In caves and sheltering sandhills and sacred banyan roots;
O lift your dreaming heads from their trance of ageless wisdom
And weave your mystic measures to the melody of flutes.
(O Snakes or Nagas) Guard our helpless lives and guide our patient labors,And cherish our dear vision like the jewels in your crests;
O spread your hooded watch for the safety of our slumbers
And soothe the troubled longing that clamor in our breast.
Subtle as the lightning and splendid as the sun.
Seers are ye and symbols of the ancient silence,
Where life and death and sorrow and ecstasy are one.
"On the auspicious occasion of Nag Panchami, may the
blessings of Nag Devta bring prosperity, happiness, and peace into your life.
Happy Nag Panchami!"
"Let us invoke the divine blessings of Lord Shiva and
seek protection from all evils on the occasion of Nag Panchami. Wishing you a
blessed and joyful Nag Panchami!"
"May the snake god bless you with wisdom, prosperity,
and abundance on the sacred occasion of Nag Panchami. Happy Nag Panchami!"
"On Nag Panchami, may the divine serpents bestow their
blessings upon you and your loved ones, protecting you from all harm and
leading you towards success and prosperity."
"As we celebrate Nag Panchami, let us remember the
significance of snakes in Hindu mythology and strive to cultivate respect and
harmony with nature. Happy Nag Panchami!"
Some important information on Nag (snake) and Nag Panchami Worship
Symbol of Power: Snakes, particularly the cobra, are seen as
symbols of power, fertility, and renewal in Hinduism. Their ability to shed
their skin represents the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, a central theme
in Hindu philosophy.
Representation of Divinity: Snakes are associated with
several Hindu deities, notably Lord Shiva, who is often depicted with a cobra
around his neck or coiled around his body. This association signifies the
control over the destructive forces of nature.
Protection: Worshipping snakes is believed to provide
protection from snake bites and other dangers associated with these reptiles.
Devotees seek blessings from the serpent deities for safety and security.
Agricultural Importance: In agrarian societies, snakes were
revered for their role in controlling rodent populations that could damage
crops. Snake worship emerged as a means to appease these creatures and seek
their assistance in protecting agricultural fields.
Fertility and Prosperity: Snakes are linked with fertility
and prosperity in Hinduism. The presence of snakes in rituals and ceremonies is
believed to ensure the continuity and abundance of life, crops, and offspring.
Mythological Significance: Hindu mythology is replete with
stories involving snakes, such as the serpent Vasuki, used as a rope in the
churning of the ocean to obtain the elixir of immortality (amrita). These myths
contribute to the reverence accorded to snakes.
Cultural Traditions: Snake worship is deeply ingrained in
various regional and folk traditions across India. Many communities organize
annual festivals dedicated to serpent deities, where elaborate rituals and
processions take place.
Tantric Practices: In Tantra, snakes symbolize the Kundalini
energy, a powerful force believed to reside at the base of the spine. Snake
worship is often part of Tantric rituals aimed at awakening this dormant energy
and achieving spiritual enlightenment.
Healing and Medicine: Some sects within Hinduism believe in
the medicinal properties of snake venom and advocate for its controlled use in
traditional medicine. Snake worship may involve rituals aimed at invoking the
healing powers of snakes.
Environmental Conservation: The veneration of snakes
encourages the protection of their habitats and conservation efforts aimed at
preserving these creatures. By considering them sacred, people are more
inclined to coexist peacefully with snakes and their natural habitats.