The Legend of Shankhasura
In ancient times, there was a demon named Shankhasura who was so terrifying that even the devas (gods) hid from him in a cave on Mount Meru. Unaware of their hiding place, Shankhasura devised a plan to go to Satya Loka and destroy the personified Vedas. He believed that without the Vedas, the devas would lose their potency, allowing him to reign supreme.
The Vedas Dissolve
When the personified Vedas learned of Shankhasura’s approach, they dissolved themselves into the water to avoid being destroyed. Frustrated, Shankhasura searched all underwater caves and mountains but could not find the Vedas.
The Devas Seek Vishnu’s Help
Seizing this opportunity, the devas approached the milk ocean to seek Lord Vishnu’s help. They were cautious because it was the last month of the rainy season, a time when the Lord takes rest. They thought, “If we abruptly wake Him, He might be angry. Let us chant Hare Krishna so He wakes up happy.”
The Devas’ Devotional Chanting
The devas began to chant: Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare
Vishnu’s Blessing
Lord Kshirodaksaya Vishnu woke up, delighted by the devas’ chanting. He said, “On this thithi, in this month, whatever Krishna conscious or spiritual activities are performed, I will give 100 times the benefit.” This proclamation established the month of Damodara as extraordinarily auspicious.
The Significance of the Month of Damodara
According to the Skanda Purana and other Puranas, offering a lamp to the deities during the month of Damodara brings thousands of times the usual blessings, and other spiritual activities receive 100 times the benefit. Offering a lamp is especially auspicious, capable of liberating one’s forefathers.
Encouragement for Devotees
Given these immense spiritual benefits, devotees are encouraged to chant and engage in Krishna conscious activities during this special month. Offering a lamp to the deities is particularly emphasized for its profound spiritual impact.
Moral of the Story
The story of Shankhasura and the devas highlights the power of devotional chanting and the extraordinary blessings available during the month of Damodara. By engaging in spiritual activities, especially offering a lamp to the deities, devotees can receive multiplied benefits and spiritual elevation.
Reflection
- Devotional Chanting:
- The devas’ chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra illustrates the power of devotional service and its ability to please the Lord.
- Special Blessings:
- The month of Damodara offers unique opportunities for spiritual advancement, with activities performed during this time receiving multiplied benefits.
- Offering Lamps:
- Offering a lamp to the deities during this month is highly auspicious and can liberate one’s ancestors, emphasizing the significance of this simple yet powerful act of devotion.
Conclusion
The month of Damodara is a time of immense spiritual opportunity. By engaging in devotional activities and offering lamps to the deities, devotees can receive extraordinary blessings and progress in their spiritual journey.
Prayer
Let us pray for Lord Damodara’s grace to continue and advance in spiritual life during this auspicious month:
namo deva damodarananta vishno prasida prabho duhkha jalaabdhi-magnam krpa-drshti-vrshyaati-dinam bataanu- grhaanesha maam ajnam edhyakshi-drshyah
“O Supreme Godhead, I offer my obeisances unto You. O Damodara! O Ananta! O Vishnu! O master! O my Lord, be pleased upon me. By showering Your glance of mercy upon me, deliver this poor ignorant fool who is immersed in an ocean of worldly sorrows, and become visible to my eyes.”
