Should You Sweep the Floor at Night? Here’s What Vastu Shastra Really Says
Not Sweeping After Sunset: Know Religious Belief: You may have often heard elders advise against sweeping the floor or touching the Tulsi plant in the evening. But have you ever wondered why? These practices are rooted in age-old Hindu beliefs that associate such actions with negative outcomes. Indian traditions, passed down for generations, hold that sweeping at night can invite poverty and disrupt the home’s energy. These beliefs are supported by religious texts, cultural customs, and astrological insights. While modern thinking has led some to question these traditions, they are still respected and followed in many households today.
Why You Should Not Sweep in the Evening: Beliefs and Reasons
Traditional Beliefs Rooted in Hindu Culture
In Indian households, elders often advise against sweeping the floor or touching the Tulsi plant after sunset. These customs are deeply rooted in religious and cultural beliefs passed down for generations. While modern perspectives are evolving, these practices remain significant in many homes even today.
Religious Belief: Disrespect to Goddess Lakshmi
According to Hindu scriptures and the Puranas, the broom is a symbol of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Sweeping the house at night is believed to drive away wealth and prosperity, offending the goddess. It is said that this act invites poverty and misfortune into the home.
Vastu Shastra and Spiritual Beliefs
Vastu Shastra warns against sweeping at night, as it is thought to invite negative energies, ghosts, and demonic forces into the household. Nighttime is believed to disturb the flow of positive energy, and therefore, cleaning during this time is considered inauspicious by many Vastu experts.
Astrological View: Influence of Rahu and Ketu
Astrology associates nighttime with the influence of shadow planets Rahu and Ketu, which are linked to confusion, illusions, and negativity. Sweeping during this time is said to enhance the presence of negative energies and suppress the positive vibrations within a home.
Cultural Reasons from Ancient Times
In ancient times, when there was no electricity, lighting was limited in the evening. Sweeping after sunset could accidentally result in discarding valuable items or money. Hence, people adopted the practice of avoiding sweeping at night to prevent unintentional loss.
Scientific and Practical Angle
Lack of natural light in the evening reduces visibility, which may impact the efficiency of cleaning and can lead to missed spots or throwing away useful items. Additionally, late-night chores may disrupt sleep schedules and cause physical fatigue or stress.
What to Do If Sweeping After Sunset Is Necessary?
If you must sweep the house in the evening—for example, after returning from travel or a function—Vastu Shastra advises not to throw the garbage outside immediately. Instead, store the waste inside a closed dustbin and dispose of it the next morning. This practice is believed to retain prosperity and avoid driving away positive energy.
When to Replace the Broom According to Vastu?
As per Vastu Shastra:
- Replace the broom once a month, or at least once every three months.
- Change the broom after a negative event, illness, or conflict in the household to clear lingering negative energy.
- Replace it at sunrise, as this time carries positive energy.
- Before using the new broom, clean and purify the space where it will be stored or used.
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