12 Names of Lord Surya – Chanting on Rathasapthami for Health & Prosperity
Rathasapthami – The Birth Festival of Lord Surya
Significance of
Rathasapthami
Rathasapthami, also known
as Surya Jayanti, marks the transformation in the movement of the Sun.
From this day, the Sun’s rays shine more abundantly on the northern hemisphere,
symbolizing new beginnings and auspiciousness. Devotees believe it is the birth
festival of Lord Surya, celebrated with rituals, offerings, and prayers.
Rituals and Practices
- Ashtakshari Mantra:
Chanting “Om Namo Narayanaya” 108 times while offering Argya
(water oblation) to Lord Surya at sunrise brings grace, concentration, and
piety.
- Sacred Bath:
On Rathasapthami morning, devotees take a cold bath after placing seven Arka
leaves, three plum fruits, three plum leaves, and rice on their head while
chanting Surya’s name. This ritual is said to have scientific health
benefits.
- Offerings:
Rice payasam is prepared and offered to the Sun God on bean and
jilledu leaves, considered divine for absorbing solar energy. The
prasadam is believed to be auspicious and beneficial for health.
The Twelve Names of Lord
Surya
Chanting the Dwadasha
Nama Stotram (12 names of Surya) is a tradition on Rathasapthami. Each name
carries profound meaning:
1. Mitra
– Friend of the world, giver of health and wisdom.
2. Ravi
– Preacher of the Vedas, worshipped through stotras.
3. Surya
– Inspirer and creator of life.
4. Bhanu
– Radiant one, charging the world with energy.
5. Khagudu
– Shining in the sky, regulator of the universe.
6. Poosha
– Nourisher of life and wealth.
7. Hiranyagarbha
– Protector during cosmic destruction.
8. Mareechi
– Dispeller of darkness, healer of diseases.
9. Adithya
– Controller of all things, giver of welfare.
10. Savitru
– Provider of livelihood and joy.
11. Arka
– First deity of worship, source of Surya Namaskar.
12. Bhaskara
– Illuminator of the world, revealer of mysteries.
Spiritual &
Scientific Benefits
- Spiritual:
Worshipping Surya grants health, wealth, longevity, wisdom, and spiritual
upliftment.
- Scientific:
Exposure to sunlight strengthens immunity, improves metabolism, and
enhances mental clarity. The cold bath ritual is linked to improved
circulation and vitality.
Conclusion
Rathasapthami is not just a festival but a cosmic celebration of energy, health, and renewal. Chanting Surya’s twelve names and performing traditional rituals on this day is believed to bring prosperity, spiritual growth, and harmony with nature.
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