Significance of Margashirsha month
Margashirsha month is significant in various Hindu traditions for its spiritual, agricultural, and military implications. According to the Arthashastra, it is ideal for leading expeditions due to favorable conditions and abundant crops. In Vaishnavism, it is recognized as an auspicious month for spiritual practices, while Purana emphasizes numerous rituals, including the Shivacaturdashivrata and Matsya festival. Dharmashastra highlights its importance due to the Agrahayani full moon, making Margashirsha a period rich in both religious observance and cultural activities.
Synonyms: Mrigashirsha, Margashira
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Margashirsha month'
Margashirsha month in Hinduism is a spiritually significant lunar month (November-December) ideal for worship, rituals, and military expeditions, marked by floral offerings, holy practices, and notable observances like Ekadashi and the Matsya festival.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A lunar month in the Hindu calendar that includes significant days for spiritual practices such as holy baths and rituals.[1] (2) A lunar month when specific rituals are said to be particularly potent, especially regarding marital prayers.[2] (3) A specific period in which particular flowers are especially meritorious when offered.[3] (4) A specific month dedicated to the worship of Keshava.[4] (5) A particular lunar month during which the worship of Tulasi and other rituals are emphasized, especially for accruing merits and blessings.[5]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The month of December-January in the lunar calendar during which the krishna-shashtivrata should be performed.[6] (2) A month in the Hindu calendar corresponding to December-January when the Akhandadvadashi vrata is performed.[7] (3) The month corresponding to December-January when certain worship practices occur.[8] (4) The month where giving salt on the twelfth day is performed after worshipping lord Krishna.[9]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A specific month in the Hindu calendar during which significant religious observances, including Ekadashi, take place.[10] (2) A month when worship should be performed with various flowers, offerings, and lights.[11]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) A month in the Hindu calendar (approximately November-December) during which the Shivacaturdashivrata is observed.[12]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) The month recognized as the most suitable season for leading an expedition, characterized by abundant fresh crops and foodstuff.[13] (2) Declared the most suitable season for leading an expedition due to the abundance of fresh crops and foodstuff.[14]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) A specific month (December) referred to for planning military marches based on the conditions of the enemy.[15]
From: Nitiprakasika (Critical Analysis)
(1) A period identified as favorable for warfare expeditions due to clear roads and pleasant weather.[16]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The month during which the events described take place, corresponding to November-December.[17] (2) The auspicious month during which the events described occur, specifically in November-December.[18] (3) Margashirsha is a month in the Hindu calendar during which significant spiritual practices can be observed.[19]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) The month in which the Agrahayani full moon occurs, significant for the rituals described.[20]