Amavasya or new moon plays an influential role upon humankind, so do Mauni Amavasya. Mauni Amavasya is another significant Amavasya according to the Hindu calendar.
Significance of Mauni Amavasya:
The Sanskrit word “Mauni” indicates silence or absolute silence; on the other hand, “Ama” means together, and “Vasya” means “to live.”
Therefore, Mauni Amavasya stands for “to live or dwell together.”
The festivity falls on the Hindu month Magha (January-February), and in 2021, the day will occur on 11th February. The day denotes a traditional custom, which is taking a bath in the confluence of holy rivers. Many people, especially Sadhus (sages), observe Mauni Amavasya rituals by taking Mauni Vrat or the vow of silence. The observance indicates the awakening of wisdom.
Mauni Amavasya – How & Why?
People generally choose this day to attain their “spiritual Sadhana.” They start their day with a dip in the holy river Ganga, then start meditating. Later, they involve themselves with several activities like reading Holy Scriptures, chanting the Lord Shiva mantra, etc. Most importantly, the day is about being silent for the entire day; therefore, they do not utter a single word or sound from dawn to dusk.
The belief is, if you take a holy dip into the sacred rivers, the action will wash all your sins and will contribute to spiritual progress.
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