Sri
Saraswathi
Saraswathi is the Goddess of learning and knowledge. She is described as
dwelling in the tongue of her consort, Brahma, the Creator. She is therefore
called Vaagiswari, the deity governing vaak or speech, and all intellectual
activities, literature, poetry and the 64 arts in general. She is also called
Shaaradha, and Vaani. Knowledge is often spoken as pure light and all white.
Saraswathi is pure white, wears white garments and white jewels and seated on a
white lotus. The white swan is her vehicle.
SLOKA/PRAYER
Saraswathi Namasthubhyam Varadhe Kaama
Roopini
Vidhya-Arambham Karishyaami Siddhir
Bhavathu Me Sadhaa.
MEANING
Salutations to you, Saraswathi, the giver of boons and who is
delightful in form. (With your blessings) I start studying and may success
always crown my efforts.
SARASWATHI AT SSVT
Saraswathi, in Sri Siva Vishnu Temple, represents Shaaradha the presiding
deity at Sringeri. The shrine is built in Pallava style architecture. She
carries a kamandala, a japamala, and a book. Her fourth hand with the thumb and
forefinger joined in the chinmudhra, proclaims the eternal truth about identity
of the Divine and the human soul.
AUSPICIOUS DAYS AND FESTIVALS
As Saraswathi is the Goddess of knowledge
and wisdom we should pray to Her every morning. Wednesdays and Fridays are
important to Saraswathi. Saraswathi Puja and Vijaya Dasami are celebrated during
Navarathri. The last 3 days of Navarathri are dedicated to Saraswathi. These
days are dedicated for prayers to Saraswathi for success in all pursuits of
knowledge and for success in one's chosen profession.
SPECIAL OFFERINGS
Abishekams and special decorations with turmeric
powder and beads are offered to Saraswathi. A variety of preparations made of
boiled lentils, paayasam and vada are given as special offerings during the
puja. The function to initiate children to the learning process is called
Vidhyaarambam. This is performed by praying to Saraswathi and making children
write the first alphabet in their mother tongue in rice.
GAYATHRI
Maha Dhevyai Cha Vidmahe Brahma Pathnai Cha
Dheemahi
Thanno Vaani Prachodayaath.
MEANING
We worship the Supreme Goddess; Salutations to the consort of Brahma.
May that Goddess Vaani stimulate our intellectual faculties.
|
|
|
|
