Significance of Auspicious moment

Auspicious moment is defined across various traditions as a specific time deemed favorable for performing significant rituals and ceremonies. In Jainism, it pertains to important events like weddings and royal expeditions, emphasizing the role of astrological guidance. Vastushastra and Shilpashastra focus on selecting appropriate timings for construction and rituals, while Vaishnavism and Purana highlight the importance of these moments for spiritual activities and significant life events. Overall, the concept underscores the cultural belief in the beneficial impacts of timing on various occasions.1
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Synonyms: Favorable time, Opportune moment, Propitious time

In Dutch: Gunstig moment; In Finnish: Suotuisa hetki; In Spanish: Momento propicio; In German: Glückverheißender Moment; In Swedish: Lyxigt ögonblick; In Malay: Detik bertuah; In French: Moment propice; In Portugese: Momento auspicioso; In Italian: Momento propizio; In Polish: Pomyślny moment

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Auspicious moment'
Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, an auspicious moment is a fleeting opportunity. If missed, it won't return for a year, creating urgency. This drives important decisions, like selecting a new chaplain.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6

(1) A time that would not come again until the end of a year if the gate was not set up, creating a sense of urgency and leading to the selection of a new chaplain.[1]

Hindu concept of 'Auspicious moment'
Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, an "auspicious moment" signifies a favorable and fortunate time for significant rituals, births, and events, determined by divine approval and astrological alignment, enhancing their spiritual importance and impact.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

From: Chaitanya Mangala

(1) The auspicious moment of dusk arrived after the ceremony of welcoming the bridegroom, marking a significant transition in the event.[2] (2) The acceptance of sannyasa by Lord Gaura occurred at a particularly favorable and propitious point in time.[3] (3) This perfect time occurred during the month of Phalguna, on an auspicious day, tithi, and full-moon night, when the cooling moon shone.[4] (4) An auspicious moment is described as a favorable time when specific events occurred, like the first placement of a writing chalk in a child's hand, which is considered wonderful.[5] (5) A favorable and significant time during the ceremonies when vital actions were performed.[6]

From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya

(1) The adhibas ceremony (preliminary to Wedding) was celebrated with great éclat by all friends and followers at the auspicious Moment on the auspicious Day.[7] (2) A precisely determined time deemed favorable for conducting important rituals.[8]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) The specific time appointed for conducting the marriage rituals, ensuring they are performed under favorable conditions.[9] (2) A specific time deemed favorable or fortunate for an important event or action, particularly related to divinity.[10] (3) A favorable or fortunate time recognized by the Lord that signifies the right time to commence a journey.[11] (4) An auspicious moment indicates a timely or favorable occasion for witnessing or experiencing an event, implying that the speaker felt fortunate to witness what unfolded.[12] (5) The favorable timing referred to in the phrase 'ye avadhi lagi’,' indicating a significant moment awaited by Nityananda.[13]

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) A specific, favorable time chosen for setting out on a significant undertaking, such as a military expedition for conquest.[14] (2) A time considered to be fortunate, under which Rama set out with his army.[15]

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) This describes the timing of the birth of Madhavi's daughter, an incarnation of Lakshmi, characterized by auspicious Yoga, Lagna, Amsa, and planetary combinations.[16] (2) The time when the king Sudarshana had an image of the Devi nicely built and got that installed with the help of the Pundits, versed in the Vedas.[17] (3) A critical time noted for its significance in events, especially related to divine activities or creation.[18]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) A favorable time to begin an activity, suggesting that success is more likely due to the timing.[19]

From: Harivamsha Purana

(1) The favorable circumstances that Kalayavana believes will support his efforts in the battle against Keshava.[20] (2) The favorable occasion marked by Janarddana's entrance into Mathura, indicating good fortune.[21]

From: Vishnu Purana

(1) A time deemed favorable for certain activities, such as engaging with one's spouse.[22]

Significance in Shilpashastra (iconography):
Shilpashastra Books

Shilpashastra represents the ancient Indian science (shastra) of creative arts (shilpa) such as sculpture, iconography and painting. Closely related to Vastushastra (architecture), they often share the same literature.

From: Manasara (English translation)

(1) A specific time deemed favorable for performing the house opening ceremonies.[23] (2) A specific time deemed favorable for rituals based on cosmic alignments and astrological factors.[24] (3) An important moment determined by astrological guidelines that is deemed favorable for conducting rituals and ceremonies.[25] (4) A specified favorable time during the day considered suitable for the erection of the gnomon.[26] (5) A specifically chosen time considered favorable for conducting important ceremonies and rituals.[27]

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or ‘epic poetry’ and natya, or ‘dramatic poetry’.

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) Yaugandharayana quickly ascertained this before sending an ambassador to the sovereign of Magadha with an answer to the marriage proposal.[28] (2) A time fixed for Madiravati's marriage, causing distress to the Brahman who loves her.[29] (3) The specific time selected for Dhavala and Madanasundari’s marriage, believed to have significance.[30] (4) A favorable time considered essential for celebrating important events such as marriage.[31] (5) The socially significant time when the marriage of Somaprabha should have occurred, marked by conflict among the suitors.[32]

Significance in Vastushastra (architecture):
Vastushastra Books

Vastushastra refers to the ancient Indian science (shastra) of architecture (vastu), dealing with topics such architecture, sculpture, town-building, fort building and various other constructions. Vastu also deals with the philosophy of the architectural relation with the cosmic universe.

From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)

(1) Refers to the specific time deemed favorable for commencing the operations on constructing sleeping couches.[33]

From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)

(1) A specifically chosen time considered favorable for carrying out important rituals associated with construction and town-planning.[34]

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) A specific time determined by astrological conditions that is ideal for conducting a ceremony, unaffected by negative planetary influences.[35]

Significance in Rasashastra (chemistry and alchemy):
Rasashastra Books

Rasashastra is an important branch of Ayurveda, specialising in chemical interactions with herbs, metals and minerals. Some texts combine yogic and tantric practices with various alchemical operations. The ultimate goal of Rasashastra is not only to preserve and prolong life, but also to bestow wealth upon humankind.

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory

(1) A specific time deemed favorable for performing rituals, indicated by the moon's conjunction with a benefic star.[36]

Jain concept of 'Auspicious moment'
Jainism Books

In Jainism, "Auspicious moment" signifies a favorable time for significant actions, such as weddings and births, identified by astrologers and marked by celestial influences, emphasizing the importance of timing in key life events and relationships.

Significance in Jainism (general):

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) The marriage ceremony between Satyabhama and Kapila took place at a time considered fortunate and favorable.[37] (2) An opportune time marked by favorable circumstances, after a special ceremony, when the King began his expedition, indicating the importance of timing.[38] (3) A time during the wedding ceremony deemed favorable for taking significant actions, such as the joining of hands between the brides and groom.[39] (4) A favorable time during the proceedings deemed suitable for significant actions to take place.[40] (5) A significant time identified by Hiranyavati for union, showing the importance of timing in relationships.[41]

From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)

(1) Specific timeframes recognized for their positive significance during important ceremonies and life events.[42]

The concept of Auspicious moment in local and regional sources
History Books

The term "Auspicious moment" signifies a favorable and joyful time, such as during weddings, childbirth, or significant astrological events like Rama's birth, highlighting its importance in cultural celebrations and personal milestones.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) It is the precise time for the wedding ceremony, but it arrives only to find that the groom has disappeared, leaving everyone in dismay.[43] (2) This phrase describes a favorable time or occasion, when the events were supposed to happen, when Mr. Dutt was supposed to give his speech.[44] (3) The time when the wedding ceremony takes place, which is mentioned in the text.[45] (4) A moment deemed as favorable or significant, often marked by a sense of joy or positivity.[46] (5) The astrological alignment during which Rama was born, noted for its positive significance.[47]

Plural form: Auspicious moments.