The story of Sage Madha and the prohibition of eating rice on Ekadashi is a fascinating legend deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and religious beliefs.
According to the legend, Sage Medha was a devout follower of
Lord Vishnu. He was known for his deep penance and devotion. However, Sage
Medha had a disagreement with Mother Shakti, the divine feminine energy and
consort of Lord Shiva. Out of anger, Mother Shakti cursed Sage Medha to lose his
physical form.
Realizing the gravity of the curse and understanding that he
could not escape it, Sage Medha willingly accepted his fate. He decided to
sacrifice his physical body, allowing his essence to merge with the earth. It
is said that his sacrifice was not out of defeat but rather a demonstration of
his supreme devotion and surrender to the divine will.
As a result of Sage Medha's sacrifice, his essence
transformed into rice and barley, which are considered sacred grains in Hindu
culture. The grains symbolize the divine energy and purity of Sage Medha's
sacrifice.
The day on which Sage Medha's essence merged with the earth
is believed to be an Ekadashi, the eleventh day of the lunar fortnight. Since
then, it is believed that consuming rice on Ekadashi is forbidden as it is
considered akin to consuming the flesh and blood of Sage Medha, which is
considered highly disrespectful and impure.
Therefore, observing the tradition of abstaining from rice
on Ekadashi is not only a mark of respect for Sage Medha's sacrifice but also a
way to purify oneself spiritually and adhere to the principles of devotion and
righteousness.
This story serves as a reminder of the power of devotion and
sacrifice in Hindu mythology, as well as the importance of observing religious
traditions and rituals to honor the divine.