All about asthi visarjan
One of the most traumatic things anyone can go through is losing a loved one.. In Hindu culture, one of the ways to honour the deceased is through Asthi Visarjan, a sacred ritual that involves immersing the deceased’s ashes in a holy body of water. However, as with any religious practice, specific Asthi Visarjan rules and guidelines must be followed. This comprehensive guide will give you everything you need to know about navigating Asthi Visarjan rules and performing this meaningful ritual.
Understanding Asthi Visarjan and its Significance
Asthi Visarjan is a Hindu ritual in which the ashes of a loved one who has passed away are immersed in a sacred body of water, such as a river, ocean, or lake. While “visarjan” signifies immersion, “asthi” alludes to bones. Hindus believe that doing Asthi Visarjan aids the deceased’s soul in achieving Moksha, or freedom from the cycle of life and death.
The body is considered transient, and the spirit is said to be immortal in Hinduism. Asthi Visarjan is a ritual representing the soul’s separation from the body and its subsequent liberation to continue its journey. It also serves as a means of letting go of the bodily remains of a loved one and coming to terms with their passing for those still alive.
Asthi Visarjan Rules and Regulations
There are several Asthi Visarjan rules and regulations that have got to be followed to perform the ritual correctly. The primary and most vital rule is collecting and storing the ashes properly. The ashes must be collected in a clean, dry container and stored safely until the ritual.
Another important rule is to perform the ritual at an appropriate location. The situation must be a holy body of water; therefore, the ritual shouldn’t be performed in a public place or area where it could cause pollution. It’s also important to perform the ritual during an auspicious time and day, which we’ll discuss in the next section.
Other Asthi Visarjan rules include:
Performing the ritual with utmost respect and devotion.
Dressing appropriately.
Avoiding any actions that could be considered disrespectful or inappropriate.
Best Time for Asthi Visarjan
As mentioned earlier, performing Asthi Visarjan during an auspicious time and day is important. According to Hindu astrology, certain best time for asthi visarjan and times are considered auspicious for performing the ritual. The best time for Asthi Visarjan is during the Pitru Paksha period, a 16-day period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to honouring ancestors.
However, if performing the ritual during the Pitru Paksha period is impossible, some other auspicious days and times can be considered. These include the waxing phase of the moon, certain days of the week, and specific times of the day. It is important to consult with a Hindu priest or astrologer to determine the most auspicious time for Asthi Visarjan.
How to Prepare for Asthi Visarjan
Preparing for Asthi Visarjan involves several steps. The first step is to collect the ashes of your loved one and store them in a clean and dry container. It is important to ensure the ashes are not mixed with other substances, such as bone fragments or metal objects.
The next step is to choose a location for the ritual. This should be a holy body of water that is clean and free from pollution. It is also important to ensure that the location is easily accessible and safe for you and your family.
Other preparations may include dressing appropriately for the ritual, gathering any necessary materials, such as flowers or incense, and making arrangements for transportation to the location. It is also important to consult with a Hindu priest or astrologer to determine the ritual’s most auspicious time and day.
Procedure for Asthi Visarjan
The procedure for Asthi Visarjan varies depending on personal beliefs and preferences. However, certain steps are common to most rituals. The first step is to purify yourself and your surroundings by bathing or showering and lighting incense or candles.
Next, the ashes should be taken to the location of the ritual, along with any necessary materials. Once at the location, the ashes can be immersed in the holy body of water or scattered in the air, depending on the chosen type of Asthi Visarjan.
During the ritual, offering prayers and devotion to your loved one and seeking their blessings is important. You may also perform other rituals, such as offering flowers or lighting a sacred fire.
Common Mistakes to Avoid during Asthi Visarjan
Several common mistakes should be avoided during Asthi Visarjan. One of the most common mistakes is to perform the ritual in a public place or a place that could cause pollution. This is disrespectful to the deceased, the environment, and the community.
Another mistake is to perform the ritual without proper preparation or guidance. It is important to consult with a Hindu priest or astrologer to ensure the ritual is performed correctly and follows Asthi Visarjan rules and regulations.
Alternatives to Asthi Visarjan
Several alternatives can be considered for those who are unable or unwilling to perform Asthi Visarjan. One alternative is to perform a virtual Asthi Visarjan, in which the ashes are immersed in a virtual holy body of water through an online platform.
Another alternative is to perform a symbolic Asthi Visarjan, in which the ashes are immersed in a small container of water or soil. This container can be kept as a memorial or buried in a special place.
Conclusion
Performing Asthi Visarjan is a sacred and meaningful ritual that allows us to honour our loved ones and release their souls into the universe. Following Asthi Visarjan rules and regulations and performing the ritual with respect and devotion, we can ensure that our loved ones receive the proper send-off and attain Moksha.
Whether you choose to perform Asthi Visarjan yourself or use a provider’s services, it is important to choose the option that feels most appropriate and respectful for your loved one and your beliefs. Doing so lets you find comfort and closure in knowing that your loved one’s physical remains have been properly honoured and released.