In Hinduism and related traditions, maintaining harmony with nature while addressing household concerns is common. The practice of keeping lizards away from home can involve a combination of spiritual, practical, and philosophical approaches, imbued with reverence for life and the divine.
Philosophical Context
Hindu philosophy emphasizes living in harmony with all beings. Lizards, while often unwanted indoors, are not inherently evil or harmful and have a role in the ecosystem. Approaching the task with ahimsa (non-violence) and respect reflects dharmic principles. The use of spiritual methods to keep lizards away also incorporates a belief in the sanctity of life.
Daily Routine and Practical Methods
- Cleanliness: Keeping the home clean and uncluttered discourages lizards by eliminating hiding places. Regular sweeping, mopping, and dusting, especially in corners and under furniture, is essential.
- Natural Repellents: Use of natural substances like eggshells, garlic, onions, or camphor can deter lizards. The smell of these items often drives them away.
- Peacock Feathers: Peacock feathers are symbolic of Lord Muruga and are considered auspicious. Placing them in doorways and corners is believed to keep lizards away.
- Lighting and Ventilation: Lizards are drawn to insects, which are attracted to bright light. Use minimal lighting in areas prone to lizards, and ensure proper ventilation to prevent insect accumulation.
Mantras and Prayers
Mantras invoke divine energy to sanctify the home and create an environment that discourages unwanted creatures.
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Lord Muruga's Mantras:
- "Om Saravanabhavaya Namah"
Chant this mantra daily to invoke Lord Muruga’s blessings and purify the home. - Skanda Sashti Kavacham: Reciting this hymn offers protection and enhances the spiritual vibrations of the home.
- "Om Saravanabhavaya Namah"
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Pashupati Shiva's Mantra:
- "Om Namah Shivaya"
Regular chanting creates a protective shield and fosters a serene atmosphere, naturally discouraging pests.
- "Om Namah Shivaya"
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Hanuman Chalisa: Reciting the Hanuman Chalisa, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, invokes Hanuman’s divine energy, which can protect the home from negativity and disturbances.
Scriptural Insights
Reading scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, or Shiva Purana can guide the household toward spiritual discipline and harmony. These texts emphasize purity of space and mind, which indirectly impacts the physical environment.
Lesser-Known Practices
- Kolam/Rangoli: Drawing kolams (auspicious patterns) at the entrance using rice flour is both a spiritual offering and a practical way to attract ants (natural predators of lizards) outdoors.
- Turmeric Water: Sprinkling turmeric water during puja rituals cleanses and sanctifies the home, creating an environment unattractive to pests.
- Tulsi Plant: Keeping a Tulsi plant (holy basil) in the house purifies the air and acts as a natural repellent.
Discipline and Daily Spiritual Practice
- Start each day with Surya Namaskar (sun salutation) and prayers to invoke divine blessings.
- Maintain a strict routine of offering incense, diya (lamp), and camphor during morning and evening pujas.
- Use Vedic chants and bells during prayer to cleanse the home energetically.
Prayers and Offerings
Offer fruits and milk to deities, especially Lord Muruga and Lord Shiva, and dedicate them with heartfelt devotion. Performing abhishekam (ritual bathing) to their idols with water, milk, and honey fosters divine energy.
Addressing the presence of lizards at home in Hinduism is a combination of respecting nature and aligning the household environment with divine vibrations. By combining practical methods with spiritual discipline, one creates a home that is both clean and energetically harmonious.