Friday, March 3, 2023

Agnihotra : An Ancient Healing Ritual for Modern Times

 

Agnihotra is an ancient practice that is still widely practiced today in many parts of the world. It is a ritualistic practice that involves burning specific materials at precise times of the day to create a healing and purifying atmosphere.

The practice of Agnihotra has its roots in ancient Vedic traditions, and its origins can be traced back thousands of years. The Vedas describe Agnihotra as a daily ritual that was performed by sages and seers to purify the atmosphere, promote good health, and ensure prosperity.


Agnihotra is performed at sunrise and sunset, which are considered the most auspicious times of the day. The ritual involves burning Cow dung, Ghee, Camphor, Wood of Certain trees, and Rice in a copper pyramid-shaped vessel called an "Agnihotra kund." The materials used in the ritual are said to have specific healing properties and are carefully selected to create a healing and purifying atmosphereThese following mantras are chanted during Agnihotra,
*During Sunrise:
सूर्याय स्वाहा सूर्याय इदम्  मम |
प्रजापतये स्वाहा प्रजापतये इदम्  मम ||
Meaning:
*Sooryaya Swaha
Suryaya Idam Na Mama
The root Soo in Sanskrit describes an aspect of Almighty Power. Soorya means Sun. It does not describe the Sun of our solar system but instead refers to the Sun of all creation. Sun is the light which gives life. The word Swaha is the one of two words which belong to no language. The other is OM. Swaha offering. It is a vibrational word that when uttered by the human being activates the energy in the kundalini. Idam Na mama translates literally to mean “this not mine”. This refers to the passage in the Bible and other holy scriptures which means “Not my will but Thy will be done”.
*Prajapataye Swaha
Prajapataye Idam Na Mama
The word Prajapati means The Creator. It also is an aspect of Almighty Power which refers to the creative aspect of the Divine. The other words in the mantra refer to the same as above.

*During Sunset:
अग्नये स्वाहा अग्नये इदम्  मम |
प्रजापतये स्वाहा प्रजापतये इदम्  मम ||
Meaning:
Agnaye Swaha
Agnaye Idam Na Mama
The word Agni means fire. In this mantra it is also referring to an aspect of Almighty Power. It is that aspect of Almighty Power which transforms. The rest of the mantra is the same as given in the paragraph defining Soorya. Repeat the second mantra as in sunrise.
Prajapataye Swaha
Prajapataye Idam Na Mama
The word Prajapati means The Creator. It also is an aspect of Almighty Power which refers to the creative aspect of the Divine. The other words in the mantra refer to the same as above.



When Agnihotra is performed, it releases a large number of negative ions into the atmosphere. Negative ions are known to improve air quality by neutralizing pollutants, reducing allergens and irritants, and promoting overall well-being. The smoke from the burning materials used in Agnihotra has been found to purify the environment. It is known to destroy harmful bacteria and fungi, reduce air pollution, and increase the level of oxygen in the atmosphere.


The practice of Agnihotra has been found to boost the immune system. The negative ions released during practice are known to stimulate the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in regulating the immune system. The practice has a calming effect on the mind and body. The negative ions released during practice have been found to reduce stress and anxiety levels, improve mental clarity, and promote relaxation.

The practice of Agnihotra is believed to enhance spiritual awareness and promote inner peace. It is said to create a harmonious atmosphere that is conducive to meditation and other spiritual practices.


In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the practice of Agnihotra. People all over the world are recognizing the benefits of this ancient practice and are incorporating it into their daily lives. The practice is particularly popular among those who are interested in alternative healing modalities and those who are looking for ways to improve their overall well-being. 

Agnihotra Goes to Harvard! (31stMarch 2016)

In conclusion, Agnihotra is an ancient practice that has stood the test of time. Its numerous benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being make it a valuable practice in today's world. As more and more people discover the benefits of Agnihotra, this ancient practice will likely continue to gain popularity and play an important role in promoting health and well-being.












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