The Sanskrit word ‘Ekaadasi’ means ‘eleventh’ and it refers to the 11th day of a fortnight of a lunar month. The 11th day in the bright and dark fortnights of the month are observed with Ekaadasi vrat or sacrifice.
Origin of Ekaadasi fast
This auspicious day is marked with special worship of Bhagavan Vishnu. Mythology has it that the demon Mura roamed the earth committing atrocious crimes everywhere. Several attempts were made to destroy him but all failed. Then from within the body of Bhagavan Vishnu, a Goddess emerged who immediately sought out the demon. Within a short time she was able to kill him, restoring peace and comfort to the holy ones. This female form of the Divine was named Ekaadasi. The Lord was pleased with her victory that He proclaimed a blessing that anyone who observes an Ekaadasi fast will be freed of the bondage of sin.
Method of fasting on Ekaadasi days
Outlined below is the suggested method of performing Ekaadasi fast. However, it should be borne in mind that one should consider health factors before determining the intensity with which the fast should be carried out. The suggested format is as follows:
1. On the Dashami or tenth day which is the day before Ekaadasi, the devotee should worship Bhagavan Vishnu. One meal is suggested at mid-day.
2. On the Ekaadasi day, again the worship should be carried out. This can take the form of:
a. Chanting of mantras pertaining to Bhagavan Vishnu,eg. ‘Om Namo Naraayanaaya’
b. Havan can be done using this mantra.
c. Listening to scriptural discourses, bhajans, mantras.
d. Reading of Satyanarayan Katha or other scriptures pertaining to Bhagavan Vishnu or Bhagavan Shri Krishna.
e. Meals should not be taken. If one needs to eat, fruits, milk and nuts are useful
f. Sleep during the day should be avoided .
g. Vigil may be observed throughout the night or as long as is possible.
h. Fast may be broken on the twelfth day after bath, worship of the Lord , distribution of food/gifts to holy ones and charity are completed.
Benefits of Ekaadasi Vrat
1. Detoxification of the body.
2. Cleanses the bowel system.
3. Metabolic adjustment takes place,
4. The digestive organs have the opportunity to rest,
5. The effects of many physical ailments become reduced
6. One experiences peace, rest, and spiritual illumination
Countless are the benefits that accrue from performing the Ekaadasi vrat. The individual who engages in this auspicious ‘tapasya’ or sacrifice for one year becomes purified physically, mentally and spiritually. Scriptures advise that everyone should perform this fast. However, since this may not be possible for everyone, it is advisable that the Ekaadasi that falls approximately four days before the Kartik full-moon is the most auspicious and that all should observe it in the manner outlined above.
