From Devi Yagya with Paramacharya of SWAHA, Pt. Hardeo Persad
In the saga of divine manifestations, the Lord graces the earthly realm periodically, accompanied by an embodiment of the female divine energy. When Shree Raam manifested on this mortal plane, Sita Maataa descended upon Janakpur. Not born in the conventional sense, Sita Maataa’s arrival was a response to the ardent prayers of King Janak during a time of drought and famine, induced by the malevolent presence of King Rawan.
In the face of adversity, King Janak sought counsel from his guru, leading to a profound revelation. A yagya, a sacred ritual, and self sacrifice were prescribed. With a golden plough crafted by his own hands, Janak cultivated the earth, an act that brought forth a miraculous manifestation – the throne of Bhoomi Devi, the Divine Mother. This celestial occurrence marked the fruition of the king’s earnest prayers and sacrificial efforts.
As devotees, it is imperative to recognize that the divine energy pervades every corner of existence. To perceive a tangible form, one must possess faith, belief, love, conviction and other virtuous qualities. Devotees who have glimpsed divinity invariably underwent the spiritual refining process, similar to the profound self-sacrifices made by King Janak and Queen Sunaina for the welfare of their subjects. Their devotion bore fruit when Devi Maa materialised, eventually transforming into a human infant, Janaki, symbolising endearment.
Janaki’s upbringing under royal care was accompanied by transformative energy. Analogously, as we tap into our spiritual reservoir through prayer and religious practices, self-transformation becomes plausible. At six years old, Sita Maataa, having mastered diverse branches of knowledge, epitomised the societal belief in educating female children.
Her marriage to Shree Raam posed a formidable challenge: threading Shivaji’s great bow. Numerous kings, including Rawan, failed even to lift it, let alone thread it. Shree Raam, however, not only lifted the bow but effortlessly snapped it in two, exemplifying divine prowess. Sita Maataa, though the Devi herself, humbly prayed to the Divine Mother for union with Shree Raam, highlighting the potency of sincere prayer.
Throughout the ensuing challenges – exile from Ayodhya, abduction by Rawan – Sita Maataa steadfastly adhered to her principles, embodying purity of thought, mind and action. Every woman, representative of the shakti, possesses the inherent capacity for such fortitude, symbolising motivation, knowledge and transformation. As we engage in religious practices with unwavering faith, may the transformative power of Shri Raam and Sita Maataa guide our journey toward spiritual elevation. Vivah Panchmi or Raam Sita Vivaah will be observed on December 17, 2023.
