Why August 24 Could Be the Most Powerful Sawan Monday
On August 24, a number of religious days fall together which will make it an immensely spiritual day for all devotees of Lord Shiva. This particular Monday marks the fourth and last Sawan Somvar Vrat and also includes the parana of Shravan Putrada Ekadashi and Som Pradosh Vrat. Moreover, it is the commencement of the second stage of Chaturmas as per this calendar.
For devotees, it provides an excellent chance to worship Lord Shiva.
Which Nakshatra falls?
There are two nakshatras that would affect the day. Purva Ashadha Nakshatra will prevail until 9:58 AM, and thereafter Uttara Ashadha Nakshatra will take over for the remaining part of the day.
However, there may be some slight variations in timings depending upon the location and local Panchang used. It is thus advisable for those undertaking any rituals to check the exact timings prior to commencing the puja.
What Makes This Monday Unique?
The most important aspect of August 24 is that of the multiple occasions being celebrated.
First of all, it is the fourth and last Sawan Somvar which concludes the Mondays of the Shravan month.
Secondly, those devotees who have kept the Shravan Putrada Ekadashi fast yesterday will now take the parana or the breaking of the fast on the basis of the regional Panchang.
Thirdly, because today is Trayodashi on a Monday, hence, it is Som Pradosh, a very auspicious day especially for the Shiva devotees. The worship of Pradosh happens during the twilight period which includes prayers and seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Good Times to Worship Shiva
Based on the given timings for this festival, Brahma Muhurta falls between 5:26 AM to 6:10 AM. This is therefore an ideal time for awakening, taking bath and then praying.
Abhijit Muhurta will be between 12:58 PM to 1:50 PM.
Som Pradosh Puja timings can be based on Pradosh timing that occurs in the evening hours after sunset. The approximate time of sunset is 7:53 PM.
As per the given timing, Rahu Kaal will be from 8:32 AM to 10:09 AM. This is an undesirable time for starting any auspicious task for people following Panchang tradition.
Shiva Abhishek Vidhi in simplicity
First take a bath and wear fresh clothes. Then sit in front of Shiva Lingam or the picture of Lord Shiva and make a sankalp for your prayers.
Initiate with Jal Abhishek while reciting the mantra Om Namah Shivaya. Then devotees can offer milk and also Panchamrit made with milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar as per their tradition.
Offering bilva leaves after abhishek and also flowers is the next step. One must chant the mantra Om Namah Shivaya or Mahamrityunjaya Mantra with full devotion.
End the ritual with offering incense, diya, prayer, and aarti. As the day is also Som Pradosh, one can pray to Lord Shiva again during Pradosh time in the evening.
A Day of Prayer and Reflection
It is not about doing more rituals when it comes to the significance of August 24. To many followers, Sawan is a period where they will observe self-discipline and draw closer to God Shiva.
Devotees observing Ekadashi are advised to follow the local Panchang in order to get the exact time for parana.
In all, the spiritual significance of this day can be found in one’s faith, devotion and discipline. With the right rituals like abhishek or just reciting the prayer Om Namah Shivaya, the devotee can make use of this auspicious day to attain peace of mind and enter into the next phase of life.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How would the devotees be able to pray Lord Shiva?
The devotees can do Jal Abhishek, Bilva Patra offering, Om Namah Shivaya Japa, lighting diya and doing aarti with devotion.
Is there a need for checking parana time among Ekadashi devotees?
Yes. The devotees who have fasted on Shravan Putrada Ekadashi need to check their local Panchang for their parana time, as it might vary according to the place.
Is August 24th the last Sawan Somvar?
As per the particular calendar, August 24 is the last Sawan Somvar.
What are the practices of Som Pradosh?
Devotees can offer prayers to Lord Shiva on the day of Pradosh, offer simple abhishek and chant Shiva mantras with devotion.