Mokshada Ekadashi, observed in the auspicious month of Margashirsha, is not only a day for fasting and devotion but also a significant occasion for performing Pitru Tarpan—rituals dedicated to honoring and liberating our ancestors. Rooted in Sanatan Dharma, this practice emphasizes our duty toward those who came before us, ensuring peace for their souls and blessings for their descendants.
Understanding Pitru and Tarpan:
In Vedic philosophy, Pitru refers to our departed ancestors who reside in the Pitru Loka, a realm overseen by Lord Yama. The Shrimad Bhagavad Gita Chapter 9 Verse 25 states, "Pitrun yanti pitri-vratah," meaning those who worship their ancestors attain the realm of the Pitrus. Tarpan, which translates to "satisfaction," involves offerings of water, sesame seeds, and prayers to express gratitude to our ancestors and help their souls ascend to higher spiritual realms.
King Vaikhanas and the Power of Pitru Tarpan :
The significance of Pitru Tarpan is beautifully illustrated in the story of King Vaikhanas. The virtuous king dreamt of his father suffering in the torments of hell. Seeking guidance, he approached Sage Parvata, who revealed that his father’s karmic sins were the cause of his suffering.
The sage advised the king to observe Mokshada Ekadashi and perform Pitru Tarpan. The king followed this guidance with sincerity, dedicating the merits of his fasting and rituals to his father. As a result, his father was liberated and blessed him with peace and prosperity before ascending to the celestial realms.
Why Perform Pitru Tarpan on Mokshada Ekadashi:
1. Spiritual Energy: Mokshada Ekadashi is spiritually potent, making it the ideal day for rituals to liberate ancestors.
2. Karmic Cleansing: Pitru Tarpan helps absolve familial karmic debts and brings peace to the lineage.
3. Dharma: Performing Tarpan fulfills our dharmic responsibility toward our ancestors, as described in texts like Manusmriti and the Garuda Purana.
4. Blessings: Honoring ancestors ensures their blessings for health, harmony, and success.
How to Perform Pitru Tarpan:
1. Begin with a purifying bath and wear clean clothes.
2. Offer water mixed with black sesame seeds, barley, and kush grass while reciting Pitru Sukta or other Vedic hymns.
3. Conclude with prayers for their well-being and give charity, especially food, in their memory.
Vedic References:
- Garuda Purana: "By performing tarpana and honoring ancestors, a person attains long life, good health, and spiritual merit."
- Manusmriti 3.203: "Oblations offered to the ancestors grant satisfaction and elevate their spiritual journey."
- Mahabharata Anushasana Parva Chapter 88: "The Pitru Loka thrives on the offerings of descendants, and neglecting this duty is considered a great sin."
Mokshada Ekadashi teaches us that liberation is not only a personal journey but also a collective one that includes our ancestors. By performing Pitru Tarpan, we fulfill our duties, bring peace to our forebears, and ensure spiritual progress for our family.
Manjushree Rathi
Comments