Hindu guru goyal : Radha Ashtami: Sacred Birth in Skanda Purana

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Wednesday, August 21, 2024

Radha Ashtami: Sacred Birth in Skanda Purana

 

The Sacred Birth of Radha Rani in the Skanda Purana, illuminated by divine light and symbols.

Radha Ashtami: Sacred Birth in Skanda Purana

Author: Shweta Goyal

Introduction

Radha Ashtami, celebrated as the appearance day of Srimati Radharani, holds a sacred place in the hearts of Krishna devotees. The Skanda Purana, one of the major Puranic texts in Hinduism, describes Radha’s birth as a divine event, filled with spiritual significance and cosmic symbolism. This post delves into the narrative of Radha’s sacred birth as outlined in the Skanda Purana, highlighting its importance in the broader context of Krishna’s pastimes and the path of Bhakti Yoga.

The Sacred Birth of Radha

According to the Skanda Purana, Radha Rani was born in the village of Barsana to King Vrishabhanu and Queen Kirtida. Her birth was not just a physical event but a manifestation of the divine will. The Purana narrates that at the time of Radha’s birth, the entire universe was filled with a divine fragrance, and a celestial voice announced the arrival of the Supreme Goddess. The deities, sages, and celestial beings gathered to offer their respects, acknowledging Radha as the eternal consort of Krishna and the personification of divine love.

The Divine Signs at Her Birth

The Skanda Purana details several divine signs that accompanied Radha’s birth. The waters of the Yamuna River, which flowed near Barsana, became crystal clear, and the flowers in the forests of Vrindavan bloomed out of season. The sky was filled with a divine light that had no earthly source, and the sound of celestial music echoed through the heavens. These signs were seen as divine proclamations of Radha’s sacred identity and her pivotal role in Krishna’s divine play (Leela).

Radha’s Role in the Skanda Purana

In the Skanda Purana, Radha is depicted as the supreme embodiment of divine love, who plays an essential role in Krishna’s pastimes. Her birth is described as a cosmic event, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the divine play of the Supreme Lord. Radha’s love for Krishna is portrayed as the highest form of devotion, one that transcends all material desires and attachments. Through her love, Radha becomes an inseparable part of Krishna’s life, making her the most revered figure in the Vaishnavite tradition.

Radha’s Devotion to Krishna

Radha’s devotion to Krishna, as described in the Skanda Purana, is absolute and all-encompassing. She sees Krishna not just as her beloved but as the very essence of her existence. Her every thought, word, and deed is dedicated to Krishna, making her the epitome of Bhakti (devotion). The Purana emphasizes that it is through Radha’s love and devotion that Krishna’s pastimes attain their full glory. Her love is so pure that it not only unites her with Krishna but also inspires countless devotees to seek the path of Bhakti.

Radha as the Goddess of Devotion

In the Skanda Purana, Radha is often referred to as the Goddess of Devotion. She is not only the consort of Krishna but also the embodiment of the divine energy (Shakti) that drives the universe. Her role as the Goddess of Devotion makes her the ultimate guide for all souls who seek to develop a deep and personal relationship with the divine. Devotees believe that by worshipping Radha, they can attain the highest form of spiritual love, which is free from all selfish desires and rooted in pure, selfless devotion.

Celebrating Radha Ashtami

Radha Ashtami is celebrated with great devotion, particularly in Vrindavan and Barsana. The day is marked by various religious activities, including fasting, chanting, and offering prayers to Radha and Krishna. Temples dedicated to Radha and Krishna are beautifully decorated, and the deities are adorned with new clothes and jewelry. Devotees gather to sing bhajans and kirtans, praising the divine qualities of Radha and seeking her blessings for spiritual progress.

Fasting and Worship on Radha Ashtami

Fasting is an important aspect of Radha Ashtami celebrations. Devotees fast until midday, after which they offer a special feast to Radha and Krishna. The fast is seen as a way to purify the body and mind, making one more receptive to the divine energy of Radha Rani. During the fast, devotees engage in chanting the names of Radha and Krishna, reading scriptures, and meditating on Radha’s divine qualities. This practice helps devotees to deepen their connection with Radha and Krishna and to cultivate the qualities of love, devotion, and surrender in their own lives.

Decorating the Temples

Temples dedicated to Radha and Krishna are beautifully decorated on Radha Ashtami. The deities are bathed in sacred substances like milk, honey, and yogurt, and then dressed in new clothes and adorned with flowers and jewelry. These rituals are a way for devotees to express their love and devotion to Radha and Krishna, and to invite their divine presence into their lives. The entire day is filled with the sounds of kirtans, where devotees sing praises of Radha’s divine beauty and her loving relationship with Krishna.

Radha’s Influence in Devotees’ Lives

For devotees, Radha is not just a deity to be worshipped but a guide and inspiration in their spiritual journey. Her love and devotion to Krishna serve as a model for how devotees should approach their relationship with the divine. By following in the footsteps of Radha, devotees learn to cultivate selfless love, humility, and dedication in their own lives.

Radha’s Role in Bhakti Yoga

In Bhakti Yoga, Radha is considered the supreme devotee, whose love for Krishna is the ultimate expression of devotion. Her life and actions are a perfect example of how one can achieve spiritual perfection through love and devotion. Devotees who follow the path of Bhakti Yoga look to Radha as their guide, seeking to develop the same level of devotion and selflessness in their relationship with the divine. By worshipping Radha, devotees hope to attain the same level of spiritual realization and union with Krishna.

Conclusion

Radha Ashtami, as described in the Skanda Purana, is a celebration of the sacred birth of Srimati Radharani, the supreme embodiment of divine love and devotion. Her life and love for Krishna continue to inspire millions of devotees around the world. Through the rituals, prayers, and festivities associated with Radha Ashtami, devotees deepen their understanding of divine love and devotion. They seek Radha’s blessings to develop a pure heart, free from material desires, and to experience the joy of loving and serving Krishna. As we honor Radha on this sacred day, we are reminded of the transformative power of love and devotion in our spiritual journey.

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