Why we say swaha during hawan in Hinduism? What does it mean?
Who is Swaha Devi? Without Whom Every Mantra And Havan Remains Incomplete: In Indian mythology and Vedic rituals, some names are so important that no religious act can be complete without them. One such important name is that of Goddess Swaha. Often during yagya and havan, when offerings are made in the fire, the word “Swaha” is inevitably pronounced. But have you ever wondered that it is not just a word, but the name of a powerful goddess? Let us know who Goddess Swaha is, what her importance is, and why every mantra and havan is considered incomplete without her.
Who is Goddess Swaha?
According to mythology, Goddess Swaha finds mention in many ancient texts, especially the Puranas and Vedas. She is the wife of Agni Dev. The word ‘Swaha’ is derived from two Sanskrit words. ‘Su’ meaning ‘good’ or ‘well-done’, and ‘ah’ meaning ‘to invoke’ or ‘to reach’. Thus, ‘Swaha’ literally means “well-delivered”. The word symbolises that the oblations or offerings put into the fire have reached the gods properly. According to some legends, Goddess Swaha is considered to be the daughter of Daksha Prajapati. While in other stories, she is considered to be the power of Agni, one of the five elements of nature.
Why is the pronunciation of Swaha so important?
The pronunciation of ‘Swaha’ is mandatory in every religious ritual and yajna because it is believed that without it, the offerings made in the fire do not reach the gods directly. It is said that Devi Swaha is the medium who takes the offerings to the gods.
Food of the Gods: In the Vedic period, Yagya was considered a way of offering food to the gods. When we dedicate something to the fire by saying “Swaha” with mantras, it directly reaches the deity for whom the sacrifice has been made.
Perfection of Mantras: By uttering ‘Swaha’ at the end of every mantra, the mantra is empowered and made acceptable to the gods.
Blessings of Agni Dev: Since Swaha is the wife of Agni Dev, offering sacrifice in her name pleases Agni Dev as well and makes the ritual successful.
Scientific and Spiritual Importance of Swaha
Not just mythology, ‘Swaha’ also has a deep spiritual and psychological significance. When we chant ‘Swaha’, we let go of our sense of ego and accept that whatever we are offering is for some higher power. It reflects the feeling of surrender.
Therefore, Goddess Swaha is not just a name but a power that acts as a bridge between humans and gods. Without her, the sacred act of Yagya is considered incomplete and meaningless.
ALSO READ: Shah Rukh Khan upcoming movies list
