Significance of Ratha Saptami | Surya Jayanthi
Ratha Saptami, also known as Surya Jayanti or Magha Saptami, is a Hindu festival that holds immense significance in the celestial calendar. Celebrated on the seventh day (Saptami) of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Magha, Ratha Saptami marks the symbolic journey of the Sun God, Surya, in his chariot drawn by seven horses. This festival not only pays homage to the solar deity but also holds deep spiritual, cultural, and astrological importance. In this article, we will delve into the various dimensions of Ratha Saptami, exploring its significance and rituals.
Contents
The Mythological Essence of Ratha Saptami:
Ratha Saptami is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, with its origins traced back to the ancient scriptures. The most popular narrative associated with this festival is the legend of Surya’s chariot driven by the seven horses. According to the myth, Surya, the Sun God, rides a chariot with seven horses, each representing a different color of the spectrum. These horses are believed to symbolize the seven days of the week, and their vibrant hues represent the diverse energies and qualities of the sun.
The significance of the seven horses is not merely symbolic; they are thought to epitomize the seven major chakras within the human body, aligning with the idea of spiritual awakening and the harmonization of one’s internal energies. Thus, Ratha Saptami becomes a day of spiritual introspection, encouraging individuals to align their energies and strive for a balanced and purposeful life.
Read More>> Oldest Religion in the World
Astrological Importance of Ratha Saptami:
Ratha Saptami is not just a celebration; it is also closely linked to the positioning of the sun in the cosmic realm. It is believed that on this auspicious day, the Sun God commences his northward journey, marking the gradual transition of the Earth towards warmer climates. This phenomenon, known as Uttarayana, is highly significant in Hindu cosmology.
The shift towards Uttarayana is considered propitious, as it brings longer days and shorter nights, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. The heightened solar energy during this period is believed to be conducive to spiritual growth, making Ratha Saptami an opportune time for embarking on new beginnings and spiritual pursuits.
Religious Observances and Rituals:
Devotees celebrate Ratha Saptami with fervor and dedication, engaging in various rituals and practices to invoke the blessings of the Sun God. One of the most common traditions is the ceremonial worship of the sun, performed at sunrise. Devotees offer water to the sun as a symbolic purification ritual, and prayers are chanted to seek the divine blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.
Another significant ritual is the drawing of Ratha (chariot) using colored powders or flowers. This symbolic representation of the Sun God’s chariot is a way for devotees to actively participate in the celestial journey and express their reverence. Temples across India organize grand processions of idols or images of Surya, mounted on chariots and pulled through the streets, accompanied by hymns and devotional music.
The act of taking a ritualistic bath in the holy rivers or sacred water bodies on Ratha Saptami is considered purifying. Devotees believe that this ablution not only cleanses the body but also purifies the soul, preparing them for a renewed spiritual journey.
Read More>> Significance of Swastik Symbol
Cultural Significance of Ratha Saptami:
Ratha Saptami is not confined to religious observances; it also plays a crucial role in shaping the cultural landscape of India. The festival is an embodiment of the country’s rich heritage, reflecting the deep connection between spirituality and daily life. The vibrant rituals, traditional music, and colorful processions during Ratha Saptami create a festive atmosphere that fosters a sense of unity and communal harmony.
In many regions, cultural programs, including dance performances, music concerts, and traditional art displays, are organized to mark the occasion. These events not only entertain but also serve as a means of passing down the cultural legacy from one generation to another.
Spiritual Awakening and Inner Transformation:
Beyond the external rituals and celebrations, Ratha Saptami is a potent reminder of the importance of inner transformation and spiritual awakening. The chariot, drawn by the seven horses, is not just a mythical entity but also a metaphor for the journey of life. Each horse represents an aspect of human existence – the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions.
On Ratha Saptami, devotees are encouraged to introspect and align these dimensions harmoniously. It is a time to contemplate the significance of the sun as a source of light, warmth, and life, both externally and internally. The festival serves as a catalyst for self-realization and encourages individuals to strive for higher consciousness and a purposeful existence.
Read More>> Why do we Ring Bells in Hindu Temples?
7 Reasons Why Ratha Saptami Shines Bright in Hindu Rituals:
1. Birth of Surya:
Ratha Saptami is believed to be the birthday of Surya. According to Hindu mythology, Surya was born to sage Kashyapa and his wife Aditi. He is the seventh son of Aditi and is considered one of the twelve Adityas.
2. Beginning of the harvest season:
Ratha Saptami marks the beginning of the harvest season in India. Farmers offer prayers to Surya for a bountiful harvest.
3. Change of season:
Ratha Saptami also marks the change of season from winter to spring. The Sun’s rays become stronger and warmer, and the days start getting longer.
4. Spiritual significance:
Ratha Saptami is also considered to be an auspicious day for spiritual pursuits. Devotees offer prayers to Surya and seek his blessings for good health, wealth, and prosperity.
5. Ratha Saptami Puja:
On Ratha Saptami, devotees take a bath early in the morning and wear clean clothes. They then offer prayers to Surya. The puja involves offering flowers, fruits, and other items to Surya. Devotees also chant mantras and hymns in praise of Surya.
Materials Needed:
- Idols of Surya and his consorts Usha and Pratyusha
- Kalash (water pot)
- Betel leaves
- Flowers
- Fruits
- Incense sticks
- Diya (lamp)
- Ghee
- Jaggery
- Panchamrit (mixture of milk, ghee, honey, yogurt, and sugar)
- Rice
- Chana dal
- Jaggery
- Coconut
Steps:
- Clean the house and decorate it with flowers and rangolis.
- Place the idols of Surya, Usha, and Pratyusha on a raised platform.
- In front of the idols, place the kalash filled with water and betel leaves.
- Light the diya and incense sticks.
- Offer flowers, fruits, and panchamrit to the deities.
- Chant mantras and hymns in praise of Surya.
- Recite the Ratha Saptami Katha.
- Perform aarti.
- Distribute prasad to everyone present.
Benefits of performing Ratha Saptami Puja:
- It is believed to wash away sins and purify the soul.
- It is said to bring good health, wealth, and prosperity.
- It is also believed to remove obstacles and pave the way for success.
6. Fasting:
Some devotees also observe a fast on Ratha Saptami. They break their fast after sunset.
7. Social significance:
Ratha Saptami is also a time for social gatherings. Families and friends get together to celebrate the festival. They enjoy special meals and sweets.