Tapta Mudra Dharana is a Vaishnava ritual where heated seals (tapta mudras) are placed on the body. This practice is mandated by shastra (scripture).
Significance and Symbols
Symbols Used: The mudras are Shankha (conch), Chakra (wheel), Gada (mace), and Padma (lotus), which are associated with Lord Srihari.
Timing: It is customary for all Vaishnavas to undergo this ritual on the first Ekadashi of Ashada Masa.
Purpose: The ritual is said to purify the body and cleanse one from past sins. Scientifically, it is believed to have a positive effect on the nervous system and build resistance against diseases.
Procedure
Placement of Symbols:
Right Arm: The Chakra (wheel) symbol.
Left Arm: The Shankha (conch shell) symbol.
Bridge Between Arms: The Gada (mace) symbol.
Chest: The Nandaka symbol.
Top of the Head: The Skull symbol.
Scriptural References
Sources: The practice of Tapta Mudra Dharana is explained in spiritual scriptures like the Rigveda, Padma Purana, Mahabharata, and Ayurveda Shastras.
Mantras: During the ritual, mantras are chanted. The meanings of these mantras are roughly as follows:
"Let the glow of Sudharashana remove all our ignorance."
"Let the sound of Paanchanjanya Shankha destroy all our accumulated sins and lead us on the path of Vishnu."
Spiritual Significance
Knowledge and Enlightenment: The light of knowledge (jnanagni) obtained from scriptures should sever the darkness of ignorance.
Omkaara Naada (Sound): The sound from the shankha (conch shell) should enlighten us, bestowing us with knowledge, devotion (bhakti), and detachment (vairagya).
In summary, Tapta Mudra Dharana is a significant Vaishnava ritual aimed at spiritual purification and physical well-being, deeply rooted in ancient scriptures and traditions.
