Amavasya is a day when the moon completely disappears from the sky. In Hindu culture, people perceive it as a special time with deep meaning. People believe it’s full of mysterious and powerful energies, not necessarily bad ones. Hindus use this day to remember their ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. Some think that their ancestors actually come to visit them on this day.
Annually, Hindus observe one important Amavasya known as Pitru Amavasya. It’s all about honoring and showing respect to our ancestors. People offer food and do rituals to help their ancestors find peace in the afterlife.
Another significant Amavasya is MahalayaAmavasya, which kicks off the Durga Puja. During this festival, they celebrate the goddess Durga’s victory over a demon named Mahisasura.
Amavasya also links to the idea of Moksha, which resembles spiritual freedom. It’s a great day to start your spiritual journey and work on clearing away the ignorance in your mind to connect with the truth within you.
Shiva, a Hindu god, connects us to Amavasya by helping us open up to the truth inside us. The dark night of Amavasya resembles the darkness in our minds, which the light of truth can illuminate.
Amavasya happens every month when the moon vanishes from the sky. It’s an important day for various religious and spiritual activities in Hinduism. People fast, perform rituals, and pray to their ancestors and gods on this day.
In Hindu astrology, known as Jyotish, Amavasya is significant too. People believe that what happens during this time can strongly affect a person’s life and future. So, it’s a good idea to do positive things on Amavasya to benefit from its energy.
Types of Amavasya
In Hinduism, there are various kinds of Amavasya, each with its unique significance. Let’s take a closer look:
1. Shradh Amavasya:
This day is all about remembering and honoring our ancestors. People believe that by performing rituals on this day, they can provide peace to the souls of their ancestors. It’s a way to show love and respect to those who came before us.
Date for Shradh Amavasya 2024 –
On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, Amavasya Shraddha will be observed. The Qutub Muhurta will be from 11:47 A.M. to 12:35 P.M., lasting for 48 minutes. Following this, the Rauhin Muhurta will occur from 12:35 P.M. to 1:24 P.M., also lasting for 48 minutes. In the afternoon, the time from 1:24 P.M. to 3:48 P.M. will be available, with a duration of 2 hours and 24 minutes.
2. Mahalaya Amavasya:
This is an important day in the Bengali calendar. Moreover, it marks the beginning of the Durga Puja festival, which celebrates the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. Furthermore, it’s a time for joyful festivities and cultural traditions.
Date for Mahalaya Amavasya 2024 –
Maha Amavasya in 2024 will be observed on specific dates and times. The Amavasya Tithi will commence on October 1, 2024, at 9:39 PM and will end on October 3, 2024, at 12:18 AM. On October 2, 2024, the Qutub Muhurta will be observed from 11:12 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by the Rauhin Muhurta from 12:00 PM to 12:47 PM. Additionally, the Madhyahna Time on October 2, 2024, will last from 12:47 PM to 3:11 PM.
3. PitruAmavasya:
Similar to ShradhAmavasya, people dedicate this day to honoring their ancestors and performing rituals for them. Additionally, it’s a way to ensure that our ancestors are at peace and well taken care of, even after they’ve passed away.
Date for PitruAmavasya 2024 –
Sarva Pitri Amavasya in 2024 will be observed with specific dates and times. The Amavasya Tithi will begin on October 1, 2024, at 9:39 PM and will end on October 3, 2024, at 12:18 AM. On October 2, 2024, the Qutub Muhurta will be from 11:12 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by the Rauhin Muhurta from 12:00 PM to 12:47 PM. Additionally, the Madhyahna Time on October 2, 2024, will last from 12:47 PM to 3:11 PM.
Also Read – Ashadha Amavasya 2024: Date, Rituals, and More
4. MahaAmavasya:
This special Amavasya occurs only once every 19 years, making it particularly significant. It’s a rare event and holds a unique place among all Amavasya days.
Date for MahaAmavasya 2024 –
Maha Amavasya in 2024 will be observed on specific dates and times. The Amavasya Tithi will commence on October 1, 2024, at 9:39 PM and will end on October 3, 2024, at 12:18 AM. On October 2, 2024, the Qutub Muhurta will be observed from 11:12 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by the Rauhin Muhurta from 12:00 PM to 12:47 PM. Additionally, the Madhyahna Time on October 2, 2024, will last from 12:47 PM to 3:11 PM.
5. Solar Eclipse Amavasya:
When an Amavasya coincides with a solar eclipse, people consider it extra special. People believe that performing religious rituals on this day can bring even more blessings and prosperity. A solar eclipse is when the moon covers the sun, creating a unique celestial event.
Date for Solar Eclipse Amavasya 2024 –
The second solar eclipse of the year is scheduled for October 2, 2024, occurring on a Wednesday. This eclipse will begin at 9:13 PM and conclude at 3:17 AM IST (Indian Standard Time). According to scriptures, the sutak (pre-eclipse period) starts 12 hours before the eclipse, beginning at 9:00 AM IST on the same day. During this period, it is advised to refrain from eating or cooking food to avoid any negative effects associated with the eclipse.
6. Lunar Eclipse Amavasya:
Similar to the solar eclipse Amavasya, this one happens during a lunar eclipse. People also believe that performing religious rituals on this day can bring extra blessings and prosperity. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow on the moon.
Date for Lunar Eclipse Amavasya 2024 –
The lunar eclipse in 2024 is set to take place on September 18, according to Indian Standard Time (IST). The key phases of the eclipse will unfold as follows: the penumbral eclipse will begin at 6:11 AM, followed by the partial eclipse starting at 7:42 AM. The maximum eclipse will occur at 8:14 AM, after which the partial eclipse will end at 8:45 AM. Finally, the penumbral eclipse will conclude at 10:17 AM.
Also Read – Pitru Paksha: A Time for Remembrance and Reverence
In Hinduism, the concept of energies divides into three types:
- Satvic Energies:
- These are related to our true consciousness and help us connect with our inner selves. They guide us toward our authentic selves and spiritual growth.
- Rajasic Energies:
- These energies are related to objects and attractions in the physical world. They pull us towards material possessions and desires but don’t necessarily lead us to our true selves.
- Tamasic Energies:
- Tamasic energies are still and unchanging. They represent a kind of mental darkness or inertia, keeping us in a state of rest or stagnation. They don’t promote growth or movement towards our true selves.
Significance of Amavasya
Amavasya, the new moon day in Hinduism, has both good and bad beliefs. Some think it’s a bad day when evil spirits are very strong. This can make people feel more emotional and unstable because of the Moon’s pull on them.
But when Amavasya falls on a Monday, it’s more important. Women do special fasting rituals to try and get pregnant. People also believe that fasting on this day can make their wishes come true.
Amavasya is not always bad; it’s linked to karma, reflecting the idea that our actions have consequences. People use this day to think about their actions, clear any debts from their past, and start fresh. They also worship the goddess Lakshmi, hoping for blessings and wealth.
One of the most interesting aspects of Amavasya is that fasting on this day is believed to be a means to fulfill any desire. People from India and various parts of the world observe fasts on Amavasya, seeking blessings from Gods and Goddesses and hoping for the fulfillment of their wishes. The fasting process generally involves not eating food throughout the day and often includes listening to the Amavasyavratkatha in the evening to complete the fasting. It is a time when individuals turn their focus to the spiritual world, engage in spiritual practices, and expect the fulfillment of their desires and wishes.
Also Read – Pitru Paksha 2024: Honoring Ancestors and Embracing Spiritual Reflection
The Dark Side of Amavasya: How It Can Affect Your Life
Amavasya, or the new moon day, is a fascinating aspect of Hindu culture. Notwithstanding its significance in various rituals and beliefs, Amavasya also harbors adverse effects associated with it. Consequently, let’s delve into the less favorable aspects of Amavasya, elucidating how it can influence human behavior, impact newborns, and even correlate with unfavorable astrological events.
- No Auspicious Events:According to spiritual beliefs, people consider Amavasya an unfavorable time when they advise against engaging in any good events or activities. People avoid starting anything new or traveling on this day due to the perceived negative effects.
- Impact on Human Nature:
People believe that Amavasya negatively influences human behavior and nature. The energies present during this period can affect people’s emotions and actions, making them more vulnerable.
- Effect on Newborns:Even newborn babies are believed to be affected by the energies of Amavasya. People believe that this day can influence their well-being and behavior.
- A Bad Omen:Those who follow astrology view Amavasya as a bad omen for starting auspicious ceremonies. They believe it is inauspicious when the planets align in trine with the Sun during this time.
- Issues with Inner Harmony:People who are not in sync with their inner selves, or whose minds don’t align with their soul, may face difficulties during Amavasya. This can affect their mental and emotional well-being.
- The practice of Negative Arts:Some individuals may engage in harmful practices such as evil and black magic during this period, contributing to the negative associations with Amavasya.
- AmavasyaDosha:Believers attribute problems and obstacles to having Amavasya Dosha in one’s birth chart. It can adversely affect various aspects of a person’s life, including:
- Relationship with their mother
- Receiving blessings from their mother
- Good fortune for the individual and their family
- Mental and physical health
- Financial stability
- Career progression
Also Read – Pitra Dosh: Meaning, Effects, and Remedies for Every Zodiac Sign
What to Do During Amavasya:
- Watch Your Diet:
- Avoid heavy or spicy foods on Amavasya. It’s best to keep your meals light, or consider fasting for the day.
- Aura Cleansing:
- Moreover, use salt, peacock feathers, or lemons to cleanse your physical aura. Don’t forget to extend this cleansing to your loved ones and your home.
- Mantra Meditation:
- Sit in a quiet place and chant a mantra of your choice 108 times. Mantras are usually in Sanskrit, like the Gayatri mantra or Mahamrutunjai mantra.
- Set Your Intention:
- Remember that the purpose of the day is to make progress in your spiritual journey and to live a happy and healthy life. Use this time to let go of anything that might be holding you back gently.
The Do’s and Don’ts during Amavasya:
Things to Do:
- Home Cleaning:
- Clean every corner of your house and remove unnecessary items. This can help bring clarity to your mind.
- Seeking Wealth:
- If you’re seeking wealth, consider displaying a yellow triangular flag associated with Vishnu, but feel free to change it when needed.
- Removal of Obstacles:
- Moreover, to remove difficulties or obstructions, flow a spoon of milk or wash barley with milk and release it into a flowing river or stream.
- Promote Peace:
- Offer five fruits to a cow if it’s affordable for you to promote happiness and peace in your home.
- Solve Employment Issues:
- Cut a lemon in half and throw it in four different directions to address employment problems.
- Ancestor Worship:
- Perform Tarpanam for your ancestors on all Amavasya days.
- Respect Elders:
- Show respect to your elders, especially your parents.
- Donate Food:
- Give food items like rice, jaggery, and milk to the poor and needy on Amavasya days.
- Worship Goddess Kali:
- Worship Goddess Kali, who can help mitigate the effects of AmavasyaDosha.
- Shiva Worship:
- On Mondays, worship Lord Shiva and chant ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ 108 times, as believers attribute Shiva with aiding the Moon in escaping his curse.
- Vegetarian Meals:
- Consume vegetarian meals on Amavasya days.
Also Read – Kaal Sarp Dosh: Meaning, Effects, and Remedies for Every Zodiac Sign
Things to Avoid:
- Late Waking:
- It’s best not to wake up late on Amavasya, as it’s considered a time when positivity and divinity are present in the morning. Late waking may expose you to negative energies.
- Physical Relationships:
- Married couples are advised to avoid physical relationships on this day to prevent potential negative influences on childbirth.
- Displeasing Ancestors:
- Be careful not to displease your ancestors on this special day when they are traditionally honored.
- Avoid Anger:
- Try to keep your temper in check and stay humble. Avoid unnecessary insults or humiliation, especially towards those less fortunate.
- Don’t Interrupt Donations:
- Alongside this, do not interrupt or disrupt the charitable acts of others, even if you are not participating. Let others complete their acts of generosity undisturbed.
- Avoid Non-Vegetarian Foods:
- Refrain from eating non-vegetarian foods on Amavasya, as it’s believed that consuming such foods on this day can lead to illness.
- Avoid Auspicious Ceremonies:
- Avoid scheduling auspicious ceremonies like marriages, house warmings, or baby naming ceremonies on Amavasya, as it’s considered inauspicious.
- Grain Purchases:
- Amavasya is not the best time to buy food grains like rice and wheat or their flours. Moreover, many believe that the position of the Moon and stars influences an individual’s health and future, making Amavasya an unfavorable time for such purchases.
- Avoid Plucking Tulsi Leaves:
- Plucking Tulsi leaves is prohibited during Amavasya, according to Hindu scriptures.
Moreover, Amavasya with its customs and observances, provides an opportunity to connect with our spiritual and ritualistic roots. It’s a time to reflect, offer respect to our ancestors, and set intentions for a brighter future. During this period, each action or restraint is seen as a means to align with the cosmic energies of Amavasya.
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FAQs
What Is Amavasya Dosha?
AmavasyaDosha is when the Sun and the Moon are close together in a birth chart. This makes the Moon weaker, especially during the new moon. This weakens the Moon’s positive influence. It’s related to something called TithiDosha.
What is Amavasya, and why is it significant?
Amavasya is the new moon phase in the Hindu lunar calendar, symbolizing new beginnings. It holds spiritual significance for performing rituals to honor ancestors and seek blessings for prosperity and peace.
How do the Moon’s phases affect our daily lives?
The Moon’s phases are believed to influence emotions, health, and decision-making. Many people follow lunar cycles for planting, fishing, and scheduling significant events, as the Moon is thought to affect energy levels and intuition.
What rituals are performed on Amavasya?
On Amavasya, people perform rituals like Tarpan to honor ancestors, light lamps, and offer prayers for peace and prosperity. It is also a day for introspection and spiritual practices, promoting personal growth.
Can I make important purchases on Amavasya?
Traditionally, Amavasya is considered an unfavorable time for significant purchases or starting new ventures. It is believed that the energies during this phase are not conducive for making lasting commitments or investments.
How does Maha Amavasya differ from regular Amavasya?
Maha Amavasya is a more significant observance than regular Amavasya. It occurs once a year, often during the Pitru Paksha period, and is particularly important for performing rituals to honor ancestors and seek their blessings.