Ayushya Suktam or Ayushyasukta, a revered hymn in Hinduism, is specifically intended to increase the duration of life. This hymn is part of various religious practices, particularly those involving a havana or homa (ritual offerings into a sacred fire), using Vedic mantras. These practices are prescribed in ancient texts such as the Bodhayana-grhyasutras (3.7).
Key Aspects of Ayushya Suktam
Purpose: The primary aim of Ayushya Sukta is to pray for a
long and healthy life.
Alternative Name: It is also known as Ghrtasukta because
ghrta (clarified butter or ghee) is used as an oblation with each mantra.
Origin: While the mantras are of Vedic origin, their exact
source has not been definitively traced.
Structure: The Sukta consists of nine mantras. Each mantra
is accompanied by the word ‘svaha’ at the end during the offering of ghee.
Summary of the Hymn
The Ayushya Sukta invokes various deities, seeking their
blessings for a long life. Below is a brief summary of each mantra within the
hymn:
Invocation to Shiva:
- Description: Shiva, depicted as the supreme Brahman, is wearing elephant skin and wielding the bow Pinaka. He is also known as Ishana, the ruler who nipped off a head of Brahma, the creator.
- Prayer: For long life through the offering of ghee.
Invocation to the Sun:
- Description: The Sun, shining brilliantly with hot rays, rises from the middle of the ocean.
- Prayer: To destroy the bonds of death and accept the offering to increase life duration.
Invocation to Brahman as Light:
- Description: Brahman, the Light, deposited the watery embryo in the womb of the five elements, shining brilliantly and adorably.
- Prayer: To grow this light through oblations of ghee to extend life.
Invocation to Lakshmi:
- Description: Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and vitality, also known as Mother Earth, Sasthi, and Indrasena, reminds us of Brahman.
- Prayer: To satiate her with oblations of ghee for a longer life.
Invocation to the Goddesses:
- Description: Daughters of Daksha-prajapati, responsible for the entire creation, pervading the world with their husbands and offspring.
- Prayer: For their acceptance of the ghee oblations to increase life-span.
Invocation to Ancient Divine Beings:
- Description: These divine beings are capable of ending lives but are also protectors.
- Prayer: To offer ghee oblations so they protect us and our offspring from harm.
Invocation to the Creator:
- Description: The primordial cause of the world’s creation, from whom the protector Indra emerged, and to whom the world returns at dissolution.
- Prayer: To accept the ghee offerings for a longer life-span.
Invocation to Various Deities:
- Description: Deities such as Vasus, Rudras, Adityas, Maruts, Sadhyas, Rbhus, Yakṣas, Gandharvas, Pitrs, Vishvedevas, Bhrgus, Sarpas, and Angirasas.
- Prayer: To offer ghee oblations to all these deities for longevity and eternal happiness.
Invocation to Vishnu:
- Description: Vishnu, the ultimate abode, who forgives all misdeeds.
- Prayer: For happiness and long life through a continuous series of sweet oblations.
Ayushya Sukta is a profound hymn in Hinduism, rich in spiritual significance. Through its recitation and the associated ritual of offering ghee into the sacred fire, devotees seek the blessings of various deities for a prolonged and prosperous life. This practice underscores the deep connection between Vedic rituals and the pursuit of health and longevity in Hindu tradition.