Homas and its Significance
Homa is the most ancient and sacred ceremony in the Vedic tradition. In the presence of the fire element, Agni, the forms of the divine are invoked by the power of mantras and profound spiritual intention (sankalpa). Special offerings are cast into the fire while Sanskrit mantras are chanted. The element of fire is associated with the upward motion of the divine energy and is considered to be the most powerfully purifying element.
The vibrations created by the Homa have a profound effect on the atmosphere and surroundings. All homas are performed with an intention of universal happiness and peace: “lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu, Om shanti shanti shanti”, which means ‘may everyone be happy, may there be peace everywhere’. Apart from this, every specific homa will have a specific effect or benefits, depending on the type of energy the homa invokes and enhances (the ‘devata’ or divinity invoked).
How is Homa Performed
Importance of Sankalpa
How to take Sankalpa
Pujas and Homas are performed in accordance with the Vaidic tradition. They are conducted by learned and experienced Vaidic scholars (pundits) from Sri Sri Gurukul. All of them have undergone years of formal education and rigorous practical training in the field of Vaidic Studies and Traditions. Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar himself has been closely involved in the education and training of the pundits since very inception of the Gurukul and has been upgrading its facilities to best serve the society and re-ignite the light of Vaidic Dharma.
Sankalpa is derived from two words ‘Sat’ (which means good) and ‘Kalpana’ (which means intention). So Sankalpa means a good intention. During the pujas we bring the scattered mind to this moment – ‘Now’. The Vaidic Mantras when chanted have an effect on our being; the ancient Rishis had figured out the impact of various sounds on brain and that is how the Mantras were articulated. The mantras chanted during the puja generate vibrations which lead to manifestation of the sankalpa. Though Sunlight is present everywhere but when it is passed through a magnifying glass it burns the object, likewise Sankalpa intensifies the effect and brings forth the desired outcome. Attending the pujas is definitely has its own benefits, but taking a sankalpa increases the receptivity and thus actualization of intention.
Vaidic Dharma Sansthan conducts various pujas and homas, on request by devotees, for specific outcomes. Devotees can take sankalpa for various pujas and homas organized at The Art of Living, Bangalore ashram campus or online, from wherever they are. They can also Organize Pujas and Homas in their vicinity with the help of our network of coordinators and volunteers.
