 Ekadashi is the 11th day of a lunar calendar or Panchangam. The Hindus observe fasting on Ekadashi. It means the 11th day of each half of the month in the Vedic lunar calendar. So there are two Ekadashi days in each month on the Vedic calendar. One is in the first half of the month whilst the moon is waxing, or growing. This is known as the Bright Fortnight. The second is in the second half of the month whilst the moon is waning, or shrinking. This is known as the Dark Fortnight.
Etymology of Ekadashi Ekadashi is a Sanskrit word for number 11. The word ‘Eka’ means one and ‘Dashi’ means ten, which means 11th day after a full moon day or a new moon day. Fasting of Ekadashi The fasting of Ekadashi varies greatly; some people do not eat anything at all, some eat a restricted diet, which consists of simple items like milk and fruits and they do not do any cooking, while some eat elaborately cooked meals that are prepared out of restricted and selected ingredients. But, all the people performing fasting have the same goal of attaining spiritual benefit. Types of Ekadashi There are different types of Ekadashi that falls throughout the year. These are as follows; Significance of Ekadashi Fasting on Ekadashi is a mandatory ritual. Different Ekadashi has different story behind it. Some sages suggest that a person should fast on any Ekadashi to free from sin. According to Hindu scriptures, Ekadashi and movement of the moon has a direct correlation with the human mind. It is believed that during Ekadashi, human mind attains maximum efficiency giving the brain a better capacity to concentrate. Devotees fast on this day, observe vigil the whole night by doing Puja and meditation. By fasting, a person becomes alert and attentive and devotion towards God becomes intense. |
| |||
Home > Society > Indian Religion > Types of Religion in India > Hinduism Religion > Panchangam > Ekadashi
Ekadashi
| Ekadashi is eleventh day of each lunar cycle on which fasting is observed to get rid of the sins. |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
