Introduction to Shani Dev
In Hinduism and Vedic astrology, Shani is considered as the god of justice and karma. They give due fruits to every living being according to his deeds, hence they are also called Karmafaldata. Saturn has a special place in Navagraha and Saturday is considered to be dedicated to his worship. By worshiping Lord Shani with devotion and regularity, the obstacles of life are removed and a person is inspired to be aware of his deeds.
Most people see Shani as associated only with fear and punishment, but in reality he is a god of justice. They bestow honor, success and stability on those who do good deeds, while instructing those on the wrong path through difficult experiences. That is why Shani Dev is also known by names like Dharmaraj, Shanaischar, Suryaputra, Dandadhikari and Mandagami.
Origin of Saturn
According to mythology, Shani is the son of Suryadev and his wife Chhaya. It is said that when Mata Chhaya was pregnant, she was absorbed in rigorous devotion and penance to Lord Shiva. Due to the effect of penance and fasting, Shani Dev's complexion became dark. After Shani Dev's birth, Surya Dev expressed doubts on seeing his complexion, which caused harsh feelings towards his father in Shani Dev's mind.
After this, Shani Dev performed severe penance on Lord Shiva and pleased him. Lord Shiva while giving the boon said that Shani's position in Navagrahas will be very influential and both gods and humans will be affected by his justice. Since then Shani Dev was considered as the most powerful planet that gives results according to karmas.
Religious Significance of Lord Shani
Shani is considered to be the symbol of religion and justice. It is believed that they do not favor any person and bestow fruits only on the basis of deeds. This is the reason why Saturn's seven and a half and a half days are considered to be the testing period of life, in which a person experiences the results of his actions.
Shani Dev is worshiped in Hinduism especially on the occasion of Saturday, Shani Amavasya and Shani Jayanti. On this day, devotees donate oil, black sesame, urad and iron and try to get his grace by chanting Shani mantras.
Shanidev's family
According to scriptures, Shanidev's father is Suryadev and mother is Chhaya. Yamaraj, Yamuna and Tapti are believed to be his siblings. Shanidev was married to Neeladevi, also known as Dhamini. His family is mentioned in various Puranas and Jyotish texts.
As Lord Shani is associated with Suryavansh, his influence is not limited to astrology, but is also associated with religion, ethics and justice. He is considered to be a deity who upholds religion and truth despite his harsh nature.
Formation of Saturn
Saturn's character is said to be dark blue or black. They wear blue clothes and golden ornaments. He is usually depicted riding a crow or a vulture, which are considered symbols of his justice and karma.
His four arms are adorned with bow, arrow, trident and Varamudra. In some paintings Shani is seen seated on an iron chariot. His solemn and imposing appearance indicates that he is the god of discipline, patience and action.
Significance of planet Saturn in astrology
In Vedic astrology, Saturn is considered to be the lord of Capricorn and Aquarius. Pushya, Anuradha and Uttarabhadrapada Nakshatras also fall under Shani. Saturn transits in each sign for about two and a half years, so its influence remains in life for a long time.
If Shani is in an auspicious position in the horoscope then the person gets hard work, discipline, patience, leadership ability and long term success. On the other hand, due to inauspicious Saturn, conflict, delay, mental stress, problems related to bones and nerves may arise. According to astrology, Shani Dosha can be reduced by Neelam Ratna, Shani Mantra and Dan-Punya.
Mantras of Saturn
General Mantra :
Lord Shanaishcharai Namah.
Seed Mantra :
भगवान
Shani Gayatri Mantra :
ॐ सुर्यात्मजाय विदमहे मृत्रुपाय धीमहि।
तन्न: सौर: प्रचोदयात्।
Festivals associated with Saturn
Shani Jayanti, Shani Amavasya and Shani Pradosh are considered to be of special importance for the worship of Shani. On these occasions, devotees keep fast, chant Shani mantras and visit Shani temples to worship.
Worshiping peepal tree, lighting mustard oil lamp and donating to the needy are considered very auspicious on Saturday. This gets the grace of Shani Dev and reduces the difficulties of life.
Major temple of Shanidev
The Shani Shingnapur temple in Maharashtra is famous all over the world, where the Swayambhu statue of Lord Shani is seated. Apart from this, Shanishchara Temple in Madhya Pradesh and Kokilavaan Dham in Uttar Pradesh are also considered as major pilgrimage sites for Shani devotees.
Lakhs of devotees visit these temples every year and pray to Lord Shani for happiness, peace and righteous life.