Every Ekadashi According to Vedic tradition is a significant and auspicious day, which celebrates Lord Vishnu’s endless splendor and grandeur. According to our Hindu calendar, Ekadashi is observed twice every month. The first time during the bright fortnight of the rising moon, Shukla Paksha, and the second one is during the dark fortnight of the lunar phase of waning, Krishna Paksha.
The word Nirjala originates from the words “Nir” meaning”No” and “Jala” meaning water. Together, they mean that there is no water. Thus, to observe the Nirjala Ekadashi the person who is observing the fast, not only with food but as well without water for the whole day. This is a hard fast due to the fact that Ekadashi occurs within the month of Jyeshta (May-June according to the Gregorian calendar) in this hot summer season that is prevalent in India.
However, despite its brutality, it is a fervently observed fast in order to receive the blessings of God. Nirjala Ekadashi is also known under its names like Bhimaseni Ekadashi as well as Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi. The belief is that even when one doesn’t follow the other 23 Ekadashis by observing the Nirjala Ekadashi could bring about the benefits from Lord Vishnu in addition to being cleansed of their past and present infractions.
Vrat Vidhi: How to do Nirjala Ekadashi?
Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat As the name suggests has to be observed without drinking even the smallest drops of water. This fast is considered to be extremely holy and strictly observed. The reason for this is that the fast is observed in the summer months, so total abstinence from eating would be difficult.
Additionally, it is important to note that the Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat is observed for 24 hours, starting with the dawn of Ekadashi Tithi and ending at the dawn of Dwadashi Tithi. Therefore that it is advised to avoid fasting on Nirjala Ekadashi isn’t suitable for people suffering from any type of illness or taking medications for serious ailments. However, these devotees are allowed to observe a partial fast as their dedication toward God Vishnu is more significant than strict fasting regulations.
Importance of Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat
- It is considered that the Nirjala Ekadashi is among the most satisfying Ekadashis within the Hindu tradition. The Ekadashi is highly blessed and brings prosperity, happiness, wealth, and freedom from the curse of sin as well as Moksha.
- The well-known Sage Veda Vyasa has revealed the significance of the Nirjala Ekadashi. Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat is believed to bless the person who is devoted to the benefits that are shared by all Ekadashis. Therefore, those who aren’t able to follow all 23 Ekadashis should follow the Nirjala Ekadashi fast to reap the benefits.
- There is a belief it is believed that Ekadashi eating is considered to be more holy than visiting Hindu places of pilgrimage. Nirjala Ekadashi can be observed prior to the monsoons, which helps in cleansing the body. It is also considered that anyone who is a devotee to the Nirjala Ekadashi Vrit gains the right to enter Vaikunta which is the eternal home of Lord Vishnu following their death.
What are the rules of fasting to observe for Nirjala Ekadashi?
As per Vedic astrology, The earliest Hindu manuscripts have outlined the principles of the Nirjala Ekadashi to receive the final divine blessings from Lord Vishnu and the devotees should adhere to the strict rules set forth. The prohibition on drinking water can be relaxed for devotees with medical conditions. They can consume water and maintain the fast for a short period of time.
Guidelines that can be followed by everyone.
The devotees should avoid eating grains and beans on Ekadashi
- They should avoid hurting or killing animals or living creatures.
- It is not recommended to sleep in the morning in the months of Ekadashi and Dwadashi
- They must avoid fights or disputes and should not engage in criminal actions. They must also stay away from those who engage in immoral actions.
- They must abstain from drinking, gambling, and sexual sex during periods of fasting. During the period from Dashami to Dwadashi.
- The devotees have to break their fast on Dwadashi at their homes. And only eat one meal, without honey or black lentil.
- The fast must get a break with drinking water, which signals the end of the fast.
