Benefits and Importance of Saphala Ekadasi
The significance of Safala Ekadashi was explained to Yudhishtira by Lord Krishna. It is mentioned in the Brahmanda Purana.Fasting on Saphala Ekadashi is believed to help in cleansing the sins committed and it also opens the door of fame in earthly life.
A person can enjoy all pleasures on earth and then finally attain Vishnu Loka.
Observing the vrat is equal to performing Tapas (austerities for 5000 years)
Story of Saphala Ekadasi
Legend has it that Lumbaka, one of the four sons of a famous king, was always questioning the authority of Lord Vishnu. Due to this attitude, he was exiled. Lumbaka continued with his behavior and started plundering the wealth of poor villagers and made his home under a banyan tree. He started eating killing animals and ate the raw meat.
Once on Saphala Ekadashi day he fell very ill and as a result, he kept a fast the whole day and stayed awake during the night and thus unknowingly he undertook the Safala Ekadasi Vrat. Next morning he felt good and realized that all this was due to the blessing of Lord Vishnu. He realized his mistake and returned to his father and lived a happy life.
All the normal rules associated with Ekadasi are observed during Safala Ekadasi.
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