BHOOTHA-PRETHA-PISACHAM - An Understanding!

 Om Namasivaya Nama:

Om Gam Ganapathaye Nama

 

AN UNDERSTANDING OF BHOOTHA-PRETHA-PISACHA

 

Someone may ask whether Bhooth-Preth & Pisach are real or fake? Let me tell you from what I know. They are real but not visible to all naked eyes like our own Aathma (Life energy). If somebody, asks whether can you show me your Aathma? What would be your answer to this question? Can we really pinpoint and show the Aathma in a particular place? No. Likewise, it exists but is not visible or tangible. Our great holy Sthothras such as Hanuman Chalisa, Skandha Shashti Kavacham, Dharmasastha Sthothram, Maha Ganapathy Kavacham, Vedas, Purans, etc… are mentioning Bhootham, Pretham, and Pisacham. If they are not existents, then why should such Mahatmas be mentioned about these creatures. Mahatma will not tell lie because they have no commercial interest, they only wished the welfare of humanity. Whether right or wrong or existent or non-existent unless it afflicts one it is difficult to convince the arguer. We need to know that all these creatures are transformed from Jeevathma to another stage due to its KARMA alone. Many beings are there like we live on this Earth. You will get a reward based on your Karma is the only principle this nature follows.  

Boothaas, Prethaas, and Pisachaas are distinctively different. However, they are the same Jeevathmas of different forms because of their Karma deeds. All good or bad statuses are achieved based on our conduct in life. Doing good and getting the best even after death should be the primary responsibility of every human being. In my opinion based on my research, knowledge, and experience is telling me to keep away from different religious leaders’ opinions and suggestions that, only through our way one can achieve liberation, etc. No real God would like to enjoy others’ sufferings. It is our duty to think logically with our own brains to realize. No one can grant liberation from transmigration unless one tries through Ahimsa practices. Doing Himsa (Killing) to any creatures in this universe will bring adverse life thereafter. This is the simplest universal approach that can be practiced by all.

All Jeevas (soul) enter a physical body and leave either after completing their task or premature. Therefore, this entry from one to join another is called YONI.  When Jeevathma enters the human mortal body it is called Manushya Jeevi then after leaving the body it will be called different names depending upon its purity or holiness. Let us learn in detail about those states.

According to Sastras, there are 8.4 million species exist on this Earth. Every species has one unique source center called YONI. In each Yoni plenty of individuals do their Karma. Based on their Karma some will get upgraded from one Yoni to a better Yoni. Therefore, it is the duty of every individual to do good and get ascended to a better status until we liberate ourselves. Some of our colleagues may be helpful, a few troublesome, and some misguide depending upon our interaction with them. It is also our earnest duty to wish for a better life for our mates including Bhooth-Pretha-Pisacham. The harmless remedy is prayers to God who is the custodian for all of us. The bad ones will keep asking for help to overcome their ugly status. Now you know why they are called Bhootha Yoni, Pretha Yoni, and Pisacha Yoni.

All these Bhooth, Preth, and Pisachas are negative energies of Jeevathma, in the form of a dark smoke complexion air bubbles. These subtle Jeevathmaas do not have Earth elements in its body hence there is no specific physical body for them like humans or animals. However, when they afflict or possess living beings, they act with the help of the afflicted body.

Bhootha Yoni (Pocket)

There is no right English translation for Bhooth. However, it can be called a “Ghost/Spirit/Subtle-Element”, a non-transparent subtle energy! In Indian philosophy, all of them are controlled by Lord Siva and his representative Gods. They are collectively known as Siva Bhootha Ganas. It can afflict some sects of people, animals, trees, plants, birds, reptiles, etc, those who misbehave with God’s creation and nature. We can experience only when it afflicts human beings. It is a kind of Bhaadha (affliction/impact/effect). The person who got afflicted may feel as if someone is there with him/her or someone is following just like a shadow but unable to see with the naked eye. Maybe it can be caught on the Kremlin camera. Usually, the Jeevathma gets to this stage only when it leaves the body in an unnatural or accidental or suicidal death of the body.  Basically, these souls have not achieved peace (RIP) due to ineligibility. It is a state where it died but not got the next purposeful birth either as a human or any other species. Therefore, simply float in this atmosphere and possess in someone’s body who is a sinner or weak-minded personality. There are so many classes of Bhoothas, some are good, and some are bad. No one can live on this Earth without the influence of Bhoothas. They can enter our life through one of the 36 body components viz. Pancha Bhooth, Saptha Dhaathus, Navagrahas, etc… Therefore, Bhooth is real not the imagination of a few.

Another meaning of Bhooth is the Past or derived or revealed or created in this universe. The Sanskrit sloka defines it as “Bhoo-thwaath Ithi Bhootham”. Therefore, movable, and immovable bodies on this Earth are called Bhooth.

They can be classified into three groups viz. 1. With Supernatural power, 2. Asurik/Rakshasik power, 3. Casual power.  

About Bhoothas

They are good and bad. There are three major divisions among them viz. 1. Siva Bhootha Ganaas (Follow Lord Siva’s orders, mainly 12 and their assistants), 2. Pancha Boothaas (Five element principal Lords), 3. Pretha Bhoothaas (Departed souls – generally harmful).

Pancha Bhootha Ganas and their significations:

Bhoomi/Earth = Brahma, Jalam/Water = Vishnu, Agni/Fire = Siva, Vaayu/Air = Rudra, Aakasa/Space = Sadhasiva.

5 Stars represented through Bhoomi Thathva – Aswini, Bharani, Krithika, Rohini, Mrugasirsha. 

6 Stars represented through Jala Thathva – Arudra, Punarvasu, Pushya, Aslesha, Makha, Poorva Phalghuni.

6 Stars represented through Agni Thathva – Uthara Phalghuni, Hastha, Chitra, Swathy, Visakha, Anuradha.

5 Stars represented through Vayu Thathva – Jyeshta, Moola, Poorvashada, Uthrashada, Sravana.

5 Stars represented through Aakasa Thathva – Sravishta, Sathabhishak, Poorva Badrapada, Uthara Badrapada, Revathi.

 

Raasis represented by Pancha Bhoothas are

Bhoomi Thathva = Mithuna and Kanya.

Jala Thathva = Rishabha, Kataka, and Thula.

Agni Thathva = Mesha, Simha and Vruschika,

Vaayu Thathva = Makara and Kumba,

Aakasa Thathva = Dhanu and Meena.

 

Lord Siva, Maha Ganapathy, and Dharma Sasthaas are known as Bhootha Nath because all types of Bhoothas will have to listen to these Godheads.

Bhootha Bhadha Kaarakan is known as Rahu (shadow planet among Navagrahas).

Usually, when a Bhoodha Bhadha happens it stays at the rate of 45 multiple, this formula is known as Bhoodhabdhi means 45 number. Therefore, the affliction period could be 45 secs, 45 minutes or hours or days or years, etc…

Now you may wonder how these elements will afflict or attack us?

The fact is that we cannot have a human body without these primordial 5 elements, and they are natural resources and connected with the entire universe and us. They will afflict when we abuse, overuse, misuse, spoil, pollute, etc. They are directly connected with our body and show their weakness or strength in an individual’s horoscope and medical history. An example, let me tell you how people are misusing the water alone. We know our drinkable water source is only less than 3% on this Earth. It is so precious and without sweet water, there will be no living being nor Earth. Whereas there is no limit to misusing the water alone in the name of civilization, innovation, human progress, achievements, or scientific success what not? Likewise, all Pancha Bhoothas and the remaining 31 other Bhoothas are being misused. Nature is getting angry and slapping the human race. Look around at the number of problems and imbalances in front of us. Most of these are created by our own arrogance! This is how Bhoothas can trouble us if we don’t respect and live harmoniously with nature. In my view, science will eventually erase us to nothing! Countries are racing to accumulate nuclear weapons. Imagine if anyone blasts into any continent what will happen to our life (the success story of scientific achievement)!

Pretha Yoni (Pocket)

In English, it is called “Ill-Spirit”. The dead body is also known as Preth. A state of the Jeevathma after quitting the mortal body till the next 12 to 16 days period or till resting. This Jeevathma cannot control its thirst and hunger. Desires are not completely fulfilled by these Jeevathmaas. Through final rites such as cremation, Asthi Sanjyan, Udhaka Pinda Kriya, and Dhaana Dharma conducted by the blood relatives, its Prethathvam (afflictions to Jeevathma due to the impact of death) will be removed and sent to Pithru Lok or other celestial worlds as it is destined in its fate. According to Dharma Sastra, unless one does Rishabothsarjanam (a special pooja conducted on Rishab – bull/calf) its Prethathvam cannot be removed at all. Therefore, conducting any number of rituals will have no beneficial effects. Such Jeevathmas (sad dark energies) will look around to enter some living beings and get their desires fulfilled. These Jeevathmas are controlled by Lord Vishnu. There are so many classes of Prethaas. Most of them are bad in nature.

The definition of Pretham is “Prakarshena Na Gatham” which means, with its own Karma unable to ascend to a better Yoni because it has conducted so many crimes that are not pardonable according to nature. Ideally, someone from their blood relatives or welfare workers must help them to overcome this status and obtain another chance so that they can liberate themselves. When we do holy mantras chanting in an open atmosphere, most of these Pretha-Aathmaas get purity and will be eligible for the next birth. Doing this helps the reciters will get blessings from them. This is the reason why Sanathana Hindu sastras are recommending collective public chanting.  

About Prethas

Lord of Prethas is Yamadharma Raja (Yaman) also represents through Apa-bharani (Bharani) Star.

Pretha Bhadha can be identified through a natal horoscope or Prasna horoscope. Among the seven main Upagrahas (viz Gulikan, Mandi, Dhooma, Vyatipata, Pariridhi, Indra Chapa, Upaketu) the Upagraha Gulikan when placed in Anishta-sthana (House 3,6,8,12) and establish a relationship with Bhadhakadipathi (Please refer to Bhadhakadipathi chart below).

Alternatively, Kethu the shadow planet among Navagrahaas, establishes a relationship with Badhakadipathi, indicating that the person is under the affliction of Pretha Bhadha.

To know whose Pretha is afflicted on a person, one should see whether the Badhaka lord is having a relationship with the 5^th lord then Son or 9^th lord then Father, 4^th lord then Mother, 3^rd lord then Brother/Sister or Friend, 7^th lord then Wife or girlfriend if Rahu then Grand Father and if Kethu then Grand Mother, etc.

Also, to know their gender the sastra recommends seeing if the Badhaka lord’s Navamsa position happened to be a Male sign or Female sign to conclude its gender.

 

Pisacha Yoni (Pocket)

In English, it may be called an “Evil Spirit or Vampire”. The exited Jeevathma from the human body will wait for the first 12 to 16 days to avail the offerings of their relatives, but if nothing was received within the stipulated time due to disrespect or ignorance or disbelief attitude or cruel nature of the blood relatives, will be automatically migrated to Pisachathvam status. Such negative energy souls will float in the atmosphere. It will possess anger, revenge, thirst for drinking blood, eat flush and like to torture its relatives. It also troubles anyone who tries to help its blood relatives. It enjoys when others are getting tortured. There are so many classes of Pisachaas, and all of them are very bad in nature. They look for an opportunity to afflict and torture, especially human beings. They don’t show mercy to anyone. It is difficult to liberate them from this status unless some Mahatmas i.e., Punya Purushas (holy men) decided to help them. In human life, one among the 27 afflicting Bhadhaga Grahaas is Pisachaas. They travel on a typical energy path called Pisacha-Veedhi which is the 9^th Path around us, viz. Brahma Veedhi, Ganesa Veedhi, Agni Veedhi, Jala Veedhi, Naaga Veedhi, Yama Veedhi, Kubera Veedhi, Deva Veedhi then Pisacha Veedhi.

The Sanskrit definition of Pisacha is “Pisitham Maamsam Asnanthi Ithi Pisacha”. The person or energy that consumes Meat/Flesh is called Pisachaas. We know in our societies, almost all of them are eating meat. This means all of them are afflicted with Pisachathvam. We may wonder why meat eaters are behaving in this manner! (I have no right to criticize non-vegetarians! but unfortunately, this is the fact according to Pramanam - the spiritual source). Please forgive me in case I hurt anyone’s feelings or individual taste in consuming food). I have a request to all people to abstain from eating meat. Once upon a time, all humans were eating meat but later when they realize the side effects and its contribution to their behavioral nature, the intelligent ones quit eating meat and adopted vegetarian food. Nowadays the craze for eating non-vegetarian food and alcoholism is beyond words. According to Bavishyath and a few other Purans, by the end of Kaliyug, humans will eat other humans' flesh (on our earth some humans are already started eating human flesh and drinking hot blood). I can understand why Punya Aathma Sage Vyasa wrote in this manner in his Puranams. When Rakshasas are becoming lawmakers, every nonsense can become a law of the land. Those Pisachaas can influence so much! Our only rescue is to exercise deep innocent prayers!

 

Why such Jeevathmaas are falling into these Neecha Yonis?

A.      Some of the reasons are here below:

1.   The sastras say, while alive, those people who commit so much of sins and atrocities even after getting timely advice from a Wiseman to stay away from committing non-pardonable sins will eventually fall in the pocket of Bhooth-Preth-Pisacha Yoni. Even after realizing their sinful acts, they don’t do Prayaschith (suitable remedies) and ask for forgiveness from the victim or God.

2.   After death no proper final rites were performed on such Jeevathmaas. Please note anyone who remembers God and does rightful activities will never fall into this situation. If the Jeevarasam (DNA) contains even a drop of divinity such a situation will not arise.

3.   The people who get afflicted (Bhadha) by these Neecha Yonis are the ones who committed innumerable cruel sins in their past life.

4.    Hiding truth and got punished innocents due to their wealth and power. Though this can be understood from their current life horoscope and do the necessary Prayaschitham to overcome the affliction. If not, even if they are a devotee (Kaarana Bakthi not a true devotee) in this life, still they can be attacked by these impure powers. Every Bhadha has different nature, and it can be felt only from the behavior of the afflicted.

5.      Non-performance of proper final rites.

6.   Cursed by others to attain this status (The person who is cursing must be an extraordinary genuine person, otherwise, it will not affect).

What do they scare off?

A.  Sun rays, sharp lights, the light of a divine lamp, the sound of mantra (Mantra Dhwani), presence of divine people (Mahathmas Saannidhyam) and their breath (Ni-swaasam), Sacrred Kavach, Kaali Devi, Lord Sri Dharma Sastha, Ganapathy, Subramanian, Hanuman, Bhairavan, Thrimoorthys’, Thrisakthies’, temple bell, sound from conch, processions of the temple deity, holly books (Divya Granth), Holy water or places, smoke from the Yagna kund, electricity, iron, ardent devotees, people with will power, tantric, Sidhars, etc.

How do they catch/possess living beings?

A.   It will look for an opportunity to enter when people are physically and mentally weak, at unfavorable place time, and circumstances, planets are weak in their horoscope and their ruling period, influenced by the tantric activities (Aabhichara Kriya), the body is not influenced by Rakshas such as Kumkum, Vibhoothi, Original Chandhan, Yantra, Mantras initiated thread, Temple Nirmalyam, etc. When walking alone in a lonely place (Vijana Pradesam), passing by cremation or burial grounds, the body is not kept clean, when certain alms (Dhaana) are received, those who completely forgotten ancestors, selfish people, troubling and torture others on account of vengeance, exposed to caves, hilltops, water reservoirs, road junctions, dark places, etc…

Now let us learn Bhoothas in detail and whether they are part of good or bad categories. Most of the Bhoothas try to help all creatures in achieving their birth task. Some will trouble because the people do not deserve due to unethical life (unrighteous).

 

Who are the Badhaka Lords for each Lagna and Raasi?

For Chara Lagna (moving signs) – Mesha, Kataka, Thula & Makara are their = 11^th Lord.

For Sthira Lagna (static signs) basis – Rishabha, Simha, Vruschika, and Kumba are their = 9^th Lord.

For Ubhaya Lagna (dual nature signs) basis – Mithuna, Kanya, Dhanu, and Meena are their = 7^th Lord.

 

When it comes to Badhaka Raasi and its in-charge, the sastras consider Badhaka in two categories viz Maha Badhaka (Great dangerous impact) and Sada Badhaka (dangerous impact) as per the below table.

 

RAASI                    MAHA-BADHAKA                       SADHA-BADHAKA

Mesham                  Kumba (Saturn)                                Kumba (Saturn)

Rishabham              Makara (Saturn)                               Makara (Saturn)

Mithunam               Dhanus (Jupiter)                               Dhanus (Jupiter)

Katakam                  Kumba (Saturn)                                Rishaba (Venus)

Simham                   Vruschika (Mars)                              Mesha (Mars)

Kanya                     Vruschika (Mars)                              Meena (Jupiter)

Thula                      Kumba (Saturn)                                Simha (Sun)

Vruschika                Vruschika (Mars)                              Kataka (Moon)

Dhanu                   Vruschika (Mars)                              Mithuna (Mercury)

Makara                 Kumba (Saturn)                                Vruschika (Mars)

Kumba                  Kumba/Vruschika (Saturn/Mars)     Thula (Venus)

Meena                 Dhanu (Jupiter)                                  Kanya (Mercury)

 

To establish whose Badha is shown in one’s horoscope and which Deity (Devatha) is causing this Badha, we need to investigate the planet that is occupied by the Badhaka Sthanas.

Here below the set answers. If,

Sun = Siva Bhootha Ganas, Moon = Durga Devi, Dharma Devatha, Mars = Subramanian, Mercury = Yakshan and Ghandharvan, Jupiter = Brahmanan, Venus = Yakshi and Brahmarakshas, Saturn = Kirathmoorthy or Ayyappan, Rahu = Sarpa, Kethu = Chandaala Devatha.

 

Let us learn what Badha/afflicted/possessed in a person?

Badhas are innumerable just like the particles floating in the atmosphere. God’s creation is unimaginable. Many of them will take birth automatically based on the Karma they did. To name a few; Devatha Bhadha, Navagraha Bhadha, Bhootha Bhadha, Pretha Bhadha, Pisacha Bhadha, Dur Devatha Bhadha, Saapa Bhadha, Desa Bhadha, Kaala Bhadha, Grahana Bhadha, Dushkarma Bhadha, Sarpa Bhadha etc.

All Bhadhas are born out of Lord Siva’s wrath (Kopam). Here Siva means absolute truth. For our own good sake, we should never kindle his patience and invite trouble. He possesses the highest patience and compassion towards his creation, at the same time once he loses his patience it is not good for anyone. Such Baadhaas will automatically look for the source of the trouble caused and torture them without any mercy. No one will be capable of defending Siva Bhoothaas. People are committing so many crimes in this world thinking that no one is going to touch them. But they should know that if they are having a good time they will be spared, once the bad time starts they see 360-degree rotation! Do always good to everyone, and never think of doing bad to any living beings whether human or animal or plants or birds or anyone along with us. We will never know even if we commit a silly wrong action that can give birth to a Baadha because the entire universe is SIVA itself in multiple forms. Also, note many celestial bodies and some Rishis dematerialize their original body and take up some living beings on Earth and roam around, while doing so if we happen to trouble or kill them that is enough to invite trouble for many life. So many beings are here on Earth within multiple hidden tasks that we won't be able to identify them due to a lack of Thapo-Balam. 

These Bhadhas are fundamentally classified under 3 groups. They are:

 1. Hanthu Kaamaas (they want to kill and take revenge on the afflicted),

 2. Randhu Kaamaas (Physically and Sensually capitalize the afflicted),

 3. Bhokthu Kaamaas (Love to have Bali/Sacrifice).

 

In general, Bhokthu Kaamaas (Soumya) are soft nature Badhakaas, Hanthu Kaamaas, and Randhu Kaamaas (Agneyars) are aggressive and have punishing attitudes. Bhokthu Kamaas are compromised on getting them Bhali (Sacrifice) or fulfilling their desires (Icha) so that they will leave the body. Whereas Hanthu and Randhu will never leave the body until they take revenge on the afflicted person. If anyone does Maha-Paapam (the greatest sin whereby no Prayaschitham is allowed by scriptures and God) they can get these Bhadhas on their body. Devotion and earnest prayers towards God are the biggest shields to defend these Badhakaas. Who knows what we did in our past life and even to some extent current life that can trouble us. Do you know why sinners are doing more sin and troubling their co-livers? Because they are under the severe influence of these Badhakaas.

 

All living beings are born at a particular time and such time is embedded with all universal celestial powers, which rule our mortal body. Those celestial powers are influencing our body through Planets, Stars, 5 Elements, 5 Thanmatras, 7 Dhathus, 4 Antha Karanas, 5 Indriyas, 49 vital breaths of air, etc…

They are 27 Bhadha Grahas usually attack humans. Out of them, 18 are very important Bhadhakaas.  They are Amarar (Deva), Asurar, Naagar, Yakshar, Gandharvar, Rakshasaas, Hedraas, Kasmalaas, Nisthejaas, Basmakaas, Pithrus, Kusaas, Vinayakaars, Pralaapaas, Pisachaas, Andhyajaas, Yonijaars, Bhoothaas.

The other 9 Bhadha Grahas are Laghu Bhadha Grahas. They are Apasmara (Fix), Brahmanaas, Brahmarakshas, Kshathriyaas, Vaisyaas, Soodraas, Neechaas, Chandaalas, Vyandharaas.

 

How to know what type of Bhadha Graha is influencing our life?

In a horoscope, if the Badhakadhipa

is a relative/friend of Lagnadipa then the Bhadha Graham is Randhu Kaaman,

if the enemy then Handhu Kaaman (Agneyan) and

if equal strength then Bhokthu Kaaman.

 

Please note, Badhaka Planet can be considered as per Natal Lagna or Natal Raasi. I prefer Lagna over other schools of thought because Lagna is YOU and BODY. All other aspects are some parts of the body.

I daily offer simple Tharpanam to Bhootha-Pretha-Pisachaas for their upliftment as well as seek their good wishes on me and my family. The approach is -

Bhootha-Pretha-Pisacha Thrupthyartham, Vaasodhakam Dhadhami, Thrupyatha Thrupyatha Thrupyatha

 

 

Sarvam Brahmarpanamasthu!

Om Hara Hara Nama Parvathi Pathaye Hara Hara Mahadeva

Om Sarvathra Govinda Naama Sangeerthanam Govinda Govinda Govinda

Om Parasakthi Mathaki Jaya Jaya

 

Compiled by R. V. Venkiteswaran (Venky) – April 2023

 

*** Subham-Asthu ***

 

LIST OF FINAL RITES - KARTHA (Sanathana Hindu Sutra)

 Om Namasivaya Nama:

Om Gam Ganapathaye Nama

 

KARTHA - THE RESPONSIBLE PERSON FOR CONDUCTING FINAL RITES OF A DECEASED – As per “Smruthi Mukthaphalam” and “Vaidhyanatha Dhikshitheeyam”.

 

According to learned scholars and practicing Purohithas, there are 32 family members by priority is allowed to conduct the final rights Kriya for the deceased. According to Veda sastras, the person who conducts this Apara Kriya is eligible for obtaining the rewards of conducting 100 Aswamedha Yaagam, because assisting the helpless Jeevathma to ascend to a celestial world is the biggest ever duty one can do. In the absence of nonperformance of final rites, the Jeevathma will simply float around in the atmosphere without getting the chance to join another body.  The period of conducting this Kriya is vary from each school of discipline that follows different Vedas, Sutras, Region, Religion, Samskaram, and sub-sect, etc., however, everyone does something that helps the helpless Aathma to attain Paralok or next birth. Some sect of people does not believe in doing any of these Kriyas because they believe that the Jeevathma has no expiry and it leaves one body and enters another. Therefore, no need to do any of these prescribed Apara-Kriyas. However, the majority believes in conducting final rites followed by remembering them and offering food as a part of life. People feed other living beings on their behalf/name (In fact this is what is called Srardh to ancestors by Vedas).

Many types of Puthras/Sons (children) are mentioned in the Sastras as well as we can see in our daily life too. The priority among Puthras is Aurasa Puthran. Puthran means Aathmajan (father becoming son through women/wife) who rescues parent’s Aathma from Naraklok called “Puth” therefore he is called Puthran. This Aurasa Puthran is defined in 5 ways.

1.  AURASA PUTHRAN (Deceased Eldest Son born to a legitimate first wife out of his own Bheeja/Semen/Garbhadhaan).    

a.       The Eldest Son.

b.       If they were twine, then the firstborn.

c.       If the deceased had many wives and all of them had children, then the senior most Son. 

d.       If the deceased had adopted a child (Dhathu Puthran) as a senior son, but later own wife give birth to an Aurasa Puthran then the Aurasa Puthran will become the first Kartha.

e.       If the deceased had two wives and the Child adoption procedures (Vaideega Sweekaaram) were conducted through the first wife and later the 2^nd wife gave birth to a son, then this Aurasa Puthran is Kartha to father, 2^nd wife as well as the first wife.

2    

In my opinion, I would add the following members too. Taking into consideration of current lifestyle affairs it is imperative to look for alternatives. At the end of the day, no SMRUTHI is permanent. It can be changed according to time, space, and region.  A lot of senior citizens are enrolled in old age homes or orphanage homes and many children will not even look back to their parent's statuesque. In such cases, of course, SAKHA is allowed to take care, yet some more options will give peace of mind to the deprived families.

1.  Besides the final rites (Part One), after the Sanjayanam (immersing bones and ashes into holy rivers or sea) (Part Two) the Jeevathma’s expectations increase many folds. Therefore, the next 12 days are crucial (Actually it is up to 354 days i.e., 29.5 lunar days x 12 months). At least a pot of water and Anna Pinda must be provided to them with a Sankalp (resolution/determination).

 

Om Swaha-Swadha-Dakshina Devyai Nama:

Sarvam Brahmaarpanamasthu

Compiled by R. V. Venkiteswaran (Venky) – April 2023

www.parasakthifamily.org / www.venky50.blogspot.com

YouTube: Parasakthifamily

JOURNEY OF A SOUL / JEEVATHMA

 Om Namasivaya Nama:

JOURNEY OF A SOUL (JEEVATHMA) – BIRTH, LIFE & DEATH!

 

Death is nothing but the Jeevathma (Soul) leaving a body and going to meet its next task. The gap between death and the next birth is a state of deep sleep. The life energy has no expiry, and it will never die or take birth. Birth and death are for the mortal body only. However, the Jeevathma gets painted by the Thriguna effects, and Karma stinks. This Jeevathma is also known as Sookshma Sareeram (subtle body), made up of 17 elements (Dhathoos) as opposed to the mortal body of 7.

 

Once the Jeevathma leaves the body, it will get a name as “Chethana”, also known as Prethathma, and by default, it will proceed to Yamapuri (The South Quarter - the abode of Lord Yama Dharma Raja, situated around 2.076 million KM away from Earth in subtle form). Whereas for Punyaathmas, it is just a formality to sign the papers of Yamalok and accept the Divya Sareeram (divine body) and proceed to the auspicious celestial worlds. Whereas, for Paapaathma, a Yathana Sareeram (suffering body) will be given, and a long stay at Yamapuri is inevitable by retaining its Prethathma name until the next birth.

 

When a person dies happily (without much suffering), he/she get the next birth quickly.  This will help Jeevathma to clear all its accumulated debts as fast as possible and look forward to getting Moksham (liberation from transmigration). People who die with lots of suffering will not get the next birth easily. Some Scholars and Puranas say that if a wise person suffers too much in this life, at death, God might have decided to wipe off all his/her past Karmas in the current life itself and going to give Moksham (liberation). Therefore, some suffering cannot be underestimated. It is difficult to understand the divine play of God.

 

Kindly note, God has given certain privileges as well as a lifestyle to every Jeevathma before it gets permanent residence in Paralokam or merges with Paramathma. Therefore, show gratitude towards all living beings, God, and Nature. Life with a body is rare, too; human life is highly precious. The whole cosmic world is having its representation in our perishable body itself. Those who know this secret will always possess a compassionate nature and respect human life, along with gratitude towards God. There are infinite Jeevathmaas (life energy) floating in our atmosphere, and looking forward to getting a human birth so that I can try for Moksham and merge with Paramathma. In all other celestial worlds, Jeevathmas can only enjoy limited benefits as per the credit balance in their account. Whereas, to escape from transmigration, the Jeevathma must enter a human body and live on Earth to realise Paramathma.  This rule is fixed by nature, and exceptions are rare.

 

The unique quality of a Jeevathma is that whenever it enters a particular body, it will do its duty (Dharma) of that living being (whether animal or man or plant or any other species) without any hesitation or error. Jeevathma is one of the most obedient being in this universe.

After the death (leaving the body), the Jeevathma is destined to live first three days in nearby water banks (Jalam), 2^nd three days in fire (Agni) and the next three days in space (Aakasa) then finally on the 10^th day it is allowed to stay in its own house along with relatives and accept the last feast (Prabhootha Bali performed) from family members. Usually, the Brahmins do not allow the Prethathma to roam around due to their rituals. They invoke that Prethathma into a black stone (Paashaana) and place it under the soil to offer water and food for 10 days. On the 10^th day, they will remove its Prethaa-bhootha-thwam (inauspicious) and change the status to Pithru Bhoothamthma (auspicious). By uniting them with their ancestors (Pithru Varga) they will stay in Pithrulok until the next life. Ideally, the same Jeevathma will take birth in the same family/clan until it gets Moksha Prapthi. This cycle can continue up to 144 births.

 

After death, on the 10^th day, the last Upa-Praana known as Dhananjaya will exit the mortal body (if not cremated) so that the body can decay. If already cremated, then the Upa-Praana will join the Mukhya Praana floating in space. These Dasa Praanaas will always maintain their subtle relationship with the same Jeevathma until the Jeevathma attains Moksham (Liberation). Please note that within 10 days from the day of death, the Kartha (Pithru Karmi) will be offering 122 Sraardhams (oblation) to the departed Jeevathma.  

The duty of a Kartha (living blood relatives) is such, he must ensure a permanent seat for his father/mother’s Jeevathma in Pithru Loka to receive a designation and legal status as Pithrus. 

7 clans of Pithrus are known as “Paran-Parai”. 1. Prapithamahan/Prapithamahi (great grandfather/g.g. mother), 2. Pithamahan/Pithamahi (grandfather/g. mother), 3. Pitha/Matha (own father/mother), 4. Self and own brothers, 5. Puthran & his wife, 6. Pouthran & his wife, 7. Pra-prouthran & his wife.

According to Rishis and Sastras, at the time of death, the human mind will be in either of the four stages known as Artham or Roudram or Dhanya, or Suklam. 1. Artham = captivated in seeking the sensual pleasures (the reward is rebirth as grass and plants, etc). 2. Roudram = Even after knowing the truth, nature will give us an opportunity to turn our mind towards God, but due to bad Karma and wrong habits, the mind remains running after sexual pleasures. The reward is rebirth in Neecha Yonis as an animal. 3. Dhanya = Being Jithendriyan by practice (conqueror of sensual pleasures), the mind remains in God’s lotus feet (reward is rebirth in Devalokam as Devan/Devi). 4. Suklam = mind merged in Paramathma Chaithanyam to attain Moksham (Liberation).

After leaving the mortal bod,y the Jeevathma continues its travels to its destination depending upon Karma's deeds. Jeevathma will travel along with the force of nature / cosmic move. The entire universe is rotating like an air ring known as expansion. All Jeevathmas are floating just like dust particles in this motion. However, as per the choice of Supreme Brahman, they get segregated due to their Karma deeds. Astrology is the only common source to find out its current status. By the grace of Brahman, some planetary positions were identified by the Maharshis and Astrologers. The planetary position to be considered at the time of death is Lagna. Some great scholars can get indications from the birth horoscope Lagna too.

If Venus is positioned in Lagna or aspects or associated with death chart Lagna or Lagna Lord, the Jeevathma after completing the formalities will leave for Pithru Lok (Chandra Mandalam), if Jupiter/Guru is positioned then it will go to Deva Lok/celestial worlds if Mercury/Budhan or Saturn/Sani is positioned or associated then it will proceed to Naraka Lok/Hell.

Note: All you need to know is whether these planets were occupied in the death Lagna or have any associations based on the set rules given here. Lagna could be any one of the 12 Rasis. Unless you know astrology, it is difficult to understand these combinations.

 

There are many rules for the association of a planet with other planets. The main ones are: (V = Venus), (J = Jupiter), (M = Mercury), and (S = Saturn).

1. V/J/M/S Planet placement in Lagna (top priority and confirmed positive result).

2. V/J/M/S Planet aspect to Death Lagna

3. Death Lagna lord positioned in Venus or Jupiter or Mercury, or Saturn’s house

4. Venus or Jupiter or Mercury, or Saturn, positioned in the death Lagna lord’s stars.

5. Death Lagna itself in the house of Venus or Jupiter or Mercury, or Saturn.

If a natural malefic, such as Saturn or afflicted Mercury, is associated with death, Lagna or Lagna Lord, then the Paraloka Vaasam (stay) will be longer and more difficult. Whereas if associated with Venus or Jupiter, then the enjoyment will be for a longer period.

 

If Dhaayaathis (blood relatives) do legitimate Dhaana and Dharmic rituals (charity) or special prayers on behalf of the deceased during the final rites, such good deeds’ merits will be credited to the deceased's account, and his/her Prethathvam will be replaced with purity and get an entry to Pithru or other celestial worlds. This is the reason why we are doing so many rituals even after death. It is very difficult to estimate who did what during life, because Karma Rahasyam and its rewards are unexplainable. Due to this consideration, if the Jeevathma was supposed to go to hell can be redirected to a different Lokaas (world) on account of the new Punyam generated by his/her Dhaayaathis during the first 12 days of Pithru Karmas. Kindly note that the rituals will differ according to Varna Aasramas.  Eventually, everyone does something good for their ancestors!

 

Do you want to know why Pithrus are cursing their relatives? (Usually, most astrologers pinpoint this issue while reading a horoscope.) Because when the Jeevathma tries to enter the Pithru Loka, the authorities will deny its entry due to Prethathvam. Accordingly, the Prethathmaas and their ancestors will curse their relatives out of no choice. (Pithru and Pretha Saap Dosham). The power of the curse will look for its same DNA living on this Earth, especially those who are enjoying the material comforts provided by the deceased.  

Pithru Karmas can be conducted either by Vaideeha Path (Vedic approach) or Avaideeha Path (non-Vedic approach). Pithrus does not demand too many things except a few grains of raw or cooked rice, a little water, sesame, curd, and ghee. A very simple 5 food items that can earn huge blessings on Kartha. Out of these five items, even if we offer water alone, that is more than sufficient (The Panchanga Thidhi Devatha is the significator of the Water element). In other words, Jeevathma should not dehydrate, whereby the living DNA (Jeeva Rasam) of blood relatives will be suffocated or depletion. This means the side effects will be reflected in those living blood relatives on this earth. One can perform the rituals according to his/her Kula Dharma. Please don’t try to adopt Anya Dharma to satisfy ancestors; it will not work. According to our Varna Aasrama Dharma, everyone is expected to do as per their Kulaa-chaaram. At the end of the day, all Jeevathmaas will reach the right destination according to their Varnaa-srama Dharma only. Everyone is expected to perform their final rites and follow-up Srardhams only as per their Varnaa-asrama Dharma system. We need to do this meticulously to make sure that Jeevathma’s journey is comfortable and helps them to reach Pithru-Loka or other celestial divine worlds. Change of religion is only in the mind, not in DNA!

Five types of Srardhams are recommended by the Dharma Sasthram. They are 1. Paarvana Homa Srardham, 2. Hiranya Srardham, 3. Tharpana Srardham, 4. Anna Srardham, 5. Smarana Srardham. Out of these, ideally, 1, 2 & 3 are religiously recommended for Brahmins and 4 & 5 for other Varnees. Now it is Kali Yugam and no special importance is given to any particular Varna Aasrama, therefore everyone can do whatever is possible on the Srardham day (Thidhi). This is the least we can do for our ancestors who sacrificed their lives for our comfort.

Please note our ancestors used to conduct 96 Srardhams in a year for one deceased!

The departed Jeevathma will eventually attain Sadh Gathi (Good Paralokam) if one of these conditions is met at the time of death. They are Utharayana Punya Kaalam, Krishna Paksham, Day time, Thought of God, hearing the holy sound OM or any divine mantra or Paropakaara Chintha, wearing or associated with Vibhoothi, Gopi Chandhan, Kumkum, Rudraksha Maala, Thulasi Maala, Punya Nadhi Theertham, holy books, holy Yantras or Symbols, Mangalya Soothram, Upaveetham, having accumulated holy credits, etc. Alternatively, one can donate these auspicious divine items while living (Dhaan in Advance), or blood relatives, i.e., Dhayaathees, after death. There are 84 Dhaanams prescribed in our Sasthram. All or at least 24 Dhaanams are to be offered during the initial Pithru Karma.

There is a saying that one’s birth should be during Sukla Paksham and death occurs in Krishna Paksham to enjoy Iha Para Sukham. 

In the death horoscope, if the Yogi Lord (In Panchang, the Yoga lord is called Yogi) is posited in the Yogi stars or its friends’ stars, then also the Paralokam life will be excellent. Such people might have done lots of holy deeds while living, and even if nobody offers any external support to such Jeevathmas, still they will find their own way to enter the divine Paralokam, i.e., Pithru Devathaas will help such Jeevathmas to attain Sadh Gathi. Those who have attained children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren also get seats in celestial divine worlds.

Kindly note that all Boothas (living elements or beings) are under the control of Lord Siva, Prethas (departed souls) are under the command of Lord Vishnu, and Pisachas are under the control of Sakthi. Therefore, to remove their evil effects, the sastras recommend we conduct Saiva, Vaishna, and Saaktha poojas respectively. Please note these vibrations are felt in the Sookshma Sareeram (subtle form) and hence are not visible to the naked eye or among normal people. They don’t have a physical body since the Earth element is missing in their body constitution. They are simply dark negative energy in the form of dark air (just like carbon dioxide). 

A person who empties the Sanchitha Karma deeds can alone achieve Moksham (Liberation). Whereas the mortal body can achieve Mukthi from temporary issues. Sanchitha and Prarabdha Karma deeds will follow the Sookshma Sareeram (Jeevathma/Soul). Sanchitha can be eradicated by chanting God’s name, especially Lord Siva, and Prarabdham can be nullified by undergoing the Karma deeds while living. Kindly seek the help of God to fulfil the Prarabdha Karma and avoid doing non-Vedic Prayaschithams/Remedies. Usually, non-Vedic Prayaschitham may provide temporary relief, but it will surely produce more sin and bad Karma deeds that will mess up the next life because unlawful activities may be initiated by the doer involving Himsa (torture) to others.

Due to past good karma deeds, a person gets a sound and self-sufficient life in this birth. However, that person, while living, encashes all good rewards quickly without knowing that these comforts are due to the good deeds of the past, and it is going to dry up soon! This is the fact and effects of Maya (Goddess of illusion). However, even after knowing this truth by himself OR being reminded by the scriptures or the Wisemen, he never bothered to recredit the encashed good deeds by doing meritorious acts. One must thank God and continue with meritorious acts so that when he/she meet the final day, there will be a surplus credit balance in his/her account. Many people do more harm to others and to nature owing to the current comfortable life, and accumulate demerits. Please note, no one is permanent on this Earth; therefore, one day, at a destined time, the last breath will take place, and the Jeevathma leaves the body with an accumulated net balance of demerits (Paapam). An intelligent person must remember to accumulate maximum Punyam (merits) during life before all Punya gets exhausted, so that the Paraloka life will be great and even after taking rebirth on Earth, it will be a good life.

After understanding all this information, I would like to strongly recommend a simple prayer to Almighty God on a daily basis. That.

Anaayaasena Maranam, Vina Dhainyena Jeevatham, Marana Samaye Thava Paada Darsanam, Dhehime Paramaathmane!

Om Nama Parvathi Pathaye Hara Hara Mahadeva

 

Authored By R V Venkiteswaran (Venky) – April 2023

Om That Sath Brahmarpanam Asthu

AKSHARABHYASAM / VIDHYARAMBAM POOJA

Om Namasivaya Nama:

From time immemorial Bharatheeya Sanathanee has adopted a supreme method of Vidya initiation to the desired pupil. I would like to give a full picture of this divine function.

There are four Navarathries being celebrated by the Devi Upasakaas viz. Maha Navarathri (Makaram Maasam), Vasantha Navarathri (Meena Maasam), Aashada Navarathri (Mithuna Maasam) and Sarada Navarathri (Kanya Maasam). Here the Sarada Navarathri is having immense importance because the lord of Knowledge/Education Budha Graham (Planet Mercury) is exalted in his own house Kanya Raasi / Badrapadha). This means Mercury is very happy to bless the highest knowledge for the child who got initiated during Kanya month. Moreover, it is a period of Sarada Navarathri occassion. Goddess Sarada Devi is the significator and giver of primary to highest knowledge to people. Therefore, taking this importance into consideration, Mahathmaas have unanimously decided to conduct the knowledge-imparting auspicious time (Vidhyaramba Muhoortham) during this particular Navarathri that too on a  Sukla Paksha Vijaya Dasami Thidhi Day. 

There is a difference between Vidhyarambam and Aksharaabhyaasam. Nowadays people are mixing both and calling it as Vidhyarambam. Never mind, no spiritual activities will go to waste. However, it is our duty to know the importance between these two functions since we are seeking knowledge. 

Vidhya is a boon but earned through self-efforts as an achievement. However, every seeker must have a master or spiritual Guru or Aacharyan to get initiated and enter the world of knowledge. Any knowledge we get through an experienced selfless master will definitely produce better results in our life. Now let us learn Vidhyarambam and Asktharabhyasam in detail.  Both are almost the same but different too. Anyway, both have to be started one day or the other hence, ideally, if it is on an auspicious day then it will be not only useful to the person but also for the entire world.  

What are Aksharabhyaasam and Vidhyarambam?

Akshara means language syllables or non-perishable and Abhyasam means practicing or training. Aksharabhyaasam is teaching a person to identify the Vidhya and Avidhya. Vidhya will ensure the person achieves all knowledge that includes gross and subtle (Sthoolam and Sookshmam) plus spiritual understandings too. Whereas, Avidhya will teach him/her only the knowledge to achieve material success, comfort, and bread-winning knowledge. Avidhya can only ensure material comforts without achieving spiritual growth which will force the person into the transmigration system. 

Whereas, Vidhya will ensure all material comforts along with Moksham (liberation), free from the birth and death life cycle. The purpose of human birth is to attempt and achieve the Moksham, in the meanwhile enjoying all the comforts provided by the Prakruthi through an individual's fate. Therefore, the Aksharaabhyaasam will help the person to learn both Vidhya and Avidhya. 

Vidhyaarambam is initiated to learn the absolute truth and wisdom through divine knowledge and Aksharabhyaasam is initiated to learn what are the Vidhya and Avidhya for survival purposes.

Q. When to start Aksharabhyaasam?

Ans. Between the age of 3 and 5 is ideal. There is no specific Muhoortham is required. However, Sukla Paksha Dhasami Thidhi is auspicious. Before Sunrise of Sukla Paksha Dasami of Sarada Navarathri period (Brahma-Muhoortham 2 hours before Sunrise).

Q. When to start Vidhyaarambam?

Ans. Naturally, a specific day and time are required depending upon the Vidhya one is choosing. Each Vidhya has a specific significator either from Divine bodies, Nava Grahas, or Human Saints. Please note all Vidhya belongs to Goddess Saraswathi/Sarada Devi. It is better to obtain her blessings before the initiation of a particular Vidhya. The Muhoortham (elective time) is selected based on a particular Vidhya's nature, its characteristics, and its relative planet position. 

The next day of Vidhyarambam day is known as "Anvarambam", means the 2nd day of Vidhyaarambam day is re-celebrated under the guidance of initiator or trainer or Guru or Aacharya or Parents or learned elders. Whatever was taught on the Vidhyaarambam day must be practiced in front of the masters. This is a mandatory practice to ensure that the learned Vidhya is being practiced without a break. Every student must have only one motive to learn things fast and accomplish the task as early as possible and surprise their Gurus. 

Muhoorthams for Vidhyarambam:

Saaraswatha Yogam is the greatest time. It has been described in 13 ways in Astrology. Alternatively, Poorvahnnam (between 0830-1100 Hours) and Madhyahnam (1100-1330 hours) times are also good. 

What are the important Vidhyas?

Namely 18 Vidhyas. They are;

4 Vedas (Rig, Yajur, Sama & Atharvana)

6 Vedangaas (Siksha, Kalpam, Vyakaranam, Chhandhas, Jyothisham, Niruktham), 

8 sastras (Meemamsa, Nyaayam, Smruthi, Puranam, Aayurvedam, Dharnuvedham, Ghaandarvavedam, Artha sastram.

No. 18 means Vidhya Itself. That is how this knowledge is put together called Vidhya.

There are other Vidhyaas one needs to know for enlightenment. These are secret learning as well as worship hence it is not commonly or casually available to learn. 

1. Aathma Vidhya = Aathma itself is Brahman!

2. Maha Vidhya = Brahman itself is Aathma!

3. Sri Vidhya = Motive of all Vidhya worship through secret worship is to know the Absolute Brahman Goddess Parasakthi is Sri Vidhya. This is also known as the ultimate Vidhya. There are only 14 Sri Vidhya Upasakaars who realized Parasakthi in gross and subtle forms. 

LANGUAGES AND THEIR IMPORTANCE

Samskrutham / Sanskrit Language - 54 letters (12+34+8). The important ones are 51 letters.

Malayalam Language - 56 syllables (16+40) or 51 syllables (16+35). From time to time, modern education is interfering with the ancient practice of languages and cuts down letters to mess up the system. Who can question the rulers or authorities? as God said, Sambavaami Yuge Yuge! 

Tamizh / Tamil - 30 syllables (18+12) letters.

Note: The list is endless. Bharat/India alone has more than 121+ languages and 270 Mother tongues, 700 spoken languages, and 18000+ dialects. More than 22,000 languages are spoken across the world. 

THE IMPORTANCE OF ACHARYAN / GURU / INITIATOR 

In Sanathana Dharma, the Guru or Aacharyan has an important role in one's education whether spiritual or material. We consider our Gurus are the representative of God and place them in the 3rd rank among Prathyaksha Gods (Matha, Pitha, Guru, Dhaivam) unlike other systems of the world. 

On the day of Aksharabhyaasam, the Guru uses his Ring finger (Sun finger) or Gold pen and writes OM on the tongue of the child. Syllable OM mantra is the only Aksharam (it has sound as well as form) in this universe, which will represent all three times (past, present, and future). This is the only syllable that will never perish hence it is called Aksharam. This process is called the initiation of Aadhyaathma Vidhya, thereafter with the help of the Index Finger (Jupiter's finger) Guru will write all other syllables such as Mathruka, Vyanjana, Swara, etc., that helps to learn Bhoudhiga Vidhya (casual language) on a plate filled with raw rice or paddy. Such an important person is a true Guru.

The Thaithareeya Upanishad Sikshavalli says "Aachaarya Poorva Roopam". Guru is the first to be worshiped to learn all types of knowledge. 

METHODOLOGY

According to Astrology (Jyothi-Sastram), planets Jupiter (Guru) and Mercury (Budhan) are the significators of Vidhya (Education and Knowledge). One's natal horoscope, houses 9th, 2nd, and 5th are the Bhavaas to be considered to know the education of the person. 9th house indicates spiritual and higher education whereas 2nd and 5th houses represent primary to higher education. Good planets occupying or aspecting or owning these houses indicate the best performance in education.

On this auspicious day, the Aacharyan will perform special pooja to Sri Maha Ganapathy, Saraswathy, Lakshmi Narayan, Kula-Devathaas, Upadesa Guru (Guru's Guru), and Navagraha Devathaas respectively.

Initiator / Acharyan (he could be his own father/mother) should face the East quarter and the Child (Sishya / Disciple) to face the West quarter. 

First Aksharabhyaasam then followed by Vidhyabhyasam to be initiated.

The secret of Pranava Manthram is that it is a constitution of Akaram = No 10 (as per the Katapayaadi Sankhya Vidhya System) plus Ukaram = No 100 and Makaram = No 1000 makes a total of 1110. If we add all these numbers the answer will be just 3. These 3 represent Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheswara or Saraswathy, Lakshmi, and Durga or Rajas, Sattva, and Tamas qualities. 

If the child is going to sit on Mother's lap then on her left thigh, and for Father, it should be right thigh. If the child is going to sit on  Acharya's lap then for a male child is on the left thigh and for the female child, it is on the right thigh. If the child is capable of sitting alone then simply face the initiator towards the west. 

Acharyan uses the Gold pen tip (Swarna Thoolika) dipped in honey (Madhu) before writing initiation. Gold represents Aayuss (long life) and Honey represents Sweetness. Assuming that the child will talk sweet words that deliver long-lasting impressions hereafter. 

We write HARI SRI GANAPATHAYE NAMA - According to Katapayaadi Sasthram (number value science), the value of syllables is 28+2+3+5+1+6+1+0+5 = Total 51. This is the total number of Aksharaas of Malayalam and Samskrutham. Since the child is very small and may not concentrate or cooperate, our great Maharshis found this simple technique to complete the entire writing process in a simple mantra. If the child is cooperating then the initiator can write all syllables. 

During the Kanya Month as long as the Dhasami Thidhi exists, one can perform Vidhyaarambam.

The child should not erase the letters written on the plate, however, the Acharyan can do so. It is better to remember. 

AKSHARA / VIDHYA AARAMBA POOJA PADHATHI

Pooja Samagrigal (Pooja Items)

Lamp with oil or ghee, God's photos (optional), 1 Jala Paathram, 1 plate (let it be other than steel), 1/4 Kg raw rice, fragrant flowers, and Thulasi leaves, Dhoopam/Agar Bathi, Swarna Thoolika or Gold ring, Wooden seat (Palaka) for both, Sandal paste, Pure fresh water to fill in the Jala Paathram, Nivedhyam, Karpooram or Badra Deepam (Ghee lamp single face).

Pooja Functions

First place God's photo (if any) then light the lamp facing east. Take a few flowers and rice then say 'Om Dheepa Lakshmi Devyai Nama:, Om Vidhyaaramba Devathaayai Nama:, Moolatho Bhrama Roopaya Madhyatho Vishnu Roopine, Agratha Siva Roopaaya, Deepa Raajaya Namo Nama:" now offer those flowers to Deepa Lakshmi.

Do Kalasa Pooja - Fill water on a pot (Pancha Pathram or Kindi), take a few flowers and rice then say Gangecha Yamune Chaiva Godhavari Saraswathi, Narmade Sindhu Kaaveri, Jalesmin Sannidhim Kuru. Asmin Pancha Pathra Jale Punyaham Bhavathu. Hari Om put those flowers into the Jala Pathram. 

Sprinkle the Punyaaha Jalam on oneself and all pooja items to be used for the Pooja by saying Om Bhoor Bhuva Suva.

Sankalpam - Suklambaradaram Vishnum Sasi Varnam Chathurbhujam, Prasanna Vadhanam Dhyaayeth Sarva Vignopasanthaye, Nirvigna Devathabhyo Nama: Asya Kumarasya/Kumareesya or Asya Yajamanasya Kumarasya/Kumareesya (if you do it for others children) Aksharabhyaasa Vidhyaarambha Poojan Yadha Sakthim Karishye.

Dhyanam and Aavahanam of respective deities - Ganapathy, Saraswathi, Lakshmi Narayanan, Sri Sadh Guru, Kula Devatha, and Aadithyaadhi Navagraha Devataas.

Pancha upachaara pooja samarpanam - Ghanda, Pushpa, Dhoopa, Deepaihi Sakala Aaradhanaihi Suvarchitham.

Prathyaksha Nivedhyam samarpayaami.

Deeparadhana and accept God's Prasadham.

Now do Aksharabhyasam and Vidhyaarambam.

Finally, take a few Thulasi leaves and put some water in the palm and say Kaayena Vaacha Manasendriyaiva Bhudhyathmanaava Prakruthe Swabhavaath, Karomi Yadhyath Sakalam Parasmai, Narayanaayethi Samarpayaami.  Offer the water along with Thulasi leaves to God.

Again take water on your palm and say Om Thath Sath Bhrahmaarpanam Asthu. Offer that water to Goddess.

========== Subhamasthu ==========

Note: Kindly make use of the rice used for writing the alphabet for making Payasam or cooked rice and offer it to the child who received initiation. No other person should consume that cooked item. 

Certain pooja functions cannot be described here, this must be done by the Purohit / Poojari himself. Purohit means the one who is the well-wisher of all. 

  

WHY SANATHANA HINDU GODS USING ANIMALS AS THEIR VEHICLE?

 Om Namasivaya Nama:

This is a question often raised by nonbelievers of the Hindu concept of life. Let me explain in a simple way. As we all know Hindu Gods are highly compassionate toward all living beings irrespective of their mortal body and their activities. Gods have given full freedom to all creatures. Almost, every being listen to that supreme call except the superiority complex-covered humans! Yet, due to God's patience and tolerance, we are continuing our life to some extent of our own will. Thank God.  

I could realize some key points which I would like to list down:

1. Bharatheeya Samsakarm (civilization) is time immemorial as well as its understanding of God and Goddess. 

2. Since the beginning of the human race, humans identified few animals as domestic and few are wild forests. Whereas the Gods were compassionate towards humans and those animals who trouble them were defeated or articulated as God's vehicles. We know before us as well as along with us there were Asuraas & Rakshasas (Super powerful beings, demons, goblins, etc) and they have the ability to change their body from one to another especially animals to scare and trouble humans due to their Bad Karma.

3.  To Set an example or a message to the whole universe that all Animals have the right to live in their own freedom and uphold their Dharmic activities. No one should trouble them unless they become intolerable or fearful. If you trouble such animals then God will get angry and you should face the wrath of God. Besides this, it is as good as shaming God by troubling their vehicles (Vaahan). 

4. Animal rights protection. 

5. Those who are spiritually enlightened (applicable to humans and Gods too) will be able to attract even the cruelest animals as slaves.   

6. According to Sanathana Dharma, every being is getting its mortal body only due to their past Karma. Therefore, getting birth as animals are part of this system. However, the Jeevathma (soul) is pure in its initial stage, but after getting a good life, sometimes due to its ego and Prarabha Karma Deeds, the Jeevathma gets spoiled with sinful blemishes and dust. This will lead the Jeevathma to enter into a cruel animal form whereby humans and other animals will hunt and kill them as punishment for their unholy actions. This process will continue for a few births. Thereafter one day a specific God will show mercy on those animals and give them a place to be with God itself as servants. This act of God is indicating that the merciful God does not ignore even the animals and gives them a chance to be proud of their animal form. Whenever we worship God or Goddess we do give respect to its Vahan too.

7. Animals' legs and skin are very strong and protective. Therefore, making them their vehicles is a far better choice than any other type. Each God who selected or considered a particular animal as their vehicle will coincide with their specialization. As we all know in the Hindu way of life every God is responsible for a particular job or blessing accordingly they have chosen the right animal.

8. Human nature is that they nurture and make use of them (animals). Once the job is done or they become redundant they will kill and eat. Just like a use-and-throw concept. Ideally, humans are more mature and well-mannered beings in their social life, hence men should show mercy to them, but unfortunately, human's craze for eating meat become crueler than animal tendencies. However, no God does this kind of demonic activity. Therefore, Gods want to be models for humans to learn and live in harmony. 

9. Gods always won the animal characteristics and their strength. Gods can make any beings their servants. I consider the Animal characteristics are subtle (Sookshma) then the Animals are gross (Sthoola) casual bodies. 

10. Every animal is important in this ecosystem, especially for humans to survive. Animals' discharges (dung, urine, etc...) help in cultivating fertile soil and sweet water in the forests. It has the capability to remove salt from hard water to sweet water and many other facilities. If no animals are on this earth means the human race will vanish in no time. That is why God created every being systematically one after the other and one serves the other and one prays for the other! We all know we have only a few percentages (3%) of sweet water on this Earth. Preservation of Animals is very important for our own survival. Hence please show mercy to Animals. Unless they attack us we should not attack them. Please note side effects of the desalination water process is more harmful than the natural process. Please be part of nature. Humans are not supposed to eat meat. Their teeth and digestive systems are not designed for that. Our food is pure vegetables and grains only. Due to wrong propagation by some vested interested people are putting precious human life in trouble. This Earth is for all not humans alone.

11.  Animals and birds are senior to us. God created all creatures before us so that humans can live comfortably on this Earth.  According to Sanathana Dharma Sasthra, God stopped creating new beings when He finished manufacturing Humans. Humans are brainy, well-manned, and good-looking and act as per the instruction of the mind. Therefore, they are special to God. We need to keep this status and look good in front of our beloved Gods. We should not degrade ourselves before our divine parents. When humans started disrespecting animals, He thought of the idea to make a few animals as their vehicles so that humans will respect and stay away from disturbing them. I think God very carefully found this idea! God even took some incarnations are animals to earn respect for animals. Some examples are Lord Krishna and Cows, Datha-Threya and Dogs, and Jesus and Goats. Lord Maha Vishnu took Avatar of fish, tortoises, boar, half lion half man, horse, etc...  

12. Some Gods and Goddesses used these animals as their Vehicle (Vahan). 

1. Soorya (Sun God) = Horses, 2. Agni (Fire God) = RAM, 3. Brahma (Creator) = Swan, 4. Durga = Lion, 5. Ganapathy = Mouse, 6. Indra = Elephant, 7. Karthigeyan = Peacoke, 8. Mahalakshmi = Owl, 9. Sarawathy = Swan, 10. Yamuna Devi = Tortoise, 11. Sani = Crow, 12. Shashti Devi = Cat, 13. Sithila Devi =  Donkey, 14. Vishnu = Eagle (Garuda), 15. Yama = Male Buffalo, 16. Lord Ayyappan = Tiger, Elephant, and Horse, 17. Vaayu Deva = Horse, 18. Varuna  Deva = Crocodile, 19. Bhairava = Dog, 20. Chandra = Deer, 21. Rahu = Tiger. The list is very big, therefore I would like to stop here.

===== subham =======