BRAAHMI MUHURTHUM

The religious life of many Hindus is focused on devotion to God or several Gods. This devotion usually takes the form of rituals associated with sculptures and images of Gods in home shrines. Hindus mostly perform all auspicious and important rituals during a good muhurtham (a unit of measurement of time). There are good muhurthams and bad muhurthams throughout the day and these also vary according to the day of the week.

There is one muhurtham which is a constant for all the days of the week and any task can be started on any day in that muhurtham. And that is called the “Braahmi Muhurtham.”This is a time that is 90 minutes before sunrise.

Braahmi in Sanskrit means Saraswati, the Goddess of knowledge and intellect. This is thus also a great time for acquiring knowledge and intelligence.

It is during Braahmi that Sun god spreads his rays just as a peacock spreading its feathers. He starts spreading his light and energy throughout the world. The light rays from the galaxies influence the human brain. The nascent sun spreads thousand arms in the form of rays across the sky, which emits light-blue divine rays. These rays bring to life the cells and the brain. Lord Surya or the sun god is also the god of life. If the man can synchronise his senses with these rays during this hour he will be empowered with unchallengeable energy. This observation was endorsed by sages. This is the time when the life under the sun still remains in deep sleep supported by the tranquil and pleasant environment, the sages and munis spread the power of penance, which comes out in the form of high powered electrical and magnetic charge, for the upliftment of the living creatures on the earth. If one keep awake during these hours, it is possible to benefit from this charge.

The logic and reasoning behind the value of this time is that the Sun starts spreading its sunlight and energy during this time. The rays of this light affect the human brain positively. These rays are light-blue. The cells in the brain get activated. The rest of nature is pleasant and peaceful during this time. The mind, as has been proved also by Western science, is a powerful tool to awaken and spread electrical and magnetic charges. These uplift the individual who performs meditation and penance during this time.

Western experts have agreed that the Sun provides important ingredients to earth such as electrical and magnetic charges which charge the earth and its inhabitants with vital energy. It also provides much needed food for plants. And these plants emanate oxygen which is vital for the sustenance of humankind. They have also agreed that rising early causes improved blood circulation. The lungs are pumped with healthy and fresh air (our ancient sages created the Yoga and pranayama thousands of years ago to benefit from this).

There are other advantages of walking up at Braahmi. Throughout the night the wind takes unimaginable amounts of Amrutham (elixir) from the rays of the moon and the stars. This wind provides a healthy cover in the atmosphere at dawn. The air during Braahmi Murutham is called Veeravayu. The Veeravaya helps the body maintains good health, increases the facial glow, inspires the mind and sharpens the intellect. At dawn, it is said; manes in the other world are at peace and gain strength. This strength spreads across the world.

Hence, the process of Braahmi Muhurtham not only stands for its religious values, it also holds the scientific reasons behind it which ultimately benefits us. And also helps us to connect with the God in a healthy and peaceful way.

Chanting Mantras in Hinduism

When we engage in the ritual process we are in essence, connected to “original time”. Rituals awaken that which is eternal within us and show us how our individual lives are part of a much grander design. And one such ritual is- Chanting the Mantras in Hinduism.

The chanting of mantras is an intrinsic aspect of ancient Hinduism. A mantra can be a single sound syllable, a word or a group of words, which, when repeated over, set off vibrations with positive effects on one’s physical and psychological functions. Mantra in Sanskrit combines two syllables, “man” (“mind”) and “tra” (“tool”); essentially, it is an instrument that attunes the mind to the vibrations of the cosmos.

Mantras can be written, chanted or silently repeated – whatever the method chosen, they bring tremendous benefits to the body and mind. It is to be believed that the chanting stimulated the subtle energy centers known as chakras lying along the spine.

Mantric chanting helps induce the “relaxation” response, causing reduction of heart beat, brain waves and respiration. The chanting of specific mantras caused the release of the hormone melatonin and is investigating the importance of this in the healing process.

There is now enough scientific evidence to prove that chanting mantras during meditation does reduce stress levels, even when the individual is unaware of the meaning of the mantra. 

Our learned sages have devised these mantras in their deep meditation. They started reciting these vibrant typical sounds that made the tongue hit the vital points of upper portion of the mouth in certain homogeneous combinations which stimulates brain in such a way as to bring the mind into meditative state or in ecstasy or what is called holy bliss. This repetitive recitation actually changes the chemical balance of the brain allowing a more relaxed peace of mind.

Chanting these mantras attunes one to corresponding vibrations in the cosmos. Importantly, mantras should be chanted with complete faith in order to realize their power in one’s life. Hence we can say that the principal aim of Chanting Mantras is to awaken the hidden divinities that exist in us and, through the assistance of such awakened divinities, to help us reach the Highest and the Supreme. 

Havan

Hinduism- the oldest living religion in the world- strongly believes in eradicating inner as well as outer imperfections by destroying undesirable elements and enriching positive energies in the environment.

To attain the goal of energizing and protecting the inner self and environment, Hinduism has given a significant place to Havan, which is said to be created by Lord Brahma for man’s livelihood & the attainment of his desires.

Havan, or sacred fire, is an indispensable part of Vedic rituals.  In a Havan, ingredients such as guggle, loban, sugar, giloye, and rice are offered to fire along with ghee and wood, amidst chanting of sacred Vedic mantras, which are set to a particular note, rhythm and sound vibration. It has been proved that the havans have scientific importance and helps in removing airborne diseases and viruses.

The fumes that rise out of the sacred fires of the havan kund are known to reduce bacteria, and to kill fungi and pathogens in the atmosphere that increase after the monsoon. These are known to cause eye infections and viral fevers. The fumes emanating from this sacred fire reduce the level of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) in the atmosphere. 

A havan has a purifying effect, offering environmental-friendly goods to fire and chanting of mantras re-energizes one’s chakras, producing a re-vitalized and invigorating effect for one’s the body as well as mind that leads to further success by swapping negative energies such as anger, rashness & irrational thinking with positive ones like calmness, tranquility and controlled attitudes.

Havan dispels negative and untoward energies by creating a protective shield around the place where the ceremony is performed. This kindles peace of mind, good health, which improves mental faculties and increases discriminating power, ensuring success in all goings-on.

It is not a simple ritual but an act of sacrifice and selfless contribution to the universe by the performers through this act. Thus, doing the sacred Havan in home can both reduce one’s negative karma and enhance one’s positive karma, which makes life more conducive to spiritual practice and which ultimately leads to the highest liberation.

Worshipping of Tulsi Plant

Rituals are most often associated with religious faiths or beliefs but in actually they exist throughout our daily lives under other names. Some are habits, some are routines or duties. All of them are patterns that we follow in the performance of daily tasks. Rituals remind us of what is important and provide a sense of stability and continuity in our lives. And one such ritual is to worship the Tulsi plant.

The Tulsi or holy Basil is an important symbol in the Hindu religious tradition. It has been an age old custom in India to worship it twice daily, water it and light lamps near it, once in the morning and once in the evening. It was, and still is, believed that it would protect the whole family from evils and bring good luck. Basil leaves have also been an inevitable part of all worships since ages.

 This holy basil is also an herbal remedy for a lot of common ailments. It has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda for its many healing properties.

Modern scientific research offers impressive evidence that Tulsi reduces stress, enhances stamina, relieves inflammation, lowers cholesterol, eliminates toxins, protects against radiation, prevents gastric ulcers, lowers fevers, improves digestion and provides a rich supply of antioxidants and other nutrients. Tulsi is especially effective in supporting the heart, blood vessels, liver and lungs and also regulates blood pressure and blood sugar.

Tulsi plant serves as a fabulous repellant in fighting against flies, mosquitoes and insects. It is especially valuable in combating malarial fever. Thus, holy basil (Tulsi) helped to abate the growth of mosquitoes and control malaria. 

There are numerous uses of Tulsi plant. The plant is increasingly finding its way in the Ayurvedic treatment of diseases. Tulsi leaves are widely used due to their healing power. It is a tonic for the nervous system and thus, helps a great deal in sharpening the memory. This aromatic plant supports the removal of phlegm and catarrhal matter from the bronchial tube. It also works wonders in preventing stomach disorders. The herb Tulsi is known to cure the respiratory disorders. The decoction prepared by mixing honey, ginger and Tulsi leaves is quite helpful in combating bronchitis, influenza and asthma. 

The unique chemistry of Tulsi is highly complex. Tulsi contains hundreds of beneficial compounds known as photo-chemicals. Working together, these compounds possess strong antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, adaptogenic, and immune-enhancing properties that promote general health and support the body's natural defense against stress and diseases. The essential oils in the leaves of Tulsi that contribute to the fragrance and refreshing flavor of Tulsi Tea, are a particularly rich source of valuable photo-chemicals.

The leaves of Tulsi plant are extremely beneficial during the rainy season, when diseases like malaria and dengue victimize the country. Boil the tender leaves of Tulsi in tea and give it to the patient. The juice extracted from Tulsi leaves serves as the best remedy to bring down fever. Tulsi is an essential ingredient in the preparation of Ayurvedic cough syrups. It is highly useful in getting rid of cold and flu. Even, for sore throat, the leaves of medicinal plant Tulsi is of great value.

Tulsi also has the ability to strengthen the kidneys. For those suffering from the problem of renal kidney stones, the decoction prepared by mixing the juice of Tulsi leaves with honey, if taken sincerely for six consecutive months can oust these stones via the urinary tract. For maintaining healthy heart, Tulsi is of utmost value. It helps in lowering the level of cholesterol in blood. Thus, Tulsi plant serves as the most effective remedy to combat cardiac diseases.

Hence, we can say that Tulsi is not only known as the personification of bhakti or devotion to the Supreme Being. But, it also has a lot of significance for mankind, due to the manifold medicinal benefits it provides.

The Process of Fasting in Hinduism

Hindus believe it is not easy to unceasingly pursue the path of spirituality in one's daily life. We are harangued by a lot of considerations, and worldly indulgences do not allow us to concentrate on spiritual attainment. Therefore a worshipper must strive to impose restrains on him/her to get his mind focused. And one form of restraint is fasting.

Fasting has its spiritual and religious merits and dimensions. At the same time this practice of fasting which recommended in all faiths and religious tradition also has great scientific and medical benefits.

Fasting is a period of abstinence from all food or specific items. Fluids are consumed in sufficient quantity to satisfy thirst and physiologic requirements. During the absence of food, the body will systematically cleanse itself of everything except vital tissue. Starvation will occur only when the body is forced to use vital tissue to survive. Although protein is being used by the body during the fast, a person fasting even 40 days on water will not suffer a deficiency of protein, vitamins, minerals or fatty acids. In the breakdown of unhealthy cells, all essential substances are used and conserved in a most extraordinary manner. There is an unwarranted fear of fasting that strength diminishes from the catabolism of proteins from muscle fibers. Even during long fasts, the number of muscle fibers remains the same. Although the healthy cells may be reduced in size and strength for a time, they remain perfectly sound.

 The most important reason of fasting is that the body uses quite a bit of energy to digest food, and when fasting this energy becomes available for other uses. In the fasting state, the body will scour for dead cells, damaged tissues, fatty deposits, and tumors, abscesses, all of which are burned for fuel or expelled as waste. The elimination of these obstructions restores the immune system functionality and metabolic process to an optimum state.  Fasting restores good digestion and elimination, and peristaltic action is quickened. Fasting allows a deep, physiological rest of the digestive organs, and the energy saved goes into self-healing and self-repairing. By eliminating obstructions, by cleansing, detoxification, and purifying the intestines, the blood, and the cells, we can overcome many of our physical ills or handicaps as well as getting a boost in energy. Fasting not only removes obstructions and helps the body to heal itself; it is also rejuvenating and life-extending. These resulting benefits can have lasting affects in your mental and emotional health.

Various studies have shown that fasting increases the amount of free fatty acids in the blood, which aside from glucose are the body’s main source of energy. Fatty acids help to reduce the depletion of glycogen in the liver and muscles during exercise, and prevent the depletion of glucose in blood. Under the normal conditions, glucose is the main source of energy. However, physical effort forces the body to use up glucose quickly, leaving a person feeling tired and exhausted.

The body’s dependence on glucose decreases during fasting since sufficient quantities of amino acids are available in the blood to supply the body with energy. The result of this is an improvement in overall muscle performance. Another prescribed benefit of fasting is the healing process that begins in the body during a fast. During a fast, energy is diverted away from the digestive system due to its lack of use and towards the metabolism and immune system. The healing process during a fast is precipitated by the body's search for energy sources. Abnormal growths within the body, tumors and the like, do not have the full support of the body's supplies and therefore are more susceptible to autolysis.

Finally, the most scientifically proven advantage to fasting is the feeling of rejuvenation and extended life expectancy. A slower metabolic rate, more efficient protein production, an improved immune system, and the increased production of hormones contributes to this long-term benefit of fasting.

Hence, the concept of fasting has been around for thousands of years, even though the ritual has become more popular as a scientific tool. Thus fasting serves a dual purpose. It induces a state of mind, a different state of consciousness, where people can get close to the divine.

Chanting of AUM

India is the land of mystics, seers and sages, who have traveled to depths beyond the mind and thought, and beyond the five senses and elements. Their insights have generated vast bodies of knowledge that the world must look to time and again to understand the meaning of life, and the directions towards which man must move in order to sustain himself and the world in which he lives.

The cosmic blueprint speaks of the underlying unity, interconnectedness and interdependence of all things, for beyond the perceptions of separation and separateness, exists the Primal Essence from which all things arise. Though this primal essence has been called by many names, its power is undeniable. It is ordered in the universal laws of harmony, balance and love. In the silence, and arising from it the mystics identified this vibration which become sound, and this sound is ‘AUM’.

The sound Aum is a stand-alone mini-mantra described in Vedic texts as one of the basic ‘bija’ sound to be chanted for spiritual benefits.

Aum is of utmost importance in the Hindu religion. The symbol Om is considered to be very sacred, as it represents the Brahman, i.e. the source of life. The day of Hindus begins with the chanting of Aum Mantra. It is chanted before every Mantra, Puja or any ritual.

Though chanting of Aum has been traditionally associated with Hinduism or to someone who wears saffron clothes, it is well-backed by Medical science.

The scientific principle behind chanting of Aum relates to the genesis of sounds as mentioned in Sanskrit literature and Hindi alphabets, the Hindi alphabet have vowels (swara) and consonants (Vyanjana). The last consonant in every line is a nasal consonant. Aum is nothing but a combination of a vowel along with a nasal consonant. The vowel here is ‘O’ or ‘AU’ and the nasal consonant is ‘M’.

It is a well-known fact that whenever we suffer physical pain, we automatically produce a vowel sound. For example, the spontaneous reaction when one is pricked by a pin or needle is to say out loud ‘ee’ and when in pain, the sound ‘Ah’ is produced. Allopathic research has demonstrated that chanting of vowels produces interleukin-2 in the body, which has an action, similar to that of aspirin, a painkiller. Therefore, chanting of vowels produces analgesics or painkillers in the body is a scientific fact.

It has been observed that Aum recitation, done in a lower voice and prolonged manner, produces Parasympathetic Predominance and brings about calmness and peace. When Aum is recited in a higher pitch or voice, the heart rate of the individual and the muscular activity of the chin increases manifold. In short, a sympathetic activity increases indicating a nervous excitation.

Depression and anxiety have been seen reduced and a psycho-physiological relaxation, increases due to 20 Om recitations done in the morning and evening for a few days. Hypertension is reduced and the sleep pattern improves by Aum recitation. The emotional stability, mental peace and balance increases as the tensions are removed. In the case with children the memory and IQ has been found improved after recitation of OM mantra. Their perception power also improves. It is postulated that this may happen as the nervous system is influenced by the vibrations and resonance of Om. For these reasons, chanting the Om mantra has received a therapeutic importance.

Aum or Om chanting helps to mobilize the energy in the body and blood in a very gracefully manner. Om meditation removes the blockages in the blood, heart and the muscles. Scientific studies confirmed that Om meditation produces relax response in the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).

The chanting of Aum also helps the metabolic equilibrium in the body. Generally, the excessive stress hormone kills the body cells. But Om chanting brings back the dominance of parasympathetic Nervous System over Sympathetic Nervous System and re-institutes the metabolic equilibrium in the body. Om meditation influenced the limbic system in the brain and controls the memories and the emotions. 

The chanting of AUM is thus a practice prescribed in Hinduism like the numerous rituals that are pointers to peace which is the very nature of oneself. Hence, Aum symbolizes everything - the means and the goal of life, the world and the Truth behind it, the material and the Sacred, all form and the Formless.

Blowing a Conch (shell)

We consciously or unconsciously follow or perform many customs and rituals during the course of our life. We found ourselves thoroughly involved in these customs. These customs start from our birth and remain with ourselves throughout whole of our life. And one such important ritual is- Blowing a Conch in Hinduism.

In Hindu religion, Conch (Shankh), is of great importance and symbolizes luster, brilliance, purity and auspicious beginning. The conch stands for the five elements, the sound of AUM, salagrama, goddess Lakshmi, the waters, purity and perfection. The discus is the terrible weapon of the Lord Vishnu which he used to destroy the evil and protect the righteous. It symbolically represents the light bearing sun, which illuminates and removes darkness. It also stands for higher consciousness which destroys all illusions.

Shankh literally means ‘pacifying the inauspicious.’ It is used as a trumpet and in order to get rid of negative energy and evil spirits. It is also used as a container for holy water (shankha teertham). The shankha (conch shell) mudra is also used during various tantric rituals and meditation. "Shankha" is considered to be one of the most auspicious objects that emerged from the sea during the Samudra Manthan or churning of ocean. 

Shankha is blown at every festival and auspicious beginning and the sound ushers in freshness and new hope. People usually collect and keep water in conch shell and is sprinkled while performing pujas. While performing Lakshmi Puja, conch shell is filled with milk and then it is poured over the idol. Water collected in Shankh is offered while worshipping sun.

Leaving aside the mythology part, the conch shells significance can also be corroborated by science. If you try holding a shankha near your ear, the sound of the gently humming ocean can be heard. This is actually the natural vibration or cosmic energy of the Earth which gets magnified on entering the conch shell.

The vibrations from these conch shells can overpower evil forces from the Earth and at the same time also clear environmental pollution including healing the hole in the ozone layer which causes global warming. According to science, the blowing of a conch shell enhances the positive psychological vibrations such as courage, determination, hope, optimism, willpower, etc. in the blower as well as those around him.

Blowing conch removes speech defects also. It controls and cures stammering, pulmonary disorders, asthma, cough, liver and spleen ailments etc.

It is also said that if a pregnant lady drinks the water of conch collected after offering to the God, then the new born baby will be a healthy one and free from speech defects.

Thus, we can say that the blowing of Conch in Hinduism is a very important ritual. It holds many scientific secrets which not only benefits us but, also help us in getting closer with the Indian rituals. 

Why do we wear Holy Ash on the Forehead

All the customs and rituals of Sanatana Dharma have a perfect scientific basis. The ascetic, Rishis and Munis of India went into deep meditation and investigated various ways and means, for the humanity at large, to lead a happy and healthy life. Hindus and those believing in Hindu religion have been practicing these ancient rituals over the years.

And one such common ritual in Hinduism is- wearing holy marks on the forehead. The most common reason  produced by Hindus for this practice is one should always remember that nothing in this world is permanent and even his own(self who applies it) body would one day end up in a cup of ash. So every human should abolish his selfishness and develop love among every creature in this world.

 The holy ash created from sacred fire also contains positive energy. This energy prevents our body from the attack of negative energy in our body. This reveals our body from pain and mental stress.

Bhasma (the holy ash) is the ash from the homa (sacrificial fire) where special wood along with ghee and other herbs is offered to worship the Lord. Bhasma is generally applied on the forehead. The word Bhasma means, “That by which our sins are destroyed and the Lord is remembered.” Bha implied bhartsanam (to destroy) and sma implies smaranam (to remember). The application of Bhasma therefore, signifies destruction of the evil and remembrance of the divine.

Bhasma is called Vibhuti (which means “glory”) as it gives glory to one who applies it and raksha (which means a source of protection) as it protects the wearer from ill health and evil, by purifying him/her.

Also the fire of knowledge burns the oblations and wood signifying ignorance and inertia respectively. The ash we apply indicates that we should burn false identification with the body and become free of the limitations of birth and death. This holy ritual has scientific importance as well.

The scientific reason behind the application of this sacred ash on forehead is that it has the ability to absorb the moisture and kill bacteria from the bones and joints. People applying this sacred ash on joints and elbows. This is the reason for the practice of applying the sacred ash on the forehead.

It is also applied by people during a fever/illness and the reason might not be known to them or they may think that it brings up the god’s notice to cure them. Scientifically it prevents sinus problems and other bacterial disease. 

Hence, we can say that the application of applying holy ash is a gentle reminder to all spiritual aspirants to burn away all desires/vasanas and discard the false ego and be centered in the ‘self’ that is our real true nature.  This holy ritual has its scientific benefits as well. Having the scientific importance it influences our lives and surroundings.  Thus the application of applying holy ash on the forehead reminds us that the bodies are perishable and only Atma is permanent and therefore we should avoid false identification with the body, mind and intellect.

PRAYER/PUJA

In Hinduism, the rituals are always meant to inculcate feelings of devotion and to bring about the divine orientation of human life. As a part of his house holders responsibilities, a devout Hindu is expected to perform certain rituals everything starting from morning till evening.

These rituals include: making offering to the Gods, to all beings, and to the departed souls especially before partaking any food, showing hospitality to others and continous remembrance of God through recitation of the Vedas or some holy scripture.

The new forms of daily rituals of present day Hinduism include performance of Puja, Practicing meditation and Yoga, recitation of Holy Scriptures, reading religious books, participating in “Satsang”or visiting the company of holy men, doing some charitable work, visiting temples and holy places, or chanting of some mantra or the name of a specific god.

In Hinduism, Puja is essentially a ritual suggestive of symbolic offering of  ourselves, our thoughts, desires, actions and things we own to God, as a mark of devotion and surrender, enjoying whatever that comes to us as a gift from Him. It is a religious ceremony performed in temples or in homes that involves worship through the use of a sacred image.

The word Puja is derived from the Sanskrit roots ‘Puh’ and ‘Jayate’ which translates to an English equivalent that the fruit of enjoyment is born. Puja comprises two main aspects. The first is the repetition of pure Sanskrit sounds called Mantra. The second aspect of a Puja is the Ritual process which, in this case, simply means that the correct symbolic offerings are properly made to the Deity. Through the performance of Puja, we are able to reap the fruits of enjoyment in our daily life.

According to the Hindu beliefs, during the puja ceremony the deity, which is normally a static statue, becomes alive. This happens both at the external level and at the internal level. This statue is brought to life externally through the chanting of mantras or special invocations, or specifically speaking, or establishing of life breadth. Similarly, the indwelling spirit is awakened through the devotee’s sincerity, concentration, devotion and divine grace which are symbolically represented as “Prasad”, or the blessing from above.

To fully understand the effects that stem from performance of a Puja, we must first believe that there is something bigger than ourselves – a supreme consciousness or God – and that God created each of us in His own likeness. Thus we are all miniature representations of this Universal God. We are not an entity unto our individual selves but rather we are each connected to the vastness of this living and breathing universal consciousness. In each of us, for instance, there is an aspect of light which is the representation of prosperity. At the universal level as well, there exists this aspect of light in the form of Mother Lakshami. When we pray to Lakshami Mata, we are essentially making a connection between our individual light center and the Cosmic light center. Once this bridge or connection is made, we as an individual person, begin to experience light (prosperity) in more numerous ways and with greater clarity than we ever did before.

From our Vedic literature, we know that every action that we perform has an effect on the universe. Once we perform the action, we create a change in our local environment as well as a change in the larger universe. Whatever that change is, it will affect us and the world around us. In order for the Puja to show successful results, the knowledgeable Preceptor (Pundit) will create a simulation of the Universe. Through his divine grace, he will cause the connection to be made between the individual and the Cosmos.

The knowledgeable Preceptor knows the sacred Mantras. These are the original sounds that cause vibrations throughout the universe. Each particular mantra will cause a vibration in a specific location in the body of the Yajman and a corresponding location in the cosmic universe. The mantra vibrations run as snake-like waves and connect the micro-area in the body of the Yajman with the macro-area in the universe. 

A mantra consists of a word or several words from the Sanskrit language which have certain sound vibrations which help the devotee attune his consciousness to higher planes as well as invoke specific subtle energies into and around the aura, making it more dynamic and capable of expressing higher aspects of Cosmic Truth i.e. , Love, wisdom, joy, etc.

Most modern-day Brahmins have instilled an expectation in the minds of Hindus that a Puja is of the nature of a Satsang where a mass of people gather to pray, chant devotional bhajans and sing kirtans. This form of worship is simply a public display of community and togetherness. It has little to do with creating a change in someone’s life. It has little to do with connecting the Individual Self or ‘I-ness’ with the Universal Self. It has little to do with the true results that the Yajman is seeking. In summary then, the Puja process will yield positive results only when the Preceptor is knowledgeable, competent and possess divine qualities that will enable him to lead the Yajman and family along the correct path with the two aspects of Mantra and right Offerings to the Deities.

Thus, through the Puja, we are going to God with great humility and affection. We are making an affectionate plea for mercy while we do what God wants us to do for the well-being of the universe. He wants us all to live and act in the best interests of the planet and the universe. We must show God through the Puja that we have received His message with great clarity. And we must do it with heartfelt consideration, i.e.: with great devotion. The Puja ritual is not mysticism or magic. It is only magical in the sense that it instills in the mind of the Performer (Yajman), that he must habituate himself to a different way of thinking, of speaking and of acting. The Puja ritual forces us to bow before God and humble ourselves before Him. And once we practice that level of humility with God, we begin to see God in our fellow Man as well. We begin to see God in everything around us. We reach a new state of equilibrium between us in this human body and the Cosmic or Universal consciousness. And when this happens, the universe allows us to enjoy wealth and prosperity again knowing that we have learnt our lesson – knowing that we are not likely to abuse that wealth all over again.

Lighting a Lamp/diya

Worship of a deity is a subject of faith for all of us. We build a temple room in our house and decorate it well. We also keep the images or idols of the deities we like and perform daily puja (ritualistic worship). We purchase the articles of puja according to our capacity without knowing the scientific reason behind them.

Every article of puja has its own significance and scientific reason. And one such important article of puja is lamp (diya). The lamp has its own special place in Sanatan Vaidik Hindu Dharma. It is a form of a symbol of Tej (absolute fire principle). The lamp is invoked as- Tamsomajyotiragamaya, which means the lamp leads us from darkness towards light. It burns only to give message of peace and light to the man.

The lighting of lamp is an essential part of all the pujas in Hinduism. The flame of the lamp, jyoti has two significant qualities. First it vanish darkness and the other is- it is always upward. The upward movement of the jyoti signifies the path of wisdom and the path of divinity. Flame also signifies the power of all the beings so it is also considered as form of MaaDurga. Without fire element/shakti no one can survive in the universe. It is believed that in the houses where daily jyoti is lighted there can never be darkness/evil forces.

The lighting of lamp also has scientific importance which affects us in many ways. The ghee lamp generates subtle armour of superior quality. It also activates soul energy of the worshippers. The blue color in the flame is the indication of spiritual emotion (bhav). The yellow circles are of chaitanya in the form of Tej tattva projecting in the atmosphere. And the red particles and rays consisting of energy projecting into atmosphere. The flame of the lamp also kills the microbes, present in the environment.

Light symbolizes knowledge, darkness and ignorance. The Lord is the “Knowledge Principle” (chaitanya) who is the source, the enlivener and the illuminator of all knowledge. Hence light is worshipped as the Lord Himself. Knowledge removes ignorance just as light removes darkness. Also knowledge is a lasting inner wealth by which all outer achievements can be accomplished. Hence we light the lamp to bow down to knowledge as the greatest of all forms of wealth. Knowledge backs all our actions whether good or bad. We therefore keep a lamp lit during all auspicious occasions as a witness to our thoughts and actions. The lamp symbolizes our vaasanas or negative tendencies and the wicked, the ego. When lit by spiritual knowledge, the vaasanas get slowly exhausted and the ego too finally perishes. The flame of a lamp always burns upwards. Similarly we should acquire such knowledge as to take us towards higher ideals. A single lamp can light hundreds more just as a man of knowledge can give it to many more. The brilliance of the light does not diminish despite its repeated use to light many more lamps. So too knowledge does not lessen when shared with or imparted to others. On the contrary it increases in clarity and conviction on giving. It benefits both the receiver and the giver.

Hence, we can say that the ritual of lighting lamps in the temples/homes holds so much importance not only spiritually but in a scientific way as well. Thus rituals take us towards the mundane parts of life with significance and celebrations.

Festoon (Thoranam)

India is said to be the cradle of civilization as the earliest of civilization had flourished in this part of the world. Indians were highly civilized and advanced for their period and lived in harmony with each other.

They perfectly understood the nature and followed certain simple habits, which over a period of time became traditions, customs and rituals which are being followed blindly and its original meaning being lost. These practices when analyzed had a scientific reason behind as to why it is being practiced. Like one general practice- is to adorn the entrance and doorways with festoons of mango leaves. Decorating the main door of the houses, temples or any other place, where some ritual is performed, with a festoon (Toranam or a string of mango leaves) is part of the Indian culture.

Normally, this kind of decoration is done during festivals or celebrations. Though there is a scientific reason behind this festoon decoration, this has become a part of the tradition and majority does not even bother to know the actual reason behind doing so.

Indians use a festoon made of fresh and green mango leaves. However, leaves of other species like Neem are also used for this purpose. Most of us know that the green leaves absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. This helps in keeping the surrounding atmosphere clean and hygienic. Keeping, the aesthetics in view, mango leaves are preferred, since their shape adds to the ambience.

However, all other advantages of having a festoon revolve around this basic reason. The air filled with carbon-dioxide, which is lighter than the pure air, gets purified immediately while passing through the festoons. In addition, insects get attracted to the green leaves. This stops the insects from entering the room.

This practice of decorating the main door with the festoon is supported by a strong scientific reasoning and is certainly not a blind belief. Anybody, who has minimum knowledge of science, understands the value of green leaves and same is the case with anybody who has minimum aesthetic sense.

However, it is said, in the Indian villages, dry mango leaves are used for treating certain ailments. The ash of dry mango leaves is used in the first aid for cuts and fresh wounds. This ash is applied directly on the wound or after mixing it with coconut oil. Dry mango leaves ash has the capacity to check the bleeding. The dry leaves in the festoon come handy for providing first aid in such cases.

It is also a scientifically established fact that the green colour keeps a person mentally fresh and even the modern day medicine advises the modern day man, who comes under severe stress during his normal working hours, to spend some time amidst greenery to freshen his mind and soul. A festoon provides this facility at your doorsteps.
Thus, we can say that the rituals make an integral part of the Indian history and will be followed with the same zeal and enthusiasm for centuries to come.

ABHISHEKAM

All religions teach that rituals are very important to get devotion to God. The religions or lands may vary but this belief of importance of rituals is stressed in all faiths. Our ancestors have given us the gift of the rules of community worship in a Temple for the welfare of the people of the community as a whole and the prosperity of the world. These rituals not only connect with our spiritual souls, but they do affect us in a scientific way as well.
The basic and essential principle behind any ritual is the total surrender to God who fills the universe by His glory and is present everywhere. And one such ritualistic practice in Hinduism is- Abhishekam.Abhishekam is the process of bathing the deity. It is a ceremony that is conducted to a deity normally in the form of statue (murti). The deity is invocated by meditating upon and chanting Sanskrit mantras. The deity once present in the murti is then given a foot bath and their hands washed before being worshiped. Various substances are then poured over the deity. Five of these substances – milk, yoghurt, ghee, honey and sugar represent the five elements respectively – water, earth, fire, air and ether. A mixture containing all of these five called (Panchamrit) is also poured over the deity after the initially five have been offered. Whilst each of these substances are being offered, various Sanskrit mantras are chanted asking the deity to accept these items. By offering to the deity these five substances, we are also asking the deity to purify these five elements- water, air, fire, earth and ether, not just in the space where the ceremony is taking place but also within ourselves. The five elements also correspond to the five senses accordingly water-vision, earth- taste, fire-hearing, ether-smell and air- touch. Thereby when we offer these five elements, we also are asking for the purification of the five senses.The process of abhishekam has scientific benefits as well, during this process the offerings are gently poured over the Murti, divine blessings radiate out towards all those present, providing protection, purification and spiritual elevation. These sacred ceremonies purify the Earth’s atmosphere, uplift the community, and contribute to the health and prosperity of the individual.The panchamrit also helps in health care delivery for the health and welfare of mother and child. The idol of Lord is bathed with panchamrit and then, this panchamrit is later distributed as Prasad to the devotees. Panchamrit is a religious symbol of the Hindus. A mixture of these five (panch) things is necessarily present in our religious pujas. There is one conception, or faith behind all this. It is only our own development, which takes place at the conclusion of puja. The five symbols of Panchamrit become the guide or beacons of the evolution of our soul.
Milk in the panchamrit is the symbol of purity. Our lives, characters and actions should be pure. Yoghurt is the symbol of love. It is Yoghurt (Dahi's) quality that it makes others like itself. The intention behind giving Dahi to one's loved one who is travelling overseas is the same, i.e., do not forget your family's love for you; make others like yourself in foreign lands; let others take a leaf from your life which should be an example of Indian culture, so that the whole world can be blessed. Ghee is prepared from milk; our bodies are nourished from ghee in our food. Its greasiness cannot be easily cleansed. The meaning of this is that your life should be such that it should (give nourishment) develop the community so that it prospers and it should not be diseased or defeated by any outside attacks. The deep meaning of being your culture's protector or defender is also evident in this symbol. Now comes the Honey. Of course, we know that it is sweet. But at the same time we know that many honeybees have collected this honey from many flowers and so from a medical point of view it is one which gives strength. So this symbol tells us to adopt these qualities in our lives. We can only face the evil forces of this Kaliyug if our society is strong.
In the end comes the Sugar-candy. This sugar-candy which is prepared from sugar cane is no doubt sweet. It is the symbol of sweetness or love. One may have everything in life but if love or sweetness is lacking then there is no pleasure in life. Man is a social animal and he should not forget that if he wants to live with others in the society then he should be kind in speech and only then the sweetness of life permeates in him. There is a deep meaning hidden in this symbol. Our ego should evaporate as we perform prayers to God. This is to say that we become just like sugar candy which merges with milk and makes it sweet.Hence,we do not reap any benefits simply by performing pujas with panchamrit but we have to understand the deep meanings behind all these symbols and practice them in our lives for the welfare of an individual, community, country and the whole world.