“Yathaa Pinde, Tathaa Brahmaande.”
Just as the macrocosm (the world or universe), so is the microcosmic (inner) world.
So posits the philosophy of Sanaatan Dharma, directing man towards the miniature universe within himself. As such, the solar system with all its planets and their oceans and mountains, can be perceived within, including Shakti, the source of all energy or power. From this infinite store-house twelve representations of light are personified which serve as sovereign principles of life. These empirical laws, referred to as Aadityas, are constituents of the primordial vastness; they are embodiments of the laws that rule the universe, which provide guidance to human society. They suggest the connectivity of human and human, humans and their environment and human and God.
Through the worship of Soorya Bhagavan, one becomes enlightened and acquires these gems of divine wisdom in the form of mastery of the sovereign world. Just as the Aadityas are upholders of dharma or righteousness, dispelling darkness from the world, nourishing life, regulating relationships and exuding brilliance to all around, so too, the sincere Sun-worshipper becomes an embodiment of these empirical laws and is able to achieve mastery of this world.
The twelve sovereign principles are:
1. Mitrataa – friendship, respect, solidarity
2. Varuna – fate, destiny
3. Aryamaan – chivalry, honour, generosity, nobility
4. Daksha – ritual skill
5. Bhaaga – inherited share, sharing of possessions
6. Ansa – luck, God’s given share
7. Twastra – craftsmanship
8. Savitra – magical power of words
9. Pooshan – prosperity, progress
10. Sakra – courage, heroism, confidence
11. Vivaswat – social laws, morals
12. Vishnu – perception of cosmos
One of the best exemplars of these Aadityas is Shri Raam who belonged to the Suryavansh or the Soorya dynasty. As the embodiment of Mitrataa, He forgot His own problems and extended solidarity to His friends through their own sorrows. He championed the cause of Sugreev and Jataayu, even in the midst of His search for the kidnapped Sita. Faced with forest life for fourteen years, Shri Raam willingly accepted his fate and used every situation to his advantage. On breaking the news to his mother of his imminent exile, he said, “Father has given me the kingdom of the forest where great works await me.”
The chivalrous, heroic roles He played in destroying the countless demons and bringing an end to the distress of the sages and others earned Him the title of Aryaamaa putra – the Noble One. Through it all, he continued to impart his wealth, kindness, knowledge to all without distinction. Indeed, His life was worship. His every leela constituted divine offerings.
Just as the sun is known for its power, strength and glory, so too is the name of Shri Raam extolled through the ages for the radiance with which it is synonymous. In like manner, every individual who offers sincere salutations to Soorya Bhagavan radiates the effulgence of the Aadityas and assumes domination of his environment while directing his steps to heightened spiritual awareness.
Worshipping Soorya Devta
Humans have been sun-worshippers from time immemorial in recognition of the unique and indispensable role of this ruler of the solar system, this destroyer of ignorance and symbol of intelligence and divine wisdom. In addition, anyone who aspires to sound health, relief from chronic diseases, prosperity, strength and courage, turns to Bhagavan for his divine intervention. Various modes of worship have been prescribed by Sanaatan Dharma. Some of these are:
- Jal-offering
- Soorya Namaskar (Sun salutation hatha yoga)
- Chanting of Aaditya Hridayam Stotra
- Mantra-jaap
- Praanaayaam
- Soorya Vrat and puja
The following mantras used in Soorya Namaskar all glorify the sun’s various attributes:
- Om Mitrayay Namah: Salutations to Him who is the friend of all
- Om Ravayay Namah: Salutations to Him who is the cause of activity
- Om Suryaayay Namah: Salutations to Him who dwells in the Sun
- Om Bhaanavay Namah: Salutations to Him who gives light
- Om Khagaayay Namah: Salutations to Him who moves through the sky
- Om Pooshnay Namah: Salutations to Him who nourishes all
- Om Hiranyagharbhaaya Namah: Salutations to Him who contains all
- Om Mareechayay Namah: Salutations to Him who possesses rays abundant
- Om Aadityaaya Namah: Salutations to Him who is the progenitor
- Om Savitray Namah: Salutations to Him who is the source of everything
- Om Arkaayay Namah: Salutations to Him, the one worshipped by all
- Om Bhaskaraaya Namah: Salutations to Him, the cause of lustre.
In the Gayatri mantra, the blessings of Soorya Bhagavan are invoked for inner illumination. Gayatri signifies the energy present in the orb of the Sun and it is with this dynamic energy that the light of divine wisdom shines and one ascends spiritually to higher levels of consciousness.
Om Bhur Bhuvah Svah
Tat Savitur Varenyam
Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi
Dhiyo Yonah Prachodayat
Translation: We meditate upon the effulgence of that adorable Supreme Divinity, the Source of Truth, Consciousness and Bliss. May that Supreme Radiance be embodied within us, enlightening our intellect and inspiring us to realise the Supreme Truth.
The worship of Soorya Bhagavan brings enlightenment which endows humans with the qualities outlined in the 12 principles. Each individual can draw from the power, strength and glory of the sun and become a spiritual luminary through devout worship.
