Significance of Month of Margashirsha
The Month of Margashirsha, according to the Purana, is a highly significant lunar month in the Hindu calendar, occurring from December to January. It is marked by special devotional practices, including the worship of Tulasi and the use of sandal-paste, as well as rituals that encourage charitable deeds. Devotees engage in holy baths and spiritual observances during this time, with heightened rituals aimed at achieving spiritual benefits and salvation, especially on specific auspicious days like the full-moon and seventh lunar day.
Synonyms: Margashirsha month, Margashirsha, Mrigashirsha
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Month of Margashirsha'
The Month of Margashirsha in Hinduism is a sacred and auspicious lunar month, recognized for its emphasis on rituals, holy baths, and meritorious activities, particularly in devotion to Lakshmi and spiritual practices leading to salvation.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A specific lunar month in the Hindu calendar, during which significant meritorious activities such as holy baths and rituals are emphasized.[1] (2) A specific time period during which certain religious practices and rituals are to be performed.[2] (3) A sacred month considered highly meritorious for performing holy rites and obtaining spiritual benefits and salvation.[3] (4) A specific time during which worshipped flowers like lotuses and other types should be offered for increased merit.[4] (5) A specific time frame considered auspicious for spiritual activities and receiving sacred Mantras.[5]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The lunar month occurring in December-January, significant for the observance of certain religious practices.[6] (2) A lunar month corresponding to December-January in which the krishna-shashtivrata can be performed.[7] (3) The month (December-January) during which the Akhandadvadashi vrata is to be observed.[8] (4) The Hindu month corresponding to December-January, during which the worship practices highlighted in the text take place.[9] (5) The ninth month in the Hindu lunar calendar, corresponding to December-January, during which worship on the seventh lunar day is believed to yield favorable outcomes.[10]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The month in which the Ananga-Trayodashi vow is observed, during the thirteenth day of the moon's increase.[11] (2) The time of the year when the Akhanda-Dyadashi-Vrata is practiced, according to the lunar calendar.[12]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) The time period (November-December) when the Shivacaturdashivrata is celebrated.[13] (2) A month during which the Gauritritiyavrata is also performed.[14]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The succeeding month after Kartika when specific rituals dedicated to Lakshmi are to be observed.[15]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A month in the Hindu calendar corresponding to November-December.[16] (2) A specific time period mentioned in the text during which the vow to worship was undertaken.[17]
From: Nitiprakasika (Critical Analysis)
(1) An ideal month for military operations due to favorable weather conditions.[18]
Jain concept of 'Month of Margashirsha'
In Jainism, the Month of Margashirsha is significant due to its unique environmental conditions, which are linked to the gestational signs of water-bodies, highlighting its importance in the natural rhythm of life and spirituality.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A specific month in the Hindu calendar known for its environmental conditions, important in the context of the gestational signs of water-bodies.[19]