Shattila Ekadashi Meaning
Shattila Ekadashi is a Hindu religious holiday that is observed on the 11th day of the lunar month of Ashwin, according to the Hindu calendar. It is believed to be a very auspicious day and is marked by fasting and prayer. The word “Ekadashi” means “eleven,” and Shattila Ekadashi is so named because it falls on the 11th day of the lunar month. The holiday is also known as Shat-tila Ekadashi, Chaturmas Ekadashi, and Chaturmas Shattila Ekadashi.
On this day, Hindus believe that observing a fast and offering prayers to Lord Vishnu can bring blessings and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It is also believed that observing this fast can help to purify the mind and body, and can bring about spiritual enlightenment. Many Hindus also visit temples on this day to offer prayers and perform special rituals.
Shattila Ekadashi 2023 Date, Day, and Time
Shattila Ekadashi 2023 Starts: 17 January 2023, Tuesday, 06:05 PM
Shattila Ekadashi 2023 Ends: 18 January 2023, Wednesday, 04:03 PM
Shattila Ekadashi Significance
Shattila Ekadashi is considered to be a very auspicious day in the Hindu calendar, and it is believed to have great spiritual significance. Here are a few ways in which this day is considered significant:
- It is believed to be a day of great merit, and that observing a fast on this day can bring blessings and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
- It is believed that Lord Vishnu, to whom the fast is dedicated, is especially merciful on this day, and that he can grant forgiveness of sins and bestow other blessings upon those who observe the fast with devotion.
- It is a day of purification, both of the mind and body. Fasting and prayer are believed to help purify the mind and bring about a sense of inner peace and clarity.
- It is a day for spiritual growth and self-reflection, as it provides an opportunity to focus on spiritual matters and make a connection with the divine.
- It is a time for social bonding and community, as many people observe the fast together and participate in shared rituals and practices.
Overall, the significance of Shattila Ekadashi lies in its potential to bring about spiritual growth, purification, and a sense of connection with the divine.
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Shattila Ekadashi Vrat Katha
There are several legends and stories associated with Shattila Ekadashi, which are told and retold during the observance of this holiday. One such story is as follows:
According to legend, there was once a king named Muchukunda who had performed many great deeds and had acquired great wealth and power. Despite his success, however, he was not happy, as he was plagued by a sense of restlessness and dissatisfaction. In his quest to find inner peace and contentment, the king went to see a sage, who told him that the only way to find true happiness was to observe a fast on the day of Shattila Ekadashi and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu.
The king followed the sage’s advice, and on the day of Shattila Ekadashi, he fasted and prayed to Lord Vishnu with all his heart. As a result of his sincere devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared before the king and granted him a boon. The king asked for the gift of inner peace and contentment, and Lord Vishnu granted his request. From that day on, the king lived a life of peace and happiness, free from the worries and troubles that had previously plagued him.
This story is often told during the observance of Shattila Ekadashi as a way of reminding Hindus of the importance of devotion, prayer, and fasting on this auspicious day. It is believed that by following the example of King Muchukunda and observing the fast on Shattila Ekadashi, one can also find inner peace and contentment.
Shattila Ekadashi Puja Vidhi or Rituals
Here is a general outline of the puja vidhi, or ritual worship, for Shattila Ekadashi:
- Take a bath in the morning, preferably using holy water from a river or lake.
- Wear clean, fresh clothes.
- Set up a small altar or puja space in your home, and place a picture or idol of Lord Vishnu on it.
- Place a few fresh flowers, a lamp, and some incense in front of the deity.
- Offer prayers and prostrations to Lord Vishnu, using mantras such as the “Vishnu Sahasranama” or the “Vishnu Stotram.”
- Chant the “Ekadashi Mahatmya,” which is a special scripture that relates the legends and significance of Shattila Ekadashi.
- Offer food and other offerings to Lord Vishnu, such as fruit, sweets, and honey.
- Spend the day in meditation and contemplation, focusing on the divine qualities of Lord Vishnu.
- In the evening, perform the aarti, or ritual worship with lights, and offer your final prayers and prostrations to Lord Vishnu.
It is important to remember that the specific rituals and practices of puja may vary depending on the individual or community observing Shattila Ekadashi. These are just general guidelines and can be modified or adapted as needed.
Shattila Ekadashi Mantra
Here is a mantra that is commonly used during the observance of Shattila Ekadashi:
“Om Namo Narayanaya”
This mantra is a salutation to Lord Vishnu, who is also known as Narayana. It is believed to bring blessings and divine grace when chanted with devotion and concentration.
Here is the meaning of the mantra:
Om – This is a sacred syllable that represents the ultimate reality and the divine.
Namo – This means “I bow” or “I offer salutations.”
Narayanaya – This is another name for Lord Vishnu, and it means “the one who dwells in all beings.”
Therefore, the mantra can be translated as “I bow to the divine, who dwells in all beings.” It is a way of expressing reverence and devotion to Lord Vishnu and seeking his blessings.
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Shattila Ekadashi Fasting Rules
Here are some general rules for observing the fast on Shattila Ekadashi:
- The fast should be observed from sunrise on the day of Ekadashi to sunrise on the following day.
- During the fast, abstain from all food and drink, including water.
- Some people may choose to eat a single meal, called “phalahar,” on the day before Ekadashi, consisting of fruits and milk. This meal should be taken before sunset.
- Avoid eating grains, beans, and legumes during the fast.
- On the day of Ekadashi, spend the day in prayer, meditation, and other spiritual practices, such as chanting mantras or reading scriptures.
- After the fast is over, you can resume your normal diet, but it is recommended to avoid non-vegetarian food and alcohol for a few days.
It is important to note that the specific rules for observing the fast on Shattila Ekadashi may vary depending on individual beliefs and practices. Some people may choose to follow a more strict set of rules, while others may be more lenient. It is up to each individual to decide what works best for them.
Shattila Ekadashi Benefits
There are many believed benefits to observing the fast on Shattila Ekadashi. Here are a few:
Purification of the mind and body: It is believed that abstaining from food and drink on Ekadashi helps to purify the mind and body, and can lead to a sense of inner peace and clarity.
Spiritual growth: Fasting and prayer on Ekadashi are seen as an opportunity to focus on spiritual matters and make a connection with the divine. This can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of one’s own spiritual path.
Forgiveness of sins: It is believed that Lord Vishnu, to whom the fast is dedicated, is very merciful and can forgive the sins of those who observe the fast with devotion.
Physical health benefits: Some people claim that fasting on Ekadashi has physical health benefits, such as weight loss, improved digestion, and increased energy.
Social bonding: Observing the fast on Ekadashi can also be a way to strengthen bonds with family and community, as it is often observed together.
It is important to note that the benefits of observing the fast on Shattila Ekadashi are largely spiritual in nature and may vary depending on individual beliefs and experiences.
Shattila Ekadashi Bhajans or Songs
Bhajans are devotional songs that are often sung during the observance of Shattila Ekadashi. Here are a few popular bhajans that are often sung on this day:
“Hare Krishna Hare Rama” – This is a popular bhajan that is sung in praise of Lord Krishna and Lord Rama, both of whom are incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
“Jai Jai Radha Ramana” – This bhajan is a hymn of praise to Lord Krishna, who is also known as Radha Ramana.
“Govinda Jai Jai” – This bhajan is a celebration of Lord Krishna’s many divine qualities and attributes.
“Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” – This bhajan is a salutation to Lord Vishnu, who is also known as Bhagavan Vasudeva.
“Vishnu Sahasranama Stotram” – This bhajan is a recitation of the Vishnu Sahasranama, which is a list of 1,000 names of Lord Vishnu.
These are just a few examples of the many bhajans that can be sung during the observance of Shattila Ekadashi. It is a time for devotional singing and prayer, and any bhajan that brings a sense of devotion and connection to Lord Vishnu is appropriate.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Shattila Ekadashi
What to do on Shattila Ekadashi?
Here are a few things that you can do on Shattila Ekadashi:
Observe the fast: Fasting on Shattila Ekadashi is a central part of the holiday, and it is a way to purify the mind and body and make a connection with the divine. If you choose to observe the fast, remember to abstain from all food and drink, including water, from sunrise on Ekadashi to sunrise on the following day.
Offer prayers and prostrations to Lord Vishnu: Shattila Ekadashi is a day dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and it is a time to offer prayers and prostrations to him. You can do this by reciting mantras, singing bhajans, or reading scriptures.
Visit a temple: Many Hindus visit temples on Shattila Ekadashi to offer prayers and perform special rituals. This can be a meaningful way to connect with the divine and participate in the holiday.
Spend time in meditation and contemplation: Shattila Ekadashi is a day for spiritual reflection, and it can be a good time to spend some time in meditation or contemplation. You can focus on the divine qualities of Lord Vishnu, or simply allow your mind to be still and quiet.
Share the day with others: Observing Shattila Ekadashi can be a meaningful way to bond with family and community, and you may choose to spend the day with loved ones, participating in shared rituals and practices.
Why is Shattila Ekadashi celebrated?
Shattila Ekadashi is celebrated as a way to honor Lord Vishnu and seek his blessings. According to Hindu belief, Lord Vishnu is the preserver of the universe, and he is responsible for maintaining the balance of the world. On this day, Hindus offer prayers and perform special rituals to Lord Vishnu, seeking his protection, guidance, and blessings.
The fast on Shattila Ekadashi is also seen as a way to purify the mind and body and bring about spiritual growth. By abstaining from food and drink and focusing on spiritual matters, Hindus believe that they can achieve a sense of inner peace and clarity.
In addition to these spiritual reasons, Shattila Ekadashi is also seen as a time for social bonding and community. Many Hindus observe the holiday together, participating in shared rituals and practices. This can be a meaningful way to strengthen bonds with loved ones and participate in the shared culture and traditions of Hinduism.
What to eat in Shattila Ekadashi?
During the fast on Shattila Ekadashi, Hindus abstain from all food and drink, including water. However, some people may choose to eat a single meal, called “phalahar,” on the day before Ekadashi, consisting of fruits and milk. This meal should be taken before sunset.
After the fast is over, Hindus may resume their normal diet, but it is recommended to avoid non-vegetarian food and alcohol for a few days. Some people may also choose to continue eating a mostly vegetarian diet for a few days after the fast as a way to continue the process of purification.
It is important to note that the specific rules for observing the fast on Shattila Ekadashi may vary depending on individual beliefs and practices. Some people may choose to follow a more strict set of rules, while others may be more lenient. It is up to each individual to decide what works best for them.
Is Ekadashi full moon day?
Ekadashi is not necessarily a full moon day. Ekadashi is the 11th day of the lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar, and it can occur at any time of the month, regardless of the phase of the moon.
In the Hindu calendar, there are two lunar fortnights in a month, and Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha, or the waxing moon phase, and the 11th day of the Krishna Paksha, or the waning moon phase. So, Ekadashi can occur twice in a month, at different times depending on the phase of the moon.
It is important to note that the dates of Ekadashi may vary from year to year and from one region to another, due to differences in the lunar calendar.
What is Ekadashi in English?
Ekadashi is a Sanskrit word that means “eleven.” It is used to refer to the 11th day of the lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar. There are two lunar fortnights in a month, and Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha, or the waxing moon phase, and the 11th day of the Krishna Paksha, or the waning moon phase. So, Ekadashi can occur twice in a month, at different times depending on the phase of the moon.
Ekadashi is an important day in the Hindu calendar, and it is observed with fasting, prayer, and other religious practices. It is believed to be a very auspicious day, and many Hindus believe that observing a fast on Ekadashi can bring blessings and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
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