Soorya Devtaa can be considered the most substantial manifestation of the Supreme. The Sun is the prime source of energy on Earth and the cause of all existence. In fact, it is the sustainer of all creation; and without its powerful influence, all life on Earth would cease to exist.
In the same way that the Sun indiscriminately showers its life-sustaining energy upon every aspect of creation; so too does the Supreme Lord shower His blessings upon all devotees without distinction. But, indeed, there is an even more significant connection between us and the powerful rays of the Sun. The solar plexus or manipura chakra corresponds to our emotional power centre – influencing our will, determination and general motivation. This unique area is known to be energized daily by the powerful rays of the Sun. In the same way that one may recharge old batteries by placing them in the Sun – we can re-vitalize our own bodies by embracing the warm rays of the early morning Sun.
We should, therefore, plan our daily routine in such a way that it offers ample time to ensure that this region is fully vitalized during the day. One activity that can help accomplish this is the practice of Soorya Namaskaar. This special form of worship that combines yoga and mantra recitation confers numerous physical and mental benefits upon a devotee.
Mantra recitation, using any mantra dedicated to Soorya Devtaa will definitely promote spiritual growth and general well-being. Sanaatan Dharma teaches us that we must never be asleep once the Sun has risen. We are depriving ourselves of the wonderful blessings of Soorya or Surujnaaraayan Swaami when we This is a fact that has been well understood by the followers of Sanaatan Dharma since ancient times, where the earliest of our scriptures, the Vedas, strongly advocated the worship of Lord Soorya. Even here in Trinidad, following from the traditions of our ancestors, many firmly believe in the concept of Panch Devtaa worship, which includes Soorya Dev as one of the five main forms of the Divine.
Sanaatan Dharma teaches us that we must never be asleep once the Sun has risen. We are depriving ourselves of the wonderful blessings of Soorya or Surujnaaraayan Swaami when we he chanting of powerful prayers such as the Aaditya Hridayam Stotram and Soorya Ashtakam (both in the Soorya Upaasanaa publication of Swaha) are highly recommended. For everyday worship, one may simply chant mantras such as: Om Shree Sooryaaya Namah, Om Shree Aaditya Devaaya Namah, or the very potent Soorya Gayatri: Om Bhaaskaraaya Vidmahay, Divaakaraaya Dheemahi, Tanno Sooryah Prachodayaat.
We have always been taught to rise before the Sun rises; and, after taking a cleansing bath – offer our salutations to Sooryanaaraayan Swami by facing east and offering Jal. Indeed, this aspect of the worship of Soorya Devtaa seems to have taken precedence in our tradition. The atmosphere early in the morning is said to be spiritually charged. When we offer the water in one continuous flow, it becomes electro-magnetically charged upon contact with the powerful rays of the Sun. Thus, we establish a definite connection through which the energizing rays of the Sun can enter our body and begin to effect changes that will be of benefit.
The sun emanates the sixteen rays of knowledge. Among these are kripaa (mercy), vairaagya (dispassion), vinaya (humility), dhairya (patience) and ekagrata (concentration). These are the virtues we all need to cultivate in our lives, thereby destroying negative forces and growing in spirituality.
Maximizing the positive influences of the Sun by regular worship is necessary if we are to transcend the limitations of this inferior existence and move towards the Supreme reality. We all require that illumination which will bring spiritual awakening. We pray that Soorya Bhagwaan will help us in our journey towards becoming healthy, happy, prosperous and successful, spiritual beings.
