Significance of Shatila Ekadashi: Rituals and Benefits of Sesame Seeds
Understanding Shatila Ekadashi
In Hindu tradition, the Ekadashi fast holds great importance and is regarded as a highly auspicious occasion. Scriptures indicate that there are 24 Ekadashis celebrated annually, occurring twice each month during the Krishna and Shukla Paksha phases of the lunar calendar. Each Ekadashi carries its own distinct spiritual meaning. It is believed that engaging in the recommended rituals and honoring Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi on this sacred day brings joy, tranquility, wealth, prosperity, and fulfills the wishes of devotees. According to the Vedic calendar, Shatila Ekadashi will be observed on January 14th this year.
Rituals for Shatila Ekadashi
Religious texts highlight that performing six specific rituals involving sesame seeds on this day can eliminate misfortune and usher in happiness and prosperity for families. This day is also deemed highly beneficial for pleasing Lord Vishnu and receiving blessings from ancestors. Renowned astrologer Anand Bhardwaj from Ujjain shares insights on special rituals involving sesame seeds on Shatila Ekadashi that can help alleviate life's challenges and attract good fortune.
Key Rituals to Follow
1. On Shatila Ekadashi, it is auspicious to wake up during Brahma Muhurta (pre-dawn hours) and bathe with water infused with sesame seeds. This practice not only promotes physical cleanliness but also serves as a means of spiritual and energetic purification, believed to dispel negative energies and rejuvenate the body and mind.
2. According to scriptures, the Ekadashi fast is incomplete without acts of charity. Donating sesame seeds, sesame seed ladoos (sweets), or other sesame-based items on Shatila Ekadashi mitigates the adverse effects of Saturn and alleviates suffering. Giving sesame seeds to those in need is said to bring merit and cleanse sins.
3. To purify the home and surroundings, conducting a Havan (fire ritual) with sesame seeds on Shatila Ekadashi is highly recommended. On this day, face east and offer sesame seeds into the Havan kund (fire pit) while reciting the mantra ‘Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Namah’. This practice is believed to eliminate negativity and invite happiness, peace, and prosperity into the home.
4. Incorporating sesame seeds into meals on this auspicious day is considered very beneficial. First, offer sattvic dishes made with sesame seeds to Lord Vishnu, and then consume them as prasad (blessed food). This act is thought to enhance health, prosperity, and spiritual well-being.
5. Applying a paste made from sesame seeds to the body before bathing is also regarded as particularly fruitful. The medicinal and purifying qualities of sesame seeds cleanse the body of impurities, and from a religious standpoint, this is a sacred method of preparing oneself for the worship of Lord Vishnu.
Ancestral Peace and Blessings
6. Shatila Ekadashi is also crucial for ensuring peace for ancestors. Offering water mixed with sesame seeds to one's ancestors on this day is believed to bring tranquility to their souls and secure their blessings for their descendants, thereby enhancing happiness, prosperity, and good fortune within the family.
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