Shankha or Conch-shell in Indian Religion Alike the swastika symbol, the shankha (conch-shell) is regarded sacred and auspicious in the Indian system of worship & religion. It bears great importance and symbolizes lustre, brilliance, purity and auspicious beginning. It is a pious object and is used in all religious rituals. It is blown to initiate religious ceremonies. Using tremendous lung-power,and sustained breath control, the player blows air into the shell to produce a powerful resounding and also altering the magnitude, sonorous sound of shankha inspires valour, courage, enthusiasm and inner spirit. The shankha (conch-shell) have the religious importance in both Hinduism ( sacred emblem of the Hindu preserver Lord Vishnu) and Buddhism (one of the eight Buddhist auspicious symbols, the Ashtamangala). In every temple, during performing the Aarti (devotional prayer-song after pooja worship), the sound produced by blowing of conch use to serve to awaken people’s minds to a prayerful attitude. The classification of Shankhas is based on their opening of the bulge. The shankhas that open towards left hand are called as Vaamavarti and they are commonly available . Shankhas which open in the middle are called are called Madhyavarti and those open towards right side (i.e., facing South), are called as Dakshinavarti. Madhyavarti and Dakhisnavarti Shankhas are rare. Dakshinavarti Shankhas are available in white colour and with brown lines on them. Their sizes differ, starting from the size of a wheat grain to as large as a coconut. Some other types of Shankas are Moti Shanks, Ganesh Shankh, Laxmi Shankh, Gaumukhi Shankh, Manipushpak Shankh, Shani Shankh, Garun Shankh and Sheshnaag Shankh. Shankhas are very beneficial for the human. Their utility can be observed in different ways. * Dakshinavarti Shankha is the symbol of Goddess Lakshmi. As, south is the direction of Kuber, the God of wealth, it is believed to bring great luck, prosperity and wealth. Tantra Shastra has also given great importance to such types of shells. Dakshinavarti shankha should be kept at the place of worship or, after being wrapped in a white cloth, at any sacred place or locker in the house. * In Scientific view, Shankhas are known to produce auspicious sounds, which helps to ward off negative vibrations or noises , thus increasing the peace & ambience in the minds of people and act as a healer. This sound is also able to kill infected bacteria. * The specific pyramid geometry of a shankha generates remarkable energy effects. Different kinds of shankhas are therefore used as yantras for different purposes in the mantra and tantra based sadhanas. Several kinds of methods of worshipping the shankhas are also described in the Indian scriptures for benefits varying from wealth, success and hypnotism. * According to Vedic Astrology, Lord Ganesha is helpful in nullifying the malefic effects of planet Rahu, which are similar to those of Shani or Saturn. They are recommend to be placed to control negative planetary effects. The Ganesha shankha increases the will power, intelligence and helps in achieving happiness, fame, good health and self-confidence. * This shell has great significance in Ayurveda. If water is stored in the shell ( esp. in Moti Shankh), it absorbs amazing medicinal properties, which is capable of curing several physical defects like skin, hair, bones, tooth problems and stomach problems. Shankh crushed and burnt ( Shankh Bhasm) is used to treat several ailments like problems of liver, stone and jaundice. * From the view point of ’Feng Shui’ this shell attracts business luck from overseas and augments the chances of travel abroad. It is extremely beneficial for those who are in the export business or those who have gone into foreign business ventures. * From Vastu Point of view, placing it in the South sector of the living room helps augment the owner’s fame and reputation. To enhance academic achievements, the conch can be placed in the North East area. If placed in the South West, it harmonizes relationships.
Posted on: Thu, 31 Oct 2013 09:39:04 +0000
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