe that Muruga will be easily pleased, if the degree of such antics are increased.

Ignorance of the basic tenants of Hinduism is the reason behind such practices. People get nothing but mental satisfaction and bodily pain from such piercing.

But these practices have been taking place for thousands of years and several symbolisms have been attached to these practices.

Piercing of the tongue is done to stop the speech and thereby to concentrate fully on the Lord.

Another symbolism states that it is to show that the physical body is a ‘maya’ and ultimate aim is to merge with the Brahman. There are several other symbolisms.

Most devotees enter into a trance during the piercing mainly due to the excessive drumming and chanting. They claim that they experience no pain during piercing and even after the ritual.

Adi Shankaracharya speaks about rituals like this:

Rituals are like blankets that veil the truth. They are nets to trap our intellect, forcing us to confine our consciousness to the superficial values of the manifest world. The thinking of a person who believes exclusively in ritual practices becomes confined to this little world. Subtle thoughts of the mind and tender feelings of heart become outward oriented. Such a person begins to believe that everything can be accomplished with the help of rituals.


Via: Facebook, Hindu Temples Information


[NOTE: The article "[WHAT IS] Why do people pierce their body with hooks and lance during Thaipusam?" appeared on the GSB Coimbatore Blog.

[DISCLAIMER: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The blog does not own any trademarks and trademarks are of their respective owners.]

[WHAT IS] Lakshmi Puja [HOW-TO]

Lakshmi puja is a Hindu ritual performed on Diwali Amavasya, is the third day of Dipavali (Diwali), the Hindu festival of lights. According to tradition people would put small oil lamps outside their houses on Diwali and pray to Goddess Lakshmi to bless their family and businesses.

Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped by those who wish to acquire or to preserve wealth. It is believed that the goddess ( of wealth) visits only those houses which are clean and where the people are honest and hard-working.

In the Sri Vaishnava philosophy however, Sri (Lakshmi) is honoured as the "Iswarigm sarva bhootanam," i.e., the Supreme goddess and not just the goddess of wealth. This is an important distinction between Sri Vaishnavism and other materialistic philosophies.

The day of Lakshmi-Puja falls on the dark night of Amavasya. The strains of joyous sounds of bells and drums float from the temples as man is invoking Goddess Lakshmi in a wondrous holy "pouring-in" of his heart. All of a sudden that impenetrable darkness is pierced by innumerable rays of light for just a moment and the next moment a blaze of light descends down to earth from heaven as golden-footed Deep-Lakshmi alights on earth in all her celestial glory amidst chantings of Vedic hymns.


Pooja Vidhi - Steps of Lakshmi Puja

Begin Puja by laying down a piece of new cloth on a raised platform. Spread out a handful of grains in the center of the cloth and place a kalasha made of gold, silver, copper, or terracotta. Fill three-fourths of the kalasha with water and place inside it a betel nut, a flower, a coin, and some rice grains. Arrange five kinds of leaves from different trees, or if a variety is not available then leaves from a Mango tree, in the kalasha. Place a small dish on the kalash and fill it with rice grains. Draw a lotus with turmeric powder ( haldi ) over the rice grains and place the idol of Goddess Lakshmi on top of the kalasha, spreading coins around it.

Place the idol of Lord Ganesha in front of the kalasha, on the right hand side pointing to the South-West direction. Also place ink and account books related to your business on the platform. Light a lamp and begin the puja by offering haldi, kumkum, and flowers to the platform on which the kalash is placed. Then offer haldi, kumkum, and flowers to the water that is to be used for the puja. Invoke [Saraswati | the river goddess Saraswati] to be part of this water.

Invoke the Goddess Lakshmi by reciting the Vedic mantras addressed to her. One can also recite the mantras mentioned in the Puranas or simply take some flowers in your hands, close your eyes, and think of the Goddess Lakshmi as being showered with gold coins by two elephants standing on either side of Her and chant Her name. Then offer the flowers to the idol.
Place the idol of Goddess Lakshmi in a plate and bathe it with water, [Panchamrita | panchamrit] (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee or clarified butter, honey, and sugar) and then with water containing some gold ornament or a pearl. Wipe the idol clean and place it back on the kalasha. Alternately, you can just sprinkle water and panchamrit on the idol with a flower.


Offerings

Offer sandal paste, saffron paste, perfume ( ittar ), haldi, kumkum, abeer, and gulal to the Goddess. Offer a garland of cotton beads to the Goddess. Offer flowers, especially the marigold flowers and leaves of Bael (wood apple tree). Light an incense stick and dhoop. Make an offering of sweets, coconut, fruits, and tambul. Make an offering of puffed rice and batasha (varieties of Indian sweets). Pour some puffed rice, batasha, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds over the idol. Draw religious markings on the safe in which you keep your valuables and worship this safe as a symbol of Lord Kubera.


Aarti

Finally, perform the aarti for Goddess Lakshmi. Always remember that She abhors loud noise. So the aarti should be accompanied only by a small bell. Do not clap hands, as is the practice when performing aarti for other gods. A peaceful and sublime atmosphere should prevail during the Diwali day pujan. Do not light crackers while the puja is on or immediately after it.


Via: Facebook, Indian Life Ethics & Karmas's


[NOTE: The article "[WHAT IS] Lakshmi Puja [HOW-TO]" first appeared on the GSB Coimbatore Blog.

[DISCLAIMER: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The blog does not own any trademarks and trademarks are of their respective owners.]

An Appeal to all Samaj Bandhavas

Dear Samaj Bandhavas,

Sri Venkatesha Seva Samithi Charitable Trust has been conducting monthly Sathyanarayana Pooja at our Ishtadevatha Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, at Marudhamalai, Coimbatore on every 1st Sunday of the English month in the morning for the past 9 years.

God has given us manushya janma and that too as Brahman only on credit of our poorva punyas acquired by us in our earlier krimi, keeda, pakshi, mrugadi janmas. The only way to escape from this cycle of births is to surrender at the lotus feet of Sri LORD NARAYANA.

Let us join our hands to serve Srimannarayana with utmost bhakthy and put all our efforts for the realization of the Soul, which is the ultimate aim of the human birth rather than acquiring wealth.

Those who want to sponsor the pooja may contact the management at the below-mentioned numbers. Those who are unable to sponsor for the time being may join us for Sankalpa Sathyanarayana Pooja by paying only Rs. 51/-.

MANA EVA MANUSHYANAM KARANAM BANDHA MOKSHAYO

Please realize that money is not the criteria, but the mind is the criteria.

So, we request all Samaj Bandhavas to participate with family with full devotion and make it a grand great success and get the blessings of Sri Lakshmi Narasimha and Sri Sathyanarayana, which will enlighten you internally and in your day-to-day life as well.


Sri. P. Achutha Pai, President
+91-98422-98399 / +91-98431-98399

Sri. Rajeshkumar Shenoy, Secretary
+91-98432-61200

Sri. Venugopala Prabhu, Joint Secretary
+91-98948-84091

Sri. RH Udaykumar Pai, Treasurer
+91-99444-32420


With warm and best regards,

Coimbatore Sree Lakshmi Narasimha Devasthanam, SVSS Trust

[WHY?] Why is the Ganesha idol immersed in water after the Ganesh Chaturthi festival?

Vinayaka Chaturthi or Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations end with the immersion or Visarjan of clay Ganapati idol in water.

Hindus worship Brahman or the Supreme Soul present in all animate and inanimate, but for a majority of the people it is not possible to worship this formlessness. They need a form to pray to, to seek help, to cry, and to take blessings. Ganesha is ‘OM’ the primordial sound or the first ‘Vaak.’ Nirguna Para Brahman takes the form of Ganesha.

Clay and water is mixed to give form to the formlessness. Each person brings Ganesha in clay idol form into the home. This is the Supreme Being arriving at home. After the celebrations, it is time to accept the eternal cosmic law that which took form has to become formless again. It is a never ending cycle (Chakra).

The formlessness giving way to form and then moving again towards formlessness. Each year, Ganesha arrives to teach us that:

Forms change, but the Supreme Truth remains the same. Body perishes, but the Brahman residing in it remains constant. This body becomes energy for another, but the source of energy is the same. Bliss is achieved when we realize this.

The act also symbolizes the concept of Moksha, or liberation, in Hinduism. Osho says – ‘Absolute unclinging. That is what is meant by Moksha – freedom – no clinging, not even to gods.’

Thus we create Ganesha out of clay, worship it and later it is submerged (Visarjan).

Important TIP: Use only clay Ganesh idols and please do not throw plastic in water. Perform a symbolic immersion in a bucket of water and then use it to water the plants.

Please Share and make others aware of it!


Via: Valuable Information, Facebook




[NOTE: The article "[WHY?] Why is the Ganesha idol immersed in water after the Ganesh Chaturthi festival?" first appeared on the GSB Coimbatore Blog.

[DISCLAIMER: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The blog does not own any trademarks and trademarks are of their respective owners.]

Importance of Prasad

Prasad

The word ‘prasad’ means that which gives peace. During any form of worship, ritual or ceremony, Hindus offer some items of food to the Lord. Puja is done with Bael leaves, flowers, Tulasi (Basil plant), Vibhuti and these are given as Prasada from the Lord.

Prasada is that which gives peace. Prasada is the sacred food offering of the Lord. During Kirtans (Singing hymns), worship, Puja, Havan and Arati, the devotee offers sweet rice, fruits, jaggery, milk, coconut, plantain and such other articles to the Lord, according to his ability. After offering them to the Lord, they are shared between the members of the house or the Bhaktas (devotees) in a temple.

Water, flowers, rice, etc., are offered to the Lord in worship. This denotes that the Lord is pleased with even the smallest offering. What is wanted is the heart of the devotee. The Lord says in the Gita

Patram Pushpam Phalam Toyam Yo Me Bhaktya Prayacchati;
Tadaham Bhaktyupahritamasanami Prayatatmanah

Whoever offers a leaf, a flower, a fruit or even water with devotion, that I accept, offered as it is with a loving heart".

It is not necessary that one should offer gold, silver, and costly dress to the Lord. The devotee offers these according to his ability and position in life, thereby denoting that the whole wealth of the world belongs to the Lord. A rich man offers costly things to the Lord. He feeds the poor and serves the sick, seeing the Lord in his fellow-beings.

The mental Bhava (attitude) of the devotee offering Bhog to the Lord has very great effect. If an ardent devotee of the Lord offers anything to the Lord, that Prasada, if taken, would bring very great change even in the minds of atheists. The Grace of the Lord descends through Prasada.

If the food is offered with an yearning heart, sometimes, the Lord takes that food assuming a physical form. In other cases, the Lord enjoys the subtle essence of the food offered, and the food remains as it is in the shape of Prasada. While feeding Mahatmas and the poor people, that which is left behind is taken as Prasada. When a sacrifice is performed, the participants share the Prasada which bestows the blessings of the gods. When Dasaratha performed Putrakameshti (a sacrifice performed wishing for a son), he got a vessel full of sweetened rice that he gave to his queens, by taking which they became pregnant.

Charanamrit

A special form of prasad is the Charanamrit, which is the water or milk used to wash the feet of the idol, or of a holy saint. The Charanamrit has tremendous powers. It can change the outlook of a devotee entirely. It has the power to cure diseases. There are cases where it brought back life to the dead. Charanamrit is a tonic or medicine for misery, pain and anxiety. Intense faith is the all-important necessity for taking it. Without faith it brings very little benefit. The benefits of Prasada and Charanamrita are beyond description. They have the power to change entirely the outlook of a man’s life. Prasada destroys all pains and sins. It is an antidote for misery, pain and anxiety. Faith is the important factor in testing the accuracy of this statement. For faithless persons, it brings very little effect.

Those who are brought up in modern education and culture have forgotten all about the glory of Prasada. Many Western educated persons do not attach any importance to Prasada when they get it from Mahatmas. This is a serious mistake. Prasada is a great purifier. Live for a week in Vrindavana or Ayodhya or Varanasi or Pandharpur. You will realise the glory and the miraculous effects of Prasada. Many incurable diseases are cured. Many sincere aspirants get wonderful spiritual experiences from mere Prasada alone. Prasada is a panacea. Prasada is a spiritual elixir. Prasada is the Grace of the Lord. Prasada is a cure-all and an ideal pick-me-up. Prasada is an embodiment of Sakti. Prasada is Divinity in manifestation. Prasada energises, vivifies, invigorates and infuses devotion. It should be taken with great faith.

The prasad of the Lord is very sacred and purifying. If it is taken with faith and devotion, it brings miraculous results to the devotee.

While feeding Mahatmas, Sannyasins and the poor, that which is left over is also taken as prasad, because in feeding them, we feel that we are feeding God Himself.

When a ceremony is performed all the devotees should share the prasad and thus receive the blessings of the Deities. Prasad is extremely sacred. There is no restriction of any kind in taking prasad. Time, place or condition does not affect one. Prasad is all purifying.. Prasada is the most sacred object for a devotee. One should consider himself lucky to take the Prasada, and there is no restriction of any kind in taking Prasada. Prasada is all purifying.


Via: Srikant Rawas


[NOTE: The article "Importance of Prasad" first appeared on the GSB Coimbatore Blog.

[DISCLAIMER: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The blog does not own any trademarks and trademarks are of their respective owners.]

[HOW-TO] How to Observe Ekadashi

Signifance of Ekadasi Fasting:
Ekadasi or Ekadashi is a Sanskrit word derived from the words, Eka which means one and dasi, the womanly form of the word dasa (which means ten). Ekadashi, also known as Agyaars, falls on the eleventh day after the full moon and again eleventh day after the new moon of every month. Thus, Ekadasi occurs twice in a month one of the 11th day of shukla paksha and another one on the 11th day of krishna paksha (dark). Hence, there are twenty four Ekadasis in a year. In Hindu religion, Ekadashi day is meant for fasting and people observe a complete fast on this day, to please Lord Maha Vishnu. Observing Ekadasi Vrat enhances spiritual development.

How to observe Ekadashi Fasting:
As stated by the Vedic scripts, Ekadashi fast begins on the day before the Ekadasi, on the Dashami (the tenth phase of the Moon), continues on the day of Ekadasi and ends on the Dvadasi, the day after Ekadasi (the twelfth phase of the Moon). However, complete fast is observed only on the day of Ekadasi, irrespective of gender. One should avoid consuming grains, beans, cereals, certain vegetables and spices on the day. If this is not possible, one can consume a single non-grain meal once in the afternoon or in the evening. Alcohol and non-vegetarian food should be avoided.

One should

1. Not shave the body, face or head
2. Spread oils on one's body
3. Do not lie; or participate in tough exercise or labor.

The person should engage himself/herself in chanting, hearing and reading and discussing the stories/history of the Lord and involve in other spiritual services. The pious services carried out on this day are more effective.

Legend behind Ekadasi Fasting:
Legend says that once Lord Vishnu was fighting with a demon named Mura. As the Lord felt tired, he decided to rest from the long battle. The demon planned to kill the Lord while he was sleeping. Unexpectedly, a young girl manifested from the body of the Lord and killed the demon. The gratified Lord gave her the name Ekadasi, as she emerged on the eleventh day of the declining moon. Ekadasi was granted a boon that if anyone who fasts on Ekadashi will be set free from sinful activities and reach His abode.



[NOTE: The article "[HOW-TO] How to Observe Ekadashi" first appeared on the GSB Coimbatore Blog.

[DISCLAIMER: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The blog does not own any trademarks and trademarks are of their respective owners. ]

JANMASHTAMI or SRI KRISHNA JAYANTHI or ASHTAMI ROHINI

Krishna Janmashtami ( कृष्ण जन्माष्टमी kṛṣṇa janmāṣṭami), also known as Krishnashtami, Saatam Aatham, Gokulashtami, Ashtami Rohini, Srikrishna Jayanti, Sree Jayanti or sometimes merely as Janmashtami, is an annual commemoration of the birth of the Hindu deity Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu.

The festival is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the month of Bhadrapada (August–September; However, in both traditions it is the same day. So, we have works like Vishnudharmottara Purana saying Krishna Ashtami is in the Bhadrapada month and Skanda Purana stating that it falls in the month of Shravana) in the Hindu calendar. Rasa lila, dramatic enactments of the life of Krishna, are a special feature in regions of Mathura and Vrindavan, and regions following Vaishnavism in Manipur. While the Rasa lila re-creates the flirtatious aspects of Krishna's youthful days, the Dahi Handi celebrate God's playful and mischievous side, where teams of young men form human towers to reach a high-hanging pot of butter and break it. This tradition, also known as uriadi, is a major event in Tamil Nadu on Gokulashtami.

Fasting Rules on Krishna Janmashtami

No grains should be consumed during Janmashtami fasting until the fast is broken on next day after Sunrise. All rules followed during Ekadashi fasting should be followed during Janmashtami fasting also.

Parana which means breaking the fast should be done at an appropriate time. For Krishna Janmashtami fasting, Parana is done on next day after Sunrise when Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra are over. If Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra don't get over before Sunset then fast can be broken during day time when either Ashtami Tithi or Rohini Nakshatra is over. When neither Ashtami Tithi nor Rohini Nakshatra is over before Sunset or even Hindu Midnight (also known as Nishita Time) one should wait to get them over before breaking the fast.

Depending on end timing of Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshatra fasting on Krishna Janmashtami might continue for two complete days. Devotees who are not able to follow two days fasting might break the fast on next day after Sunrise. It has been suggested by Hindu religious text Dharmasindhu.

[RITUALS] Homam

A Homam is a ritual performed with fire. It is also called “Havan”or “Yajna”. Our body is considered to be made up of five elements – Earth, Fire, Water, Sky and Wind. Of these, “Fire” is considered as the symbol of energy which brings forth creation and life. Hence, worship of “Fire” or “Agni” has been practiced by our ancestors since the Vedic ages. It is believed that Gods come into the fire and receive the prayers and offerings that are poured into the sacred fire.

GANAPATHY HOMAM / GANPATHY HAVAN:

Om Gan ganapathiye namah.....om avighnamasthu

All of us are endowed with a Gross body i.e the one that can be seen and felt as well as a subtle body which functions within. The body has many fires burning within. There is the “Jathara Agni or the digestive fire which helps to digest all the food that is ingested. There is also the “Bhuta Agni” which is the inner transformative power – it can be thought of as a fire that helps to digest all the mental/emotional learning that we take in. The subtle body is sustained by the Bhuta Agni which then helps to attain spiritual awakening.

Over time, the “Bhuta Agni” is weakened due to clogs caused by feelings such as desire, anger, greed, ego, lust and jealousy. This needs to be cleaned by spiritual thought, one-pointed devotion, positive emotions such as love, compassion and generosity. It is considered that the “Homam” or ritual with the external fire helps to strengthen/rekindle and energize this “Bhuta Agni” towards the spiritual goals.

Lord Ganesha is always worshiped before starting any Pooja or Homa and on all auspicious occasions. Lord Ganesha is also known as ‘Vigneshwara’ [vigna + Eswara] which means the lord who removes all obstructions (Vighna). Lord Ganesha or Mahaganapathi is believed to remove obstacles not only in the material world but also in one’s spiritual progress. Mahaganapathi is also worshiped as a very important deity for Kundalini awakening and Kundalini rise, which is the first step in self-realization. The Mahaganapathi homam is performed by people desiring progress in various material pursuits as well as those seeking liberation and spiritual awakening.

Ganapathy Homam should be performed in the early morning and Poornahuthi to be offered during sunrise.

To perform Ganapathy Homam the following materials are required:

1. Ghee
2. Modhaka (a kind of sweet prepared with coconut, jaggery and rice flour or wheat flour)
3. Durva (a kind of grass).

The Ahuti / offering into the fire is called Ashta Dravya which is a mixture of the following eight materials

1. Coconut
2. Banana
3. Honey
4. Sugarcane
5. Ghee
6. Modhaka
7. Jaggery
8. Puffed rice.

While it is good to follow the procedure faithfully, what is even more important to offer ones “Ego” to be melted into the sacred fire. Complete devotion and single-minded focus on deity/mantra/procedure and burning one’s ego leads to full satisfaction and peace on performing the Homam.


Via: Facebook, Indian Life Ethics & Karmas's Photos




[NOTE: The article "[RITUALS] Homam" first appeared on the "GSB Coimbatore Blog."

[DISCLAIMER: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. These terms and conditions of use are subject to change at anytime and without notice. The blog does not own any trademarks and trademarks are of their respective owners. ]

[RITUALS] Griha Pravesh - Vidhi Vidhaan

Hindu House Warming Ceremony

Griha Pravesh is a ceremony performed on the occasion of one's first entry into a new house. Once the house is ready, the family moves in on an auspicious day that is determined by the astrological charts. Purity of panchang (almanac) and auspicious time (muhurat) must be considered during the griha pravesh. Three types of griha pravesh have been mentioned in our ancient scriptures:

Apoorva: First entry to newly constructed house on a newly selected land is called apoorva (new) griha pravesh.

Sapoorva: Entry into an already existing house after travelling abroad or migration elsewhere is called sapoorva griha pravesh.

Dwandwah: Entry into a house to after reconstruction or renovation subsequent to damage due to fire, flood or earthquake, is termed as dwandwah (old) griha pravesh.

For apoorva griha pravesh, the exact auspicious time need to be adhered to. For sapoorva griha pravesh or dwandwah griha pravesh, the purity of the panchang should be given due consideration.

Auspicious Times or Muhurats:

In a newly built house, the first entry is auspicious when the sun is in the uttarayan position; in old, renovated houses, when Guru (Jupiter) or Shukra (Venus) is setting (the tara or star does not matter in this case). Auspicious months for griha pravesh, that are based on the lunar calendar, and their outcome have been provided below:

AUSPICIOUS TIME:
Magh (part January and part February) Gain of wealth
Falgun (part February and part March) Gain of children and wealth
Baishak (part April and part May) Growth of wealth and prosperity
Jeshtha (part May and part June) Gain of son and cattle

FAIR TIME:
Kartik (part October and part November)

NO SIGNIFICANT EFFECT:
Margshirsh (part November and part December

INAUSPICIOUS:
Ashadh (part June, part July) Could lead to losses, pains, troubles, & fear of enemies.
Bhadrapad (part August and part September)
Ashwin (part September and part October)
Paush (part December and part January)

Furthermore, the tithies (dates according to lunar calender) 4, 9, 14 and Amavas (no moon night) should be avoided. Griha pravesh should not be held on a Tuesday.

Important Ceremonies:

Vastu Pooja:
Vastu pooja for vastu devata is performed outside the house before the actual entry into the house. A copper pot is filled with water, navadhanya (nine kinds of grains) and one rupee coin. A coconut is then placed on the top of the pot. Coconut is covered with the red cloth and tied with the red thread called moli. After this the priest performs the pooja, add the husband and wife take this copper pot in the house together and place it near the havan (ceremonial fire).

Vastu Shanti:
Vastu shanti or Griha shanti, involves the havan. A havan is performed to prevent harmful influences of the planets, remove negative vibrations and create a peaceful environment. Once all the poojas are concluded, a feast is offered to the priest. He is also given some dakshina or fees for his services and good wishes.

These two poojas are essential. Other poojas like the Ganpathi pooja, the Satyanarayan pooja ot the Lakshmi pooja are optional, and can be performed if priest recommends them.

Do's and Don'ts of Griha pravesh:

Griha Pravesh is not complete until:
•The doors of the house are fitted with shutters;
•The roof is covered;
•The Gods of vastu have been worshipped or offered sacrifices;
•The priests have been offered feast.

House-warming ceremony should not be performed when the lady of the house is pregnant.

If the above-mentioned points are not considered when moving into a new house, they can bring trouble and miseries to the dwellers. Therefore, living in a house should be considered only after all rituals are complete as per the procedure given in the scriptures.

Once the Griha Pravesh ceremony has been completed, the family can then move into the house. The house should not be locked for a few days since that would be considered inauspicious.

The Ten Scriptural Samskaras

The rites that pertain to the stages of life of man are called Samskaras. The Samskaras are purificatory rites which sanctify the life of the Hindu. They give a spiritual touch to the important events in the life of the individual from conception to cremation. They mark the important stages of a man’s life. Just as the outline of a picture is lighted up slowly with the filling in of many colours, so also is Brahmanya with scriptural Samskaras. There are the Samskaras of childhood, of boyhood, of manhood and of old age and death.

There are fiftytwo Samskaras. Among these, ten are important. The ten principal and generally recognised Samskaras are: Garbhadana, Pumsavana, Simantonnayana, Jatakarma, Namakarana, Annaprasana, Chudakarma, Upanayana, Samavartana and Vivaha. Of these ten, only some are now performed. Some of the Samskaras pertain to infantile life and early childhood. Some are ceremonies which may be performed daily or on special occasions. The whole life of the Hindu is thus consecrated and protected from the cradle to the grave.

Garbhadana

The Garbhadana sanctifies the creative act. The husband prays fervently from the core of his heart that a child may be conceived. He repeats sacred Mantras during Ritu-Santi ceremony or nuptials. The new child is conceived amidst the vibration of Mantras. Good impressions are impressed in the brain-cells of the embryo. For a real Hindu who is endowed with pure intellect and right understanding, the sexual union is not for the sake of mere enjoyment. He utilises the divine, creative, vital energy for the formation of a human body. Husband and wife should be cheerful and pious when they have intercourse. When their minds are perturbed or agitated, or when there is anger or hatred, they should avoid copulation. They should study holy scriptures. If they have the image of Arjuna, they will have a chivalrous and wise son. If they have the image of Lord Buddha, they will bring forth a son with mercy and other good virtues. If they have the image Of Dhanvantari, they will get a son who will turn out to be a reputed Ayurvedic doctor. If they think of Surya or Sun-God, they will bring forth a lustrous son with splendour and effulgence.

Pumsavana

In the third month, the Pumsavana is performed with Mantras. The food-sheath and the vital-sheath of the child are formed.

Simantonnayana

The Simantonnayana is performed at the seventh month with recitation of Veda Mantras. This protects the mother from evil influences and bestows health on the child. The above three Samskaras protect the mother and the child. The body of the child develops nicely. The harmonious vibrations set up by the recitation of Mantras and the performance of the ceremonies help in shaping the body of the child beautifully.

Jatakarma

The next Samskara, the ceremony performed immediately after the birth of the child, is the Jatakarma. The father welcomes his new-born child. He prays for its long life, intelligence and well-being, and feeds it with honey and butter.

Namakarana

Then comes Namakarana or the naming ceremony. The new-born child is given a name on the tenth, eleventh or twelfth day with recitation of Mantras.

Annaprasana

The Annaprasana comes in the sixth month when the child is given solid food for the first time. Mantras are recited and oblations are offered to the various deities.

Chudakarma

The Chudakarma, the tonsure or shaving of the head, is performed in the first or third year. The Karnavedha or ear-boring ceremony is performed in the fifth or the seventh year or at the end of the first year with the Chudakarma. The body of the child is protected and harmonised by these ceremonies. Any hereditary defect that arises from defect of semen and embryo is removed. Vidyarambha also is another Samskara. Alphabet is taught to the child. This is also known by the name Aksharabhyasa. These Samskaras pertain to the child stage of life.

Upanayana

The most important ceremony which marks the beginning of the next stage of life—the stage of youth—is Upanayana. Upanayana is a very important Samskara. It is a landmark in the life of the child. It is his second or spiritual birth. The word Upanayana means bringing near.

The boy is brought near his Guru, spiritual teacher. The preceptor invests him with the sacred thread, Yajnopavita, and initiates him by giving him the Gayatri Mantra, and gives him a staff. This is the beginning of Brahmacharya Asrama, during which Brahmacharya—perfect or entire celibacy—is enjoined. He is to begin the life of study. The initiation makes him a Dvija, twice-born. The father and the mother gave birth to him from mutual desire. This is his physical birth. Initiation into Gayatri Mantra is his another, true birth. According to Yajnavalkya, the Upanayana ceremony is performed at the eighth year for a Brahmana, eleventh for a Kshatriya and twelfth for a Vaisya. Manu gives the age at the fifth year for a Brahmana, the sixth for a Kshatriya and the eighth for a Vaisya.

Significance of the Sacred Thread and Other Symbols

The sacred thread or Yajnopavita consists of three threads knotted together. He who wears the thread should have a triple control, over his mind, speech and body—thought, word and deed. The holy thread signifies the various triads which exist in the world, viz., Sat, Chit and Ananda; creation, preservation and destruction; the three states of waking, dreaming and deep sleep; the three qualities of Sattva, Rajas and Tamas; the Trimurtis Brahma, Vishnu and Siva; etc.

The staff signifies that the student should have control over his thoughts, words and actions. He who practises control over his thoughts, words and actions, and he who practises Brahmacharya in thought, word and deed, attains perfection.

The boy wears a Kaupina, a small yellow cloth and a girdle of Munja grass. The Acharya puts on him a deerskin. The new yellow cloth represents the new body. Yellow colour is a symbol of spirituality. Wearing of Kaupina indicates that the boy should lead a pure life of perfect celibacy. The girdle is wound round thrice. This indicates that the boy has to study the Samhitas, the Brahmanas and the Upanishads. The deer-skin represents the ascetic life he should lead.

Samavartana

Then comes the end of the student stage, the Samavartana. The student, having completed the Vedic studies and the Vratas, presents his preceptor with a gift and obtains permission to take the formal bath which marks the close of his student-career. He returns home and performs the Samavartana, the returning ceremony. He is now ready to marry and enter the second stage or Grihastha Asrama, the life of a householder.

Vivaha

Vivaha is marriage or entry into the second Asrama. The life of the householder begins. Now he takes up his duties as man and pays his spiritual debts by sacrifice, by study and by procreating children. The bridegroom tells the bride: “I take your hand for good fortune.” They walk round the sacred fire hand-in-hand. The bride sacrifices grains in the fire and prays: “May my husband live long. May my relations increase.”

The Last Two Stages Of Life

There are two more stages, viz., Vanaprastha and Sannyasa, with their rites.

Man withdraws himself from all worldly activities, retires into the forest and prepares himself for taking Sannyasa. This is the life of a Vanaprastha.

A Sannyasin renounces the world and leads a life of study and meditation by living on alms.

Pretakarma is funeral rite. When a man dies, the funeral ceremonies are performed by his son and heir.



Via: http://www.dlshq.org/download/hinduismbk.htm

Hindu Rituals - Sandhyopasana / Sandhyavandanam

Sandhyopasana literally means ‘worship at the junctions of time.’ It is a prayer and worship offered to the Lord at the junction (Sandhi) of night and morning, forenoon and afternoon and at the junction of evening and night. The Arghyapradana to the sun and the meditation on and recitation of Gayatri, form the heart of the worship. Properly understood, the whole Sandhya is an earnest prayer addressed to the Lord to forgive all one’s sins committed during one’s routine, daily activities and to bestow illumination and grace.

Sandhyopasana must be performed at the proper Sandhyas. Then only the performer can derive much merit. There is a special manifestation of force at Sandhyas. This force disappears when the Sandhya is past.

An Obligatory Duty

Sandhyopasana is the daily religious practice of the Hindus whose investiture with the holy thread has been performed. Sandhya is a Nitya Karma or an action that is to be done daily. Sandhya is an obligatory duty to be performed daily for self-purification and self-improvement.

Sandhya should be performed by all followers of the Sanatana Dharma. Every Brahmachari and every householder must perform it every day. If he fails to perform it, there is Pratyavaya Dosha or the sin of omission. He loses his Brahma-Tejas.

According to the Hindu Sastras, a Brahmana, a Kshatriya and a Vaisya will get hell, if they do not perform three times Sandhyopasana (Traikalika Sandhya) daily. It is for the purpose of Sandhya only, the law of Yajnopavita-Samskara is laid down in the Yajnavalkya Smriti which says: “The Brahmana in his eighth year, the Kshatriya in his eleventh year and the Vaisya in his twelfth year are fit to be given Yajnopavita.” Because, only after this particular Samskara, they are supposed to be worthy to worship Sandhya and take to Vedic rites. They should keep themselves pure internally and externally. They can nicely understand the sacred glory of this divine science.

Benefits Of Sandhyopasana

Sandhya is a combination of Japa, Upasana, Svadhyaya, meditation, concentration, Asana, Pranayama, etc. He who does Sandhya daily has Brahma-Tejas or spiritual lustre, in his face. A man who performs his daily Sandhya, according to the prescribed rules, at the appointed time as laid down in the scriptures, attains purity and success in his every effort. He becomes powerful as well as calm. Regular Sandhya cuts the chain of old Samskaras and changes everybody’s old situation entirely. It brings purity, Atma-Bhava, devotion and sincerity.

The Ceremony

The important features of this ceremony are: (i) Achamana or sipping of water with recitation of Mantras (viz., Achyutaya Namah, Anantaya Namah, Govindaya Namah, etc.), Marjana or sprinkling of water on the body which purifies the mind and the body, Aghamarshana or expiation for the sins of many births, and Surya Arghya or oblations of water to the Sun-god, (ii) Pranayama or control of breath which steadies the wandering mind, and silent recitation of Gayatri, (iii) Upasthana or religious obeisance.

Arghya

The first part up to Arghya consists of hymns addressed to water and its benefits. The sprinkling of water on the face and the head and the touching of the different organs (the mouth, nose, eyes, ears, chest, shoulders, head, etc.) with wetted fingers, are meant to purify those parts of the body and invoke the respective presiding deities on them. They also stimulate the nerve-centres and wake up the dormant powers of the body.

The Arghya drives the demons who obstruct the path of the rising sun. Esoterically, lust, anger and greed are the demons who obstruct the intellect from rising up. The intellect is the sun.

Pranayama and Japa

The second part of Sandhya consists of Pranayama and Japa of Gayatri.

Suryopasthana

The third part of Sandhya is the Suryopasthana. It is a prayer for forgiveness, mercy and grace. The prayer is: “Let me not go down to the earthly house. Have mercy, O Lord! My strength was very weak, O Lord! I did wrong actions. Have mercy, O Lord!” These are Vedic hymns addressed to the sun in the morning, noon and evening. The sun is the intellect in man. Ignorance is the night. Knowledge is the light. When you rise up from the darkness of ignorance, when the eye of intuition is opened through the grace of Gayatri, the Blessed Mother of the Vedas, you attain eternal bliss, supreme peace and immortality. It is that divine light which dispels delusion and the darkness of ignorance. It is that adorable splendour with which the world is glowing. It is that holy lustre which graciously fills the heart of a devotee with eternal bliss. It is this supreme Light which the aspirant craves from God through the Gayatri Mantra. He begs of God this Knowledge for his Realisation.

Sandhyopasana - An Exact Science

Man naturally wants to realise the Truth. He wants to know the secret of Creation. In this connection, scriptures emphatically declare: “Only at the moment when all doubts are cleared, ignorance is destroyed, hypocrisy and cruelty are rent asunder, and when a man sees Him in the abode of his heart, the real and ultimate Truth is revealed.”

Sandhya-Vijnana or the Science of Sandhya is an exact science to attain success in the realm of Truth. One need not have any kind of superstition to learn this divine science. One need not prove its greatness. Its greatness, its glory, is open truth. Even the materialistic society of today agrees with the truth of Sandhya-Vijnana. In the scriptures, it is laid: “Brahmanhood is the tree, Sandhya is its root, Vedas are its branches, religious acts are its leaves; therefore take care of its root, i.e., Sandhya.” Now the glory of Sandhya is very clear. Sandhya is absolutely necessary for a man who is treading the path of Truth. Aharahah Sandhyamupasita, i.e., a Brahmin should perform regularly his daily Sandhya at any cost—is the injunction of the scriptures.

Prerequisites For The Practice Of Sandhya

Diet

If you want to learn this science, you must be careful about your diet. Take regular and light Sattvic food. Man is much influenced by his diet. See the difference between a small lion and a big elephant. You will be able to improve yourself by adjusting your diet. Idleness is due to a variety of rich diet only. Therefore, be strict in your daily diet. You will be ever active and strong.

Sitting Pose

A man who performs Sandhya does not care about his sitting pose. He sits in any posture. This is not much beneficial. He should daily sit in a perfect posture, Padmasana or Sukhasana, facing the particular direction. As far as possible, he must finish his Sandhya in one sitting. He must have perfect mastery over Asana. Then he will have concentration in his Sandhya.

Faith and Devotion

You must do your Sandhya with faith and devotion. Mere repetition will not bring much good. Pray from the core of your heart to the Lord to forgive your sins.

A Word To The Younger Generation

Our young college students, who are under the influence of wrong Samskaras and wrong education and evil company, have forgotten all about the glory and high efficacy of Sandhya. They are not doing Sandhya. Sandhya has no meaning for them. They have become Godless men. They want laboratory tests and scientific proofs for the usefulness of Sandhya, before they begin to do Sandhya. It must be supported by the statements of western scientists. The words of ancient Rishis do not appeal to them. What a greatly degraded state!

O young students! Do not ruin yourself by neglecting Sandhya. Regular performance of Sandhya will give you success in life and material and spiritual prosperity, good health and long life, purity of heart, and help you to attain God-realisation. Do it from now at least. Yet there is hope for you. Wake up. Be sincere.

Now take strict resolve from this very moment to be regular in your daily Sandhya, even under many distractions and obstacles. Begin it from this very moment. Do not delay. Reduce your useless activities. Talk little. Do not mix much. You will get plenty of time for your Sandhya.

Be strict in your Sandhya. Let there be rain or wind. Even if the Pralaya comes, do not leave it half-done. Many people say that they have not got time to perform Sandhya. They have to attend several functions. This is due to their weakness and lack of good Samskaras. They do not know the glory of this divine science. If they see one of their friends sitting on the banks of the river and performing Sandhya, they will begin to shout or they will play some sort of mischief. But these poor creatures do not know what secret is hidden behind the Sandhya. The Secret of secrets is hidden in this sacred performance. This is why ancient Rishis say: “One who does not perform daily Sandhya is a real animal.”

May God give you the mind to perform daily Sandhya at any cost. May you follow the rules of Sandhya. May you realise the glory of Sandhya-Vijnana and be free from all tribulations and torments. May the divine science named Sandhya-Vijnana bestow purity, immense joy and immortality on you!




Via: http://www.dlshq.org/download/hinduismbk.htm