WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SASHTANGA NAMASKARAM ?????

 Sashtang Namaskar is made of two words-

1.Sashtang

2.Namaskar.

First,let us understand,what is Sashtang-

sashtang = Sa + Asht + Ang

Sa = Sahit or Yukt or with

Asht= Eight or 8

Ang = Parts of the body

It means namaskar with eight specific parts of the body is known as Sashtang Namaskar.

For all I say-

A Sanatani expresses reverence to God or great elders with a ritual called Pranamam. Other gestures include touching eight specifice body parts to the floor which is called Shastang Namaskar.

These eight parts of the body are- two toes, two knees, two palms, chest and the forehead.

The idea behind this type of obeisance is that the person doing it says, the body which touches the earth, will resolve itself into that earth ultimately, and the soul� in me will continue to be � alone.That idea must be known to oneself by enquiry. Without knowing it, there is no use in doing these.

A sashtanga namaskar is one of the many types of namaskar, where is which all the body parts or angas touch the ground. This type of namaskara is also commonly known as the “dandakara namaskaram” and “uddanda namaskara”. According to the theory, the word “danda” means “stick”. Therefore, the dandakara namaskaram is where the person doing the namaskara lies on the ground just like a fallen stick.

Sahstanga Namaskaar

This pose is done because a fallen stick resembles the thought of ‘helplessness’, which it is a way of sending a message to the Lord that you are as helpless as the fallen stick and in turn have take his refuge. This sashtanga namaskar is also a symbol of sharanagati in the Lord’s feet. Sashtanga namaskar is also related to a process where one’s ego is removed and in turn he develops a form of humility.When the head is brought down by others, it is a disgrace. If we bring it down ourselves, it is reward and an honour.

The Sashatanga is where one lies down flat on the stomach with eight limbs touching the ground. The eight limbs are chest, head, hands, feet, knees, body, mind, and speech. This namaskaram is generally done by men.

Men and Women

Do women do the Sashtanga Namaskaram?

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According to the scriptures, the reason why women should not do the Sashtanga Namaskaram is because the womb and the breasts of women should not touch the ground.

Women do only the Panchanga Namaskaram and not the Sashtanga Namaskaram. The panchanga namaskaram is done when the woman kneels down with palms joined together or touching the feet of the revered one in front.

The breast is a part of the woman’s body which creates within itself the nourishment for the foetus and the womb holds the life of the foetus. Therefore, it should not come in contact with the ground.

आमतौर पर आज के समय में पैरों को हल्का सा स्पर्श कर आर्शीवाद लेते है। जो कि एक फॉरमेल्टी करते है। कई बार हम मंदिर जाकर बी खुकर माता के सामने माथा टेक लेते है। आपने कभी ये देखा है कि कई लोग मूर्ति के सामने लेट कर माथा टेकते है। जी हां इसी को साष्टांग दंडवत प्रणाम कहा जाता है।

शास्त्रों के अनुसार माना जाता है कि इस प्रणामें व्यक्ति का हर एक अंग जमीन को स्पर्श करता है। जो कि माना जाता है कि व्यक्ति अपना अहंकार छोड़ चुका है। इस आसन के जरिए आप ईश्वर को यह बताते हैं कि आप उसे मदद के लिए पुकार रहे हैं। यह आसन आपको ईश्वर की शरण में ले जाता है। लेकिन आपने यह कभी ध्यान दिया है कि महिलाएं इस प्रणाम को क्यों नहीं करती है। इस बारें में शास्त्र में बताया गया है। जानिए क्या?

शास्त्रों के अनुसार स्त्री का गर्भ और उसके वक्ष कभी जमीन से स्पर्श नहीं होने चाहिए। ऐसा इसलिए क्योंकि उसका गर्भ एक जीवन को सहेजकर रखता है और वक्ष उस जीवन को पोषण देते हैं। इसलिए यह प्रणाम को स्त्रियां नहीं कर सकती है। जो करती भी है उन्हें यह प्रणाम नहीं करना चाहिए।

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What are the significance of Tulsi Vivah and its importance in Hinduism?

 

Sacred : Tulsi (holy basil) is considered among the most sacred symbols in Hinduism.

She is generally addressed as Tulsi Devi or Tulsi ji.

Purity : Tulsi ji represents inner and outer purity.

Eternal : According to Hinduism ; Tulsi ji is considered as an ever living entity.

Devotion : Tulsi ji happens to be epitome of the utmost devotion.

Beloved : Tulsi ji is beloved of Lord Sri Hari ; who only accepts prayers; food ; water; clothes ; gifts with Tulsi leaves.

Blessing : According to scriptures ; Tulsi ji had only prayed for Lord Vishnu all her life.

But, she was also known as very devoted wife. Being a celibate; she did not let anyone touch her.

Well, Jalandhar , her husband was the bitter foe of Lord Sri Hari.

Tulsi was known for her sanctity. Her virtues acted as a divine armor for her husband.

Lord Vishnu clandestinely touched her in disguise of her husband that led to death of her husband.

Before turning into holy basil ; she cursed Lord Vishnu to turn into Shaligram, a sacred stone.

Marriage : Lord Vishnu assured her that he would marry her as he had touched her.

Rituals : Tulsi Vivah means wedding of Tulsi ji with Lord Sri Hari Narayan.

Many couples perform Kanya Daan as parents of Goddess Tulsi ji.

Many also act as parents of Lord Shaligram ji (Sri Hari) in Tulsi Vivah.

Tulsi Vivah signifies start of wedding season and other auspicious activities.

Fact : Tulsi ji is used for various spiritual ; astrological and medicinal purposes.

Prayer : Sri Ganeshaya Namah Jai Sri Tulsi Shaligram ji Jai Sri Sita Ram Narayan Namo Parvatipataye Har Har Mahadev Shiv Shambo !

Pic Credits : Google Images / Web

What is the significance of the loan taken by Lord Venkateswara?

 Before delving deep into this aspect, let’s know the background for the loan taken by Lord Venkateswara when he incarnated as Srinivasa to enter into wedlock with Padmavathy, the Princess whom he came across while wandering in the forests for hunting.

Maharshi Bhrigu and Trimurthi: During Dwapara Yug, a Maha Yagya (Divine sacrifice) was organised on the banks of the River Saraswathi. and many great Sages participated. At that point of time, the Sages could not decide who amonst the Trimurthis viz., Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Maheswara could be made the Pradhanta (Chief) of that Yagna. Sage Narada, who was also present there, intervened and suggested that Sage Bhrigu could be deputed to test as to who was more deserving.

Primus: Subjecting the Creator to test: First, he entered Brahmaloka and pretending to be angry with his Father, he bawled at him for showing disrespect by not getting out of his seat and receiving him. He was expressing his scorn and disdain towards Brahma who got enraged at the unpalatable conduct of Maharshi and wanted to teach him a lesson but was intervened by Saraswathi, his Consort. The Sage then let out a curse that in Kaliyuga, no one will worship Lord Brahma and left Satya Loka.

{Note:-Brighu was, in fact, the Manasaputra of Lord Brahma.] {Rajo Guna]

Secondus: He then leaves for Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva when he was stopped by Nandi at the gate who informs him that both Shiva and his consort, Parvathi are in privacy and no one is allowed to enter. Getting angry at this, the Sage cursed that Shiva will lose his form in worship by the people and be formless I.e., Lingam. {Tamas Guna].

Tertius: Lastly, he reached Vaikuntam, the Abode of Lord vishnu when he was pretending to be asleep and in a fit of rage, Brighu kicked him up on his chest where Lakshmi was seated. On waking up, Vishnu, seeing the enraged Sage, apologises to the Maharshi in return and catches hold of his foot for massaging. So as to relieve him of the pain. This benevolent act of Lord immensely pleases Maharshi who decides that Vishnu is endowed with Satva Guna and He is fit to be the Master for the Yagna.

Lakshmi’s anger and separation from Lord Vishnu: Goddess of Wealth became furious at the impolite behaviour of Brighu Maharshi and she let out a curse that henceforth, Brahmins would live in penury. On hearing this, the Sage explained in detail about the whole episode but Lakshmi whittled down the curse to the effect that those Brahmins who surrender to the Lotus Feet of Lord Vishnu would be exempt from its impact. However, Lakshmi could not tolerate this behaviour and she left Vaikunth and descended down to the Earth.

There was a King named Akasa Raja who was childless. He and his wife, Dharani Devi decided to perform Putrakameshti Yaga for progency. As was the custom of ploughing the land, there emerged a beautiful child on the Big Lotus Flower. He embraced the child and named her as “Padmavathy” having been found on the lotus flower.

{Note:-Here the similarity of the birth of Sita from the Yagna ground spotted by King Janaka should be noted.]

Why Lord Vishnu incarnated as Lord Srinivasa? Yashoda, the fondling Mother of Lord Krishna was unable to witness the marriage of her son and she lamented about this. Lord Krishna pacified her that she would herself arrange for his wedding when he incarnates as Lord Srinivasa. Therefore, Yashoda was reborn as Vakul;a Devi, the mother of Lord Srinivasa now.

Srinivasa Meets Padmavathi: In due course of time, Padmavathi grew up into a beautiful girl and was attended by a host of maids. One day, while the Princess was enjoying the beauty of the garden of flowers with her maids, Sage Narada appeared and predicted that she is destined to marry Lord Vishnu himself. Around this time, Srinivasa went into the forests near the hills, chasing a wild elephant, and eventually came across the embellished beauty of Padmavathi. However, the guards of the Garden mistook him for a hunter and drove him away.

Love knows no bounds: On the first sight of Srinivasa, Padmavathi also was afflicted with the arrows of Kama Deva. Now, Srinivasa came to know that Padmavathi is the foster daughter of Akasa Raja.

Srinivasa was not in his usual mood and was reluctant to take his meals. On repeated enquiries, Vakula Devi came to know of the entire sequence of events and she decided to enter the Palace for meeting Akasa Raja for the purpose. She approached the Royal Palace in the garb of a sooth sayer and when Padmavathi came out to see what is going on outside, she was called by the Sooth Sayer (Kurathi in Tamil). She examined the palm of the princess and predicted that she would marry the same person whom she had met in the Nandavana.

But, seeing the outwardly appearance of both Vakula Devi and Srinivasa, Akasa Raja agreed on the condition that the entire wedding expenditure shall be defrayed by Srinivasa which will be a grandeur function. Initially, the King thought that Srinivasa was penniless and to test their capability, he insisted on this condition and also pay the dowry in exchange.

Now comes the crux of taking loan: Kuber, the Yaksha and the Custodian of Wealth is the son of Visravas Rishi and Illavida. {also the cousin brother of demon King Ravana). He is also Dik Pala (Regent of the North). Being the Treasurer of Wealth, he is worshipped along with Lakshmi Devi during Dhanteras, the opening day of Deepavali.

If one chants daily the Kubera Mantra, it is believed that He will shower riches and free from debt-ridden problems.

KUBER MANTRA

ॐ ह्रीं ह्रीं ह्रीं, महालक्ष्मी, धनदा लक्ष्मी

कुबेराम मम ग्रहेस्थिरो ह्रीं ॐ नम:।

Loan from Kuber for meeting wedding expenses: Lord Srinivasa now approached Kubera for loan who agreed to give subject to the condition that the Lord shall not return to Vaikunta until and unless the loan along with interest is fully paid off. Lord agreed that he will not return to his abode unless and until the loan is fully paid off with interest which is expected to be fulfilled by the end of Kali yuga. The loan amount was to the tune of one crore fourteen lakhs of gold {11.04 million) Ramamudra coins. According to another version, Kuber gave Lord mountains of gold, as promised. An agreement was executed for the loan repayment in which both Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma signed as witnesses.

Marriage of Padmavathi with Lord Srinivasa: The wedding was a gargantuan event for which Vishwakarma, the celestial architect, was entrusted with the task of construction of heavenly surroundings in Seshadri Hills. The event was magnificent when all the celestial Gods descended on Earth for witnessing this epoch-making ceremony. Every one was received with hospitality and accorded respects as befitting them. Srinivasa was bathed with holy waters from Pushkarini and dressed with beautifully embelllished attires and jewels. He was taken in procession to the palace of Akasa Raja where he was received with honours and both the King and the Queen along with Preceptor, Vashisht, washed his Lotus Feet with holy waters.

It is believed that the dowry given to the King, as promised, was of whopping quantum.

After the wedding was over, it was now parting time for Padmavathi and both the King and the Queen, albeit foster parents, were lachrymal. Both Srinivasa and Padmavathi reached Venkatachala Hills and lived there happily.

Conclusion: Lord Venkateswara, it is believed, is supposedly to wipe off his debt to Kuber by the end of Kali Yuga through the offerings so as to help Lord Srinivasa to wipe off his debt to Kuber. In return, the Lord blesses his devotees with wealth and make them free from the attachment to riches. Let’s chant the following Mantra and lead a pleasant life:

> This is the most amazing Sloka that we would find written on the first sign board we come across on the Tirumala Hills, the moment we enter there.

Venataadri samam sthaanam brahmande naasti kinchana,

Venkatesha samo Devo na bhuti na bhavishyati

And Here’s The Meaning

“...There indeed is no God like Venkateswara in this Universe and none else can equal the sanctity or showering of happiness and prosperity in the future”

> This is the most awesome Sloka written by Sage Veda Vyasa and first mentioned by him in one of his sacred Ashta Dasa Puranas – the Bhavishyattottara Purana…

Do buffaloes have any significance in Hinduism?

 In general, in Hindu traditions buffaloes, especially female buffaloes, symbolize fertility (especially agricultural fertility and prosperity), fortune, the potential for gain, the harvest, and transformations. Buffaloes in general represent tamoguna, delusion, ignorance, lust, brute power, strength, divinity, support, ferocity, and kingship or queenship - a mix of positive and negative associations, but certainly regarded as powerful.

Rigveda 9.96.6 praises the Deva Soma Pavamana as “buffalo among wild beasts, falcon among birds of prey”.

The Kalika Purana says that a buffalo is an auspicious animal with an excellent form which gives life, wealth, and fame.

Yama, the God of Death, rides a black male water buffalo.

Chandika Devi famously slew Mahishasura, a great buffalo demon. This continues to hold great significance in modern Hindu traditions and is celebrated annually in a major festival.

Also the deity Ayyappa defeated Mahishi, a female buffalo demon.

There is a buffalo deity, Mhasoba Maharaj, venerated in some regional Hindu traditions especially in Maharashtra.

In the ancient Hindu alchemical traditions of Rasayana Shastra, buffalo bile and the urine of a female buffalo are used in specific formulae.

Some Hindu traditions practice the ceremonial slaying of male water buffaloes, mainly in offering to forms of Shakti during the Durga Puja/Navaratri/Dashain festival. This is practiced mainly in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Nepal. Rajputs used to practice this as well, and a few still do.

Do bees have any significance in Hinduism?

 Bees are mentioned quite frequently in Hindu literature, usually just as part of descriptions of various natural environments, or in various poetic/metaphorical references. In general, Hindus have historically liked bees and regarded them very positively. To mention that a natural area is full of bees is seen as a point of high praise. Bees and their buzzing and general behaviors are seen as charming and delightful, and the company of bees is considered pleasant and desirable. They represent the beauty, richness, and industriousness of nature, and are considered to contribute to a lively and harmonious atmosphere. They are also frequently used as symbols of love and the spring season. The humming of bees in the spring season is considered a romantic sound inciting love and romantic yearning. Indra’s paradise of Svargaloka is described as containing bees.

The Rishis of the Rigveda even compare themselves to bees, for example:

“Here are thy invokers together, waiting with offerings for thee, like bees sitting together on honey.” - Rigveda 7.32.2

Elsewhere bees are compared to Vedic mantras. It is also recommended to approach sources of knowledge (different texts, teachings, etc.) like a bee approaching flowers: drawing the sweet nectar from each one and moving on, to create rich and nourishing honey. In this way bees are cited as a Guru in nature, in the Uddhava Gita.

Kamadeva’s bowstring is made of bees. As a former beekeeper myself, I can confirm that bees really do frequently do form strands like this, holding onto each other’s feet:

There is also a form of Shakti called Brahmari, the Goddess of Bees. Her story is given in the Devi Bhagavata Purana, book 10, chapter 13. Her center of veneration is the Srisailam Shakti Pitha in Andhra Pradesh, one of the main 18 Shakti Pithas.

The Shastras mention that honeybees are spiritually high among insects, since their honey benefits so many other beings, earning them great good Karma. Here is some Madhubani Hindu folk art from Mithila, showing a honeybee drinking nectar:

What is the significance of Goddess Lakshmi being worshipped first in Hindu families in India?

 In Hinduism, Goddess Lakshmi is considered the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Therefore, her worship is important. It is believed that wealth and splendor are attained only by the grace of Goddess Lakshmi.

Some special things related to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi:

• Lakshmi-Ganesh is worshipped on Diwali.
• In many houses, Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped every week.
• Friday is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi.
• It is believed that the person who has the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi does not face financial problems.
• It is believed that pleasing Goddess Lakshmi frees one from financial troubles.
• It is believed that worshipping sugarcane during Lakshmi Puja brings prosperity.
• It is believed that for Lakshmi Puja, one should stay away from inertia and remain engaged in Sadhna, Seva, and Satsang.

The Significance of Lord Vishnu’s Fasts: A Detailed Analysis

 

Introduction

Fasting, or Vrat, is a fundamental aspect of Hindu spiritual practice. Among the many fasts observed in Hinduism, those dedicated to Lord Vishnu hold special importance. Lord Vishnu, the Preserver and Protector of the universe in the Hindu Trinity (Trimurti), is worshipped through various fasts that help devotees attain spiritual growth, material prosperity, and liberation (moksha).

This analysis will cover:

• The concept of fasting in Hinduism
• Types of Vishnu fasts and their significance
• The spiritual and scientific benefits of fasting
• Mythological stories associated with Vishnu fasts
• The deeper symbolism behind observing these fasts

By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of why fasting for Lord Vishnu is a powerful and transformative practice in Hindu dharma.

1. The Concept of Fasting (Vrat) in Hinduism

1.1 What is a Vrat (Fast)?

The word "Vrat" (व्रत) in Sanskrit means a vow, observance, or discipline undertaken for spiritual upliftment. In Hinduism, fasting is:

• A means of self-purification (both body and mind).
• An act of devotion to seek blessings from deities.
• A practice of discipline to control desires and ego.

1.2 Why Fast for Lord Vishnu?

Lord Vishnu is the Supreme Preserver of cosmic balance. His fasts are observed to:

• Attain material and spiritual well-being.
• Remove sins and karmic burdens.
• Gain divine protection from hardships.
• Attain moksha (liberation).

Among the numerous fasts in Hinduism, those dedicated to Lord Vishnu hold a special place due to their power to grant prosperity, protection, and salvation.

2. Types of Vishnu Fasts and Their Significance

2.1 Ekadashi Vrat (The Most Important Vishnu Fast)

• Observed twice a month, on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the lunar cycle.
• Considered the most sacred and spiritually rewarding fast dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
• Significance: Helps in cleansing the mind and body. Frees the soul from past sins (papa). Leads to spiritual progress and ultimately moksha.

Types of Ekadashi Fasts

There are 24 Ekadashi fasts in a year, each with unique benefits. Some of the most important ones include:

1. Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Grants direct entry into Vishnu’s abode, Vaikuntha.
2. Nirjala Ekadashi – The toughest fast; observed without food or water for maximum spiritual merit.
3. Mohini Ekadashi – Helps overcome delusions and attachments.
4. Devshayani Ekadashi – Marks the four-month sleep of Vishnu (Chaturmas).
5. Prabodhini Ekadashi – Celebrates Vishnu’s awakening after Chaturmas.

2.2 Vaikunta Chaturdashi Vrat

• Observed on the 14th day of the waxing moon in Kartik month.
• It is believed that Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva visit Kashi together on this day.
• Significance: Brings prosperity, longevity, and success. Strengthens the connection between Vishnu and Shiva devotees.

2.3 Satyanarayana Vrat

• One of the most popular household fasts, observed on Purnima (full moon day).
• Involves worship of Lord Vishnu in the form of Satyanarayana.
• Significance: Brings family harmony and prosperity. Removes hardships and obstacles. Grants fulfillment of wishes.

2.4 Chaturmas Vrat (Four-Month Fasting Period)

• Observed during Vishnu’s cosmic sleep (Chaturmas) from Ashadha to Kartika month.
• Devotees follow strict dietary restrictions and increased prayers.
• Significance: Purifies the soul during Vishnu’s meditative state. Helps in spiritual refinement and self-control.

2.5 Vishnu Panchak Vrat

• Observed in Kartik month (last five days before Kartika Purnima).
• Dedicated to the five divine aspects of Vishnu.
• Significance: Helps in gaining Lord Vishnu’s grace. Recommended for those seeking moksha and liberation from karma.

3. Spiritual and Scientific Benefits of Vishnu Fasts

3.1 Spiritual Benefits

• Enhances devotion and focus on Lord Vishnu.
• Dissolves negative karma and past sins.
• Brings inner peace and divine blessings.
• Improves willpower and mental discipline.

3.2 Scientific Benefits of Fasting

Modern science has discovered that fasting provides numerous health benefits:

• Detoxifies the body by giving the digestive system a break.
• Boosts metabolism and aids in weight loss.
• Improves brain function by increasing focus and clarity.
• Balances blood sugar levels and reduces inflammation.

4. Mythological Stories Associated with Vishnu Fasts

4.1 The Story of Ekadashi Devi

According to the Padma Purana, once a demon named Mur troubled the gods. Lord Vishnu, in a divine battle, created a goddess from his own energy on the 11th lunar day (Ekadashi). She destroyed the demon, and Vishnu blessed her, saying "Whoever fasts on Ekadashi will be freed from all sins and attain moksha."

4.2 The Satyanarayana Katha

The Satyanarayana Vrat Katha tells the story of how a poor Brahmin and a merchant gained divine blessings by worshipping Vishnu in the Satyanarayana form. However, those who ignored the fast faced hardships and misfortune.

The story emphasizes that faith and devotion in Vishnu lead to success, while arrogance and disbelief bring difficulties.

5. The Deeper Symbolism of Vishnu Fasting

5.1 The Role of Fasting in Vishnu Worship

• Vishnu represents balance (sattva guna), and fasting brings balance in life.
• Fasting detaches devotees from material cravings, helping them focus on higher consciousness.

5.2 The Connection to Dharma (Righteousness)

• Lord Vishnu is the Preserver of Dharma, and fasting is an act of self-discipline that aligns devotees with righteous living.
• Observing fasts means following a disciplined and ethical lifestyle, just as Vishnu protects cosmic order.

6. Conclusion: Why Vishnu Fasts Are Spiritually Powerful

Fasting for Lord Vishnu is not just about avoiding food—it is a path to self-discipline, devotion, and spiritual awakening. These fasts:

1. Cleanse the body and mind, preparing devotees for deeper spiritual experiences.
2. Bring divine blessings for health, prosperity, and success.
3. Help remove past karma, allowing the soul to move closer to moksha.
4. Deepen the connection with Lord Vishnu, reinforcing faith and surrender.

By following Vishnu’s fasts with devotion and sincerity, one can experience divine grace, peace, and liberation from worldly sufferings.