The Sacred Month of Shravan: Devotion and Rituals

Shravan, also known as Shravana, is the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar, and it typically falls between July and August in the Gregorian calendar. The month of Shravan holds significant religious and cultural importance for Hindus.

Shravan is dedicated to lord shiva.

Here are some key points about observing fasts during Shravan:

 

Fasting during Shravan month:

Types of Fasts:

Some people refrain from consuming certain types of food, while others may choose to have only one meal a day.

 

Fasting Days:

Monday (Shravan Somvar) of the month is considered highly auspicious for Lord Shiva's worship, and devotees fast on these days to express their devotion and seek his blessings.

 

Fasting Rituals:

Devotees wake up early in the morning, take a ritual bath, and visit temples to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. They may also perform abhishekam (ritual bathing) of Shiva Linga with milk, water, honey, and other sacred substances.

 

Food Restrictions:

Those observing fasts typically avoid eating non-vegetarian food, alcohol, and foods considered to be tamasic (stimulating lethargy and negativity) during Shravan. Some devotees may refrain from eating onions, garlic, and certain spices as well.

 

Breaking the Fast:

Devotees break their fast after performing evening prayers or visiting the temple. The fast is usually broken with simple, sattvic food like fruits, milk, curd, and other vegetarian dishes. Some devotees break their fast by consuming a meal known as "prasad," which is offered to the deity during the day's worship.

 

Personal Devotion:

Fasting during Shravan is not compulsory, and it is a personal choice based on individual devotion and beliefs.

 

 

Here are the key reasons why Mondays are considered highly significant during this auspicious month:

Lord Shiva's Day:

Lord Shiva is one of the principal deities in the Hindu pantheon and is regarded as the destroyer and transformer.

 

Fulfilling Wishes:

It is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva with sincerity and devotion on Mondays during Shravan can lead to the fulfilment of desires and the removal of obstacles from one's life.

 

Chandra (Moon) and Shiva:

In Hindu mythology, the Moon (Chandra) is associated with the Lord Shiva, who wears the crescent Moon on his matted hair.

 

The Legend of Somvar:

According to a legend, a poor brahmin named Sudeeksha and his wife were devout worshippers of Lord Shiva. Due to their unwavering devotion, they were blessed by the Lord, and their wealth and prosperity were restored.

 

Powerful Energy:

It is believed that the cosmic energy on Mondays is particularly potent, making it an ideal day for spiritual practices and seeking divine intervention.

 

Shravan's Special Significance:

Devotees observe special rituals, fasts, and prayers on Mondays to deepen their connection with the divine and to receive Lord Shiva's grace and blessings.

 

Seeking Blessings and Forgiveness

Here's an explanation of these practices:

Seeking Blessings:

Hindus often seek blessings from their elders, parents, and spiritual teachers as a sign of humility and gratitude. When it comes to seeking blessings from deities, it is an expression of faith and devotion.

 

From Deities:

Devotees believes that the blessings of the deities bring protection, prosperity, and guidance in life's journey.

 

From Elders:

Elders are considered a source of wisdom and experience, and their blessings are valued for a successful and harmonious life.

 

From Gurus and Teachers:

Guru blessings are believed to grant spiritual insight and remove obstacles on the spiritual path.

 

Seeking Forgiveness:

It is considered an essential step toward self-improvement and spiritual growth. Seeking forgiveness can be directed towards both the divine and fellow beings.

 

Forgiveness from Deities:

Devotees seek forgiveness from deities for any mistakes, broken vows, or offenses committed intentionally or unintentionally during their religious practices.

 

Forgiveness from Others:

In Hinduism, festivals like Diwali include the custom of asking for forgiveness from friends, family, and acquaintances, which is known as "Kshama Prarthana."

 

Inner Reflection:

Seeking forgiveness is not only about external actions but also about inner reflection and repentance for one's thoughts and intentions that might have caused harm or hurt to others.