Spirituality of Raksha Bandhan : Eternal bond of liberation & protection

Prof Dr Jayadeba Sahoo *

As the scent of incense fills the air and joyous laughter echoes through the streets, it can only mean one thing - Raksha Bandhan is here! This heartwarming festival, also known as "Rakhi," is a beautiful celebration of the unique bond between siblings. Raksha Bandhan holds a special place in the hearts of millions, transcending religions and cultures.

Let's dive into the meaning, origin, and significance of Raksha Bandhan, and discover why this festival is cherished by so many. Love, care and protection are needed by all human beings. The auspicious festival of 'Raksha Bandhan' celebrated in the month of Shravan (August) on full moon day, commemorates the sacred loving relationship between brothers and sisters.

On this day sisters tie a decorative thread on the wrist of their brothers, apply a tilak on their forehead and pray for their well-being who in return promise to take care of and protect the sisters.

Now what is the esoteric meaning of this ritual?

The spiritual significance of Raksha Bandhan is when one takes a sacred divine vow of purity with the God, to live a life of purity in thoughts, words and actions. This sacred thread called a “rakhi”, tied on the right hand, is only symbolic and it is no more than a gentle reminder that we must protect ourselves spiritually from the vices less we commit spiritual suicide in bondage of materialism.

This life of purity and the freedom from material bondage elevates the soul to its original pure religion of peace and silence. Raksha Bandhan is not an isolated festival, but it is an activity in a major event in the world cycle, for the purification of all souls as well as the elements. This event begins with Shiva Ratri when God incarnates on earth to destroy the vices at the end of every cycle of 5000 years.

The Religious aspect of Raksha Bandhan is a promise by a brother for the protection of a sister. This is done to the extent of defending her honor even at the expense of his life. Here, the sister shows respect to the brother in the form of adoration or worship.

The sacred thread of Rakhi, tied to a brother’s wrist by the affectionate sister, is the ceremonial expression of her pious hope and wish that her brother be guided by spiritual vision. This symbolic thread is a token of remembrance and inspiration for the brother. History is replete with examples where brothers died in defense of their sister’s honor, purity, chastity or lustful advances made against her will.

In pains, however, to say that humanity has lost its moral and spiritual bearings and society has become so degraded and impure, that not even a mother, daughter or sister is protected from the criminal eyes of even close family relations. The sacred filial covenant of spiritual love is in real danger as promiscuity is beamed electronically into your sacred homes with or without your permission, much to the delight of the policy makers.

The Spiritual Significance of the “Rakhi”. The physical “rakhi” tied on the wrist is a reminder that all souls are the children of the One Supreme Father, making us all brothers, the concept of “brotherhood”.

It is a reminder of the “vow of purity” in thoughts, words and actions with the “Satguru Shiva”. Yellow rakhi represents newness, the freshness of spring, and the beginning of a new era, and it is the color of Saraswati, the world mother of purity.

Hence Raksha Bandhan is not to be taken lightly as a ritual or a mere ceremony, but it is to be taken as a “deed of covenant” with God. It is your insurance policy when you surrender body, mind and wealth.

How to tie a Spiritual Rakhi? Prepare yourself physically and mentally and sit in solitude preferably in the very early hours of the morning known as “Amrit Vela” also called Brahma Muhurat. Concentrate on Shiva, the Supreme Soul, and remember Him as your Supreme Spiritual Teacher, Protector, Companion, Support of Life and the Highest on High Supreme Father.

Then make a vow with Him to live a life of purity in thoughts, words, actions and relationships. This vow should be of your own free will and it is something you want to do, free from fear. Do not do it for the sake to please anyone, or for name, fame, appreciation and recognition.

In conclusion, the main aspect of the festival of Raksha Bandhan is therefore connected with the sacred vow of purity and a pledge to obtain and impart divine knowledge and attributes. Its origin is the confluence age and the purpose is the purification of all souls and transformation of the world.

It is important to protect your elevated conscience or divine intellect by not coming under the influence of anger, greed, arrogance, lust and attachment. When “need” turns into “greed”, believe it or not, you are on the highway to hell.

To lie, cheat, deceive or steal are sinful acts and are opposite to the elevated godly directions. To pledge a life of purity and live a life of sin is to commit spiritual suicide. You may deceive others and maybe yourself, but you cannot fool the God. The wages of sin accumulate hundredfold if you are knowledgeable compared to that of being ignorant of the consequences.

On this auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, Let'stake a moment for deep spiritual introspection and free yourselves from the bondage of greed, the lust for power and a slave of promiscuity and make God your eternal companion for true peace, happiness and prosperity.

I send you this Rakhi specially addressed to you;

God Shiva has come from Incorporeal World for the sake of entire universe!
This Rakhi is beyond evaluation in terms of monetary price;
This is filled with the blessings of happiness and peace.
Happy greetings on the auspicious festival of 'Raksha Bandhan'.
!!!!!!Om Shanti!!!!!