As we observe the sacred occasion of Gayatri Jayanti on August 19, 2024, let us reflect on the profound significance this day holds in awakening the Divine consciousness within us. In the revered Devi Bhagwat, Gayatri Devi is depicted as the embodiment of existence, intelligence and bliss.
The Essence of Gayatri Devi
While many are familiar with the Gayatri Mantra, the deeper aspects of Gayatri Devi are less widely known. She is celebrated by her 1,008 names, each reflecting a unique facet of her divine nature. Notable among these names are:
– Veda Maataa – Mother of the Vedas
– Agni Mukha – The burning power of fire
– Saraswati – Goddess of knowledge
– Prithivi – Goddess of Earth
– Amrita – Bestower of immortality
– Aditi – Mother of the Devas
In the Devi Bhagwat, Gayatri Devi is described as adorned in red, holding a red jap maala, and engaging in the study of the Rig Veda while seated upon a swan. Her four feet symbolise the four Vedas, and she is portrayed as the ruler of the eight directions, with seven heads representing various fields of knowledge.
Gayatri Devi embodies the fire’s essence through Agni Devta, and is guided by Rudraji, the source of intellect. When we invoke her in prayer, we must include these divine aspects in our meditation. The Gayatri Mantra begins with “Om,” the sacred primal sound, and should be prefaced by “Hari Om Tat Sat” to purify our intentions before reciting it.
Sacred Spaces for Chanting
The mantra may be chanted anywhere; however, the Devi Bhagwat emphasises specific locations for great spiritual benefits, such as under a peepal tree, in temples or along the banks of sacred rivers. These spaces enhance the sanctity of the practice.
Among the most revered forms of the Gayatri Mantra is the 100-syllabled version found in the Vedas, combining elements of “Om bhur bhuvah…” and others, which the Devi Bhagwat extols as particularly auspicious.
Reciting the Gayatri Mantra not only brings spiritual fulfilment but is also a powerful shield against negativity. Whether as a personal safeguard, inscribed on our walls, or in our hearts and minds, its presence fosters peace and shelter within our homes.
The Divine Gayatri Mantra
The Gayatri Mantra, also known as the Savitri Mantra, is a revered verse from the Rig Veda (3.62.10), dedicated to the Sun. It is composed in the Gayatri metre, the mother of all metres, reflecting its foundational significance. The very name “Gayatri” signifies “she who protects,” and as such, Gayatri Devi represents the Divine Mother in her many forms.
The mantra, among the oldest and most powerful in Hindu tradition, is often referred to as “the Mother of the Vedas.” In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna declares: “Among all the mantras, I am the Gayatri.”
Through the Gayatri Mantra, we invoke the blessings of Soorya Bhagavan for inner illumination. It embodies the radiant energy of the sun, guiding us toward spiritual ascent and higher consciousness.
The Power of Chanting
The Gayatri Mantra is not just a series of words; it combines the power of mantra with the potency of prayer. Each syllable is carefully chosen to inspire enlightenment. By chanting with understanding, we tap into the intrinsic power of mantra shakti, resulting in profound inner illumination, heightened intelligence and enhanced awareness.
Chanting the mantra can occur at any time, but the most auspicious moments are during the three sandhyas—dawn, midday and dusk. Beginning the day with this sacred invocation honours the lifegiving sun, essential to all existence. It is recommended to chant the mantra at least five times daily.
The Gayatri Mantra
Om Bhur Bhuvah Svah,
Tat Savitur Varenyam.
Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi.
Dhiyo Yonah Prachodayaat
Meaning:
Bhu: Earth, existence, the realm of truth
Bhuvah: Atmosphere, the sphere of consciousness
Svah: Heavens, the blissful state
Tat:That, denoting the Ultimate Reality
Savitur: Derived from Savita, the source of light and wisdom
Varenyam: The most exalted, the highest reality
Bhargo: Illumination, radiance
Devasya: The Absolute Personality, God
Dhiyo: Intellect
Yo: Who, the Divine
Nah: Ours
Prachodayaat: A prayerful request
Translation:
“We meditate upon the effulgence of that adorable Supreme Divinity, the source of Truth, Consciousness and Bliss. May that Supreme Radiance reside within us, enlightening our intellect and inspiring us to realise the Supreme Truth.”
As we celebrate Gayatri Jayanti, let us embrace the transformative power of the Gayatri Mantra and invoke its blessings for a deeper connection to the Divine within ourselves and the world around us.
