In Hinduism, 3 PM is not a traditionally specific time for prayer, but it can still be a meaningful moment to pause and connect with the Divine. This time can be seen as part of the late afternoon, which is often a time of transition—perfect for recharging spiritual energy. It can also align with the concept of "Sandhya" (twilight or junction), a sacred time for introspection and prayers.
Here’s a guide on how to observe a simple prayer session or puja at 3 PM, incorporating the worship of various deities like Vaishno Devi, Krishna, Hanuman, Shiva (Mritunjaya), Goddess Tripura Sundari, Jagannath, and Amba.
Simple Prayers for 3 PM Worship
Here are a few simple prayers for various deities:
Goddess Vaishno Devi:
- Prayer:
"Sarva Mangala Maangalye, Shive Sarvaartha Saadhike
Sharanye Tryambake Gauri, Naaraayani Namostute"
(O the one who brings auspiciousness, O Shive, the fulfiller of all desires, O Tryambake, we bow down to you, O Gauri, we surrender to you.)
- Prayer:
"Sarva Mangala Maangalye, Shive Sarvaartha Saadhike
Lord Krishna:
- Prayer:
"Krishnaaya Vaasudevaaya Haraye Paramatmane
Pranata Klesha Naashaaya Govindaaya Namo Namah"
(Salutations to Krishna, Vasudeva, the Supreme Soul, the remover of all sufferings. I bow to Govinda again and again.)
- Prayer:
Hanuman:
- Prayer:
"Buddhir Balam Yasho Dhairyam Nirbhayatvam Arogataa
Ajaadyam Vaak Patutvam Cha Hanumat Smaranaat Bhavet"
(By remembering Hanuman, one attains intellect, strength, fame, courage, fearlessness, health, and eloquence.)
- Prayer:
Mritunjaya Shiva:
- Prayer:
"Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam
Urvaarukamiva Bandhanaan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat"
(We worship the three-eyed Lord Shiva, who nourishes and grows all beings. May He liberate us from the bondage of worldly attachments and lead us to immortality.)
- Prayer:
Jagannath:
- Prayer:
"Nilaachala Nivaasaaya Nityaya Paramatmane
Balabhadra Subhadraabhyam Jagannaathaaya Te Namah"
(Salutations to Lord Jagannath, who resides in Nilaachala, and who is accompanied by Balabhadra and Subhadra.)
- Prayer:
Goddess Tripura Sundari:
- Prayer:
"Om Aim Hreem Shreem Tripura Sundariyai Namah"
(Salutations to Goddess Tripura Sundari, who is the essence of beauty, power, and abundance.)
- Prayer:
Simple Puja Steps at 3 PM
Preparation:
- Clean the area where you plan to pray. You can sit on a clean cloth or mat facing east or north.
- Light a diya (lamp) with ghee or oil and incense sticks to purify the space.
Clothing and Color of Clothes:
- Ideal colors: Yellow, white, orange, or red (auspicious and energetic colors).
- Clean, simple, and fresh clothes are recommended. Cotton or natural fibers are ideal for comfort and purity.
Offerings (Upachara):
- Flowers: Red or yellow flowers (rose, marigold) are ideal for Goddess Vaishno Devi and Tripura Sundari. Tulsi (basil) leaves are sacred for Krishna.
- Water: Offer water in a copper vessel to the deity.
- Prasad: Fresh fruits, sweets, or even a small amount of jaggery or honey can be offered.
Invoke the Deity:
- Chant the above mantras for the specific deity you are praying to.
- Focus on your intentions, expressing gratitude, or seeking blessings.
Meditation/Contemplation:
- After offering your prayers, take a few minutes for silent meditation, focusing on the sound of "Om" or simply observing your breath.
Arati:
- Perform a small arati (waving of the lamp) in a circular motion in front of the deity's image or idol.
Ideal Gods or Goddess to Worship at 3 PM
- Goddess Vaishno Devi: For courage, protection, and overcoming obstacles.
- Lord Krishna: For devotion, peace of mind, and removing negative energies.
- Hanuman: For strength, protection, and wisdom.
- Shiva (Mritunjaya): For good health, long life, and spiritual liberation.
- Goddess Tripura Sundari: For beauty, inner strength, and success.
- Jagannath: For guidance, compassion, and support during transitions.
Relevant Facts and Rare Insights
- 3 PM can be a spiritually powerful time because it's the afternoon phase when energy levels start to dip. By connecting with the Divine, you refresh your mind and spirit, combating lethargy and increasing focus.
- Afternoon Sandhya (late afternoon prayers) is part of the tradition of worshipping at different junctions of the day—morning, afternoon, and evening.
- Hanuman and Vaishno Devi are often invoked for protection and removing obstacles, especially during the late afternoon when one may feel drained.
- Tripura Sundari, the goddess of beauty and wisdom, can be worshipped to invoke balance and harmony in life during this time of day.
Practical Steps for Modern Times
- Short Mantra Recitation: If you have a busy schedule, simply recite a short mantra, such as "Om Namo Narayanaya" or "Om Aim Hreem Shreem," while taking a break.
- Mobile Applications: Use apps or playlists of mantra chants if you’re commuting or at work. This way, you can stay connected to your practice.
- Gratitude Practice: Along with prayers, take a moment to mentally list what you’re grateful for, as this can help you stay positive and aligned with your spiritual goals.
In conclusion, 3 PM can be transformed into a sacred time for prayer and spiritual rejuvenation, with the help of simple mantras, prayers, and a few mindful practices. Keep it simple, and let it be a time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with the Divine in your own personal way.