Prayer for Auspiciousness and Well-being (Shlok 2)

Seeking Divine Blessings for Senses, Health, and Longevity.

ॐ भद्रं कर्णेभिः शृणुयाम देवाः।
भद्रं पश्येमाक्षभिर्यजत्राः।
स्थिरैरङ्गैस्तुष्टुवांसस्तनूभिः।
व्यशेम देवहितं यदायुः॥

Meaning :

• ॐ (Om) : Om is the primordial sound, the sound of the universe, and a symbol of ultimate reality.

• भद्रं कर्णेभिः शृणुयाम देवा: (Bhadraṁ karṇebhiḥ śṛṇuyāma devāḥ) : May we hear auspicious words with our ears, O gods.

• भद्रं पश्येमाक्षभिर्यजत्रा: (Bhadraṁ paśyemākṣabhiryajatrāḥ) : May we see auspicious things with our eyes, O ye who sacrifice.

• स्थिरैरङ्गैस्तुष्टुवांसस्तनूभिः (Sthirairaṅgaiḥ tuṣṭuvāṁsas tanūbhiḥ) : With stable limbs and healthy bodies, may we worship the gods.

• व्यशेम देवहितं यदायुः (Vyaśema devahitaṁ yadāyuḥ) : May we attain a lifespan granted by the gods, promoting welfare.

Explanation :

This mantra is a profound invocation seeking blessings for protection, well-being, and prosperity in life. It embodies a deep spiritual plea for harmony and divine grace. Let’s break down the meaning of each line for a more detailed understanding.

ॐ (Om) :

Om is the primordial sound, representing the essence of the universe. It is the sound from which all other sounds emerge and is considered the ultimate reality. Chanting Om aligns one with the vibrations of the universe, fostering a sense of peace and unity with the cosmos.

भद्रं कर्णेभिः शृणुयाम देवा: (Bhadraṁ karṇebhiḥ śṛṇuyāma devāḥ) :

This line is a prayer to the gods asking for the ability to hear only what is auspicious and positive. It emphasizes the importance of being exposed to words and sounds that uplift and inspire, contributing to one's spiritual and mental well-being.

भद्रं पश्येमाक्षभिर्यजत्रा: (Bhadraṁ paśyemākṣabhiryajatrāḥ) :

In this line, we seek the blessing of the divine to see auspicious and beneficial things with our eyes. The term "yajatra" refers to those who are worthy of worship or sacrifice, indicating a life guided by divine visions and the pursuit of righteousness.

स्थिरैरङ्गैस्तुष्टुवांसस्तनूभिः (Sthirairaṅgaiḥ tuṣṭuvāṁsas tanūbhiḥ) :

Here, the prayer is for stability and health in our limbs and bodies. It suggests that with physical stability and health, we can effectively engage in worship and other virtuous activities. The term "tuṣṭuvāṁsas" means those who are engaged in praise or worship, highlighting the importance of a healthy body in performing spiritual practices.

व्यशेम देवहितं यदायुः (Vyaśema devahitaṁ yadāyuḥ) :

This line is a plea for a life that is long and beneficial, dedicated to the service of the gods. It encapsulates the idea that a life aligned with divine purpose and welfare is not only fulfilling but also grants longevity. The term "devahitaṁ" implies actions that are pleasing to the gods, indicating a life of dharma (righteousness) and service.

Detailed Explanation :

1. Om – The Universal Sound :

• Significance : Om is more than just a sound; it is the essence of the ultimate reality and consciousness. In spiritual practices, it is believed that chanting Om can help one achieve a state of mental clarity and inner peace.
• Application : Regular chanting or meditation on Om can help align one’s energy with the universal energy, fostering a sense of unity with all existence.

2. Hearing Auspicious Words :

• Importance : Our sense of hearing plays a crucial role in shaping our thoughts and emotions. By seeking to hear only auspicious and positive words, we aim to cultivate a positive and uplifting environment around us.
• Application : Surrounding oneself with positive influences, such as uplifting music, inspiring conversations, and sacred chants, can enhance one's mental and spiritual well-being.

3. Seeing Auspicious Things :

• Significance : Our vision greatly impacts our perception of the world. By asking for the blessing to see only what is auspicious, we are seeking to purify our vision and focus on the good in the world.
• Application : Engaging in practices like appreciating nature, observing beauty in everyday life, and focusing on positive imagery can help maintain a positive outlook.

4. Physical Stability and Health :

• Importance : Physical health is a cornerstone of effective spiritual practice. A stable and healthy body enables us to perform our duties and engage in worship with dedication and energy.
• Application : Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices such as yoga can contribute to maintaining physical stability and health, thus supporting spiritual activities.

5. A Life Dedicated to Divine Service :

• Significance : Living a life dedicated to divine service means aligning one’s actions with spiritual principles and contributing to the greater good. It brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
• Application : Engaging in selfless service, practicing compassion, and adhering to ethical principles in daily life can help fulfill this prayer for a life that is beneficial to oneself and others.