The practice of offering water to the sun, known as Surya Namaskar or Surya Arghya, is an ancient tradition in Hinduism that holds great spiritual significance. This practice involves offering water to the sun during sunrise or sunset, as a symbol of gratitude and reverence to the sun, which is considered to be one of the most powerful celestial bodies in Hinduism.
The sun is revered in Hinduism as the source of all life on earth and is considered to be the embodiment of divine energy and power. The practice of offering water to the sun is believed to be a way of purifying oneself and seeking blessings from the sun god, Surya.
In Hindu mythology, it is said that Lord Rama, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism, offered water to the sun as a form of penance and to seek blessings during his exile in the forest. It is believed that by offering water to the sun, one can purify oneself, overcome obstacles, and attain success in all aspects of life.
The process of offering water to the sun is simple and can be performed by anyone. It involves filling a copper vessel with water, adding some grains of rice, and then facing the sun while offering the water. The water is then poured onto the ground as an offering to the sun, with a prayer or mantra recited in honor of the sun god.
How to offer water to Sun?
Take a bath before offering water to the sun
Put red flowers or kumkum and rice in the water in a copper vessel
While offering Arghya to the Sun, you are not supposed to look at the Sun directly. Instead, you have to view the Sun rays through the stream of water offered.
Water should be offered to the Sun only by facing east
One thing to take care of is that the water should not reach your feet
Shoes and slippers should not be worn while offering water. Offer water to the sun barefoot.
While offering Arghya, you can recite the Surya Gayathri mantra: "Om Aadityay Vidhmahe Martanday Dheemahi Tanah: Surya: Prachodyat" or You can also repeat "Om Suryaya Namaha" or "Om Ghrinim Surya Adityamu" 11 times
After the completion of Arghya, it will be beneficial to chant, "Aravadityo Brahma, Brahmaive Ahamasmi." It is a mantra that shows that the Sun is Brahman, and the Brahman is within ourselves.
Try to do it empty stomach
Arghya's regular practice to the Sun can bring forth happiness, peace, and energy.
Apart from its spiritual significance, the practice of offering water to the sun also has several health benefits. The sun is a natural source of Vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. The practice of Surya Namaskar is believed to improve digestion, boost immunity, and promote overall physical and mental well-being.
The practice of offering water to the sun is an important tradition in Hinduism that holds great spiritual significance. By offering water to the sun, one can seek blessings, purify oneself, and overcome obstacles in life. The practice is also believed to have several health benefits, making it an important aspect of both spiritual and physical well-being in Hindu culture.