Why We Prostrate to Elders and Saintly Persons ? .

[Guest guest]

Namaste,

 

Vedic followers prostrate to their parents, elders, teachers and

Saintly persons by touching their feet . The elders in turn bless by

placing his/her hand on or over our heads. Prostration is done , when

we meet elders and particularly on important occasions like the

beginning of a new task, marriage, festivals etc. In certain

traditional circles, prostration is accompanies by " abivaadana " which

serves to introduce oneself, announce one's family and social stature.

 

Man stands on his feet. Touching the feet in prostration is a sign of

respect for the age, maturity, nobility and divinity (Lord Narayana

is situated in the heart as `Paramatma') that our elders personify.

It symbolizes our recognition of their selfless love for us and the

sacrifices that they have made for our welfare. It is a way of humbly

acknowledging the greatness of another. This tradition reflects the

strong family ties which has been of India's enduring strengths.

 

 

The good wishes (sankalpa) and the blessings (aashirvaada) of elders

are highly valued in our Country . We prostrate to seek them. Good

thoughts create positive vibrations. Good wishes springing from a

heart full of love, divinity and nobility have a tremendous strength.

When we prostrate with humility and respect, we invoke good wishes

and blessings of elders which flow in the form of positive energy to

envelop us. This is why the posture assumed whether it is in the

standing or prone position, enables the entire body to receive the

energy.

 

The different forms of showing respect are :

 

• Pratuthana - rising to welcome a person .

• Namaskaara - paying homage in the form of namaste .

• Upasangrahan - touching the feet of elders or teachers .

• Shaashtaanga - Prostrating fully with the full body touching

the ground in front of the elder .

• Pratyabivaadana - returning a greeting .

 

Rules are prescribed in our scripture as to who should prostrate to

whom. Age, family name, position, moral strength and spiritual

knowledge in ascending order or importance qualified men to receive

respect. This is why a king though a ruler of the land would

prostrate before a Guru .

 

Ramayana and Mahabharata have many stories highlighting this aspect .

 

 

Om Namo Narayanaya

 

 

Mani