In Hinduism, praying for a dying person is deeply rooted in the idea of offering peace, liberation (moksha), and comfort to the soul. Traditionally, family and loved ones try to provide both spiritual support and physical comfort through prayer, puja, mantras, and offerings to specific deities associated with death, protection, peace, and liberation. Here's a detailed guide to prayers, rituals, deities, mantras, and steps for modern practices.
1. General Prayers and Ritual Approach
Prayers for a dying person are often focused on easing their transition from this life, offering blessings of peace, and asking for divine forgiveness. They are usually simple, heart-felt, and meant to invoke positive vibrations.
Simple Prayer Example:
"Om Namah Shivaya" is a universal and calming mantra for anyone nearing death. It invokes Lord Shiva, known as the deity of death and transformation.
A heartfelt prayer can be said:
"Dear [Deity], please bring peace, comfort, and liberation to the soul of [Name]. May their journey be blessed with divine light, forgiveness, and grace."
2. Mantras and Chants for Specific Deities
Each deity worshipped in Hinduism has a unique role, and different mantras can be used depending on the specific intent of the prayer.
Ganesha (Remover of Obstacles)
Ganesha is often worshipped first in any Hindu ritual, as he clears obstacles.
- Mantra: "Om Gan Ganapataye Namah" – Helps to remove obstacles in the soul’s journey toward liberation.
Yama (God of Death)
Yama governs the afterlife and the moral balance of a person’s soul.
- Mantra: "Om Yamaya Namah" – To invoke peace and support for the soul as it transitions to the afterlife.
Shiva (God of Destruction and Liberation)
Shiva is revered as the liberator, and His worship is believed to guide the soul towards moksha (liberation).
- Mantra: "Om Namah Shivaya" – Brings inner peace and can help with the journey beyond this life.
Goddess Kali (Liberator and Transformer)
Kali is considered a fierce protector of devotees, especially at times of death and transformation.
- Mantra: "Om Krim Kalikaye Namah" – Offers liberation and protection to the soul.
Bhairava (Protector of the Afterlife Path)
Bhairava is a form of Shiva often associated with fearlessness and protection in the afterlife.
- Mantra: "Om Kaal Bhairavaya Namah" – Protects the soul during the transition to the next life.
3. Simple Puja Steps
- Cleanse the Space: Light a diya (oil lamp) and burn incense to purify the atmosphere.
- Invoke the Deities: Set up small images or symbols of deities like Shiva, Yama, or Kali. Place flowers and offer fruits if possible.
- Offer Water: Pour a small amount of water in front of the images, symbolizing peace and purity.
- Light the Diya and Incense: As a symbolic representation of the divine light guiding the soul.
- Recite the Mantras: Chant mantras softly to create a peaceful environment for the person. This can be done in short sessions.
4. Clothes and Colors
Hindus traditionally believe that certain colors and clothing can influence the energy around a dying person.
- For the dying individual: White clothes are often preferred, symbolizing peace, purity, and freedom from worldly attachments.
- For family members: White or light pastel colors can be worn by those close to the individual, showing respect and calmness during this sacred time.
5. Ideal Gods and Goddesses to Worship
For someone nearing the end of life, Hinduism suggests focusing on deities associated with peace, liberation, and protection:
- Lord Shiva: Considered the ultimate liberator.
- Goddess Kali: Known for her protective and transformative powers.
- Yama: As the god of death, he represents order and justice in the transition to the afterlife.
- Hanuman: For courage and strength to face the transition.
- Surya (Sun God) and Chandra (Moon God): Represent eternal continuity and illumination of the soul’s journey.
6. Rare Facts and Traditional Beliefs
Moksha Dham: In Hindu tradition, certain cities like Varanasi are considered places that bring immediate moksha or liberation upon death.
Chanting the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra: This mantra is often recited to ease pain and suffering, aiming to provide peace to the soul:
"Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam
Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat"
It calls on Lord Shiva to liberate the soul from the cycle of life and death.Tulsi Leaves and Ganges Water: In traditional Hindu rituals, Tulsi (holy basil) leaves or a few drops of Ganges water are sometimes placed on the person’s lips as a final act of sanctity.
7. Practical Steps for Modern Times
- Play Soft Chanting or Bhajans: Recordings of calming chants, bhajans, or mantras can be played near the person to create a peaceful atmosphere.
- Create a Peaceful Environment: Ensure the space is quiet, clean, and filled with fresh air. This can be achieved even in hospitals by softly chanting or using mobile apps for mantras.
- Include Loved Ones: Encourage family members to sit around and offer their love and blessings, holding hands or simply being present.
8. Summary of Key Points and Prayers
- Mantras: Focus on the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, "Om Namah Shivaya," and deity-specific mantras.
- Simple Puja Steps: Light a diya, incense, and chant softly.
- Clothes: Wear white or light colors, symbolizing peace and purity.
- Deities: Worship Shiva, Kali, Yama, and Hanuman for protection, peace, and liberation.
- Practical Modern Tips: Create a peaceful, distraction-free environment, using digital aids if needed, to play mantras.
Performing these practices, mantras, and pujas can be a comforting way to support the individual’s final journey. In the end, a peaceful heart and an open presence of loved ones are perhaps the greatest support that can be offered to the departing soul.