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How to Keep Amavasya Fast in Hinduism

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How to Keep Amavasya Fast in Hinduism: A Comprehensive Guide

Amavasya (new moon day) holds significant spiritual and cultural importance in Hinduism. Observing a fast on this day is believed to bring mental clarity, spiritual progress, and relief from ancestral karmas. Below is an expanded guide with methods, prayers, daily routines, practical tips, and details about the deities Shiva, Kali, and Lakshmi, often worshipped during this time.

Understanding the Significance of Amavasya

  1. Spiritual Importance:
    • The dark moon phase symbolizes introspection, meditation, and the purification of the mind.
    • It is also believed to be a powerful day for performing rituals to appease ancestors (Pitru Tarpana).
  2. Astrological Influence:
    • The moon governs emotions and mind; its absence prompts inward reflection and emotional detox.

Daily Routine for Amavasya Fasting

  1. Pre-Dawn Preparation:

    • Wake up early (Brahma Muhurta, before sunrise).
    • Take a holy bath, preferably with a few drops of Ganga water or herbs like neem for purification.

  2. Sankalpa (Intention):

    • Sit in a quiet place and resolve to observe the fast for spiritual growth and blessings.
    • Mentally offer the fast to a chosen deity or for ancestral relief.

  3. Fasting Practices:

    • Strict fast: No food or water (Nirjala Vrat).
    • Partial fast: Fruits, milk, and water (Phalahar).
    • Choose as per your capacity, but avoid tamasic foods (meat, onion, garlic).

  4. Chanting and Meditation:

    • Dedicate time to meditate and chant mantras, focusing on your intentions.
    • Spend the day in self-reflection, reading scriptures, or listening to devotional music.

  5. Charity and Service:

    • Donate food, clothes, or money to the needy.
    • Offer sesame seeds, rice, and water to ancestors during Pitru Tarpana.

Mantras and Prayers

  1. Shiva:

    • Mantra: Om Namah Shivaya.
    • Offerings: Bilva leaves, water, milk, and dhatura flowers to a Shiva Linga.
    • Meditation: Visualize Lord Shiva as the cosmic energy guiding your transformation.

  2. Kali:

    • Mantra: Om Kreem Kalikaye Namah.
    • Offerings: Red hibiscus flowers, rice, and sweets.
    • Focus on invoking her energy to remove obstacles and fears.

  3. Lakshmi:

    • Mantra: Om Shreem Mahalakshmiye Namah.
    • Offerings: Lotus flowers, ghee lamp, and kheer (rice pudding).
    • Seek her blessings for prosperity and abundance.

  4. Pitru Tarpana:

    • Recite Pitru Stotra or chant Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya while offering sesame seeds and water.

Lesser-Known Facts

  1. Ancestral Connection:

    • Amavasya is ideal for appeasing ancestors. Perform rituals to express gratitude and seek blessings.

  2. Amavasya Remedies:

    • Lighting mustard oil lamps in the evening removes negativity.
    • Placing black sesame seeds in water and pouring it under a Peepal tree is auspicious.

  3. Astrological Remedies:

    • Strengthen your moon by donating milk, rice, or white clothes.
    • Recite the Chandra Gayatri Mantra for mental peace.

Practical Suggestions for Discipline

  1. Preparation:

    • Plan the day in advance. Avoid heavy activities or commitments.
    • Stock up on fasting-friendly foods like fruits, nuts, and dairy products.

  2. Mindful Practices:

    • Avoid negative thoughts or arguments.
    • Engage in uplifting conversations and spiritual activities.

  3. Breaking the Fast:

    • End with simple sattvic food like khichdi (rice and lentils) or fruits.
    • Offer gratitude for the spiritual benefits received.

Mantras for Peace and Fulfillment

  1. Mahamrityunjaya Mantra (Shiva):

    • Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam, Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat.

  2. Durga Mantra (Kali):

    • Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Shakti Rupena Samsthita, Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah.

  3. Lakshmi Gayatri Mantra:

    • Om Mahalakshmyai Cha Vidmahe Vishnu Patnyai Cha Dheemahi, Tanno Lakshmihi Prachodayat.

Observing an Amavasya fast is a deeply transformative practice. Tailor it according to your spiritual goals and physical capacity. The act of discipline, devotion, and introspection on this sacred day brings harmony, clarity, and divine blessings.