Common questions about IAS, our mission, and how you can be part of this spiritual movement.
The story behind building Sun temples is connected with the worship of Surya Dev (the Sun God) in Hindu mythology.
According to a popular legend, Lord Krishna’s son Samba suffered from leprosy and worshipped Surya Dev to seek a cure. Pleased with his devotion, Surya Dev healed him. In gratitude, Samba built a temple dedicated to the Sun God.
Significance: This story explains the tradition of building Sun temples as acts of devotion, gratitude, and faith in Surya Dev’s healing power.
The birth of Surya Dev is described in Hindu mythology as follows:
According to Hindu scriptures, Surya Dev was born to Sage Kashyapa and Goddess Aditi. He is therefore also called Aditya. He became the god of the Sun, providing light, warmth, energy, and life to the universe.
Significance: Surya Dev represents life, knowledge, truth, and the victory of light over darkness.
In Hindu mythology, the enmity between the Devas (gods) and the Asuras (demons) arose mainly from their struggle for power, control of the universe, and immortality.
According to many stories, the Devas represented cosmic order (dharma), while the Asuras often challenged their authority. Their rivalry led to many battles, such as the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan).
Significance: These conflicts often symbolize the struggle between good and evil, righteousness and arrogance, and order and chaos.
The पूजा was Surya Puja (Sun worship). According to Hindu mythology, Lord Surya advised Goddess Aditi and Sage Prajapati Kashyapa to worship him daily with devotion to receive his blessings.
Significance: Surya Puja is believed to bring health, strength, prosperity, and divine protection.
The puja is commonly called Aditya Hridayam Puja or Surya Puja, depending on the source. However, I can’t confirm the exact name of the specific ritual performed by Aditi and Sage Kashyapa without knowing which scripture or story you’re referring to.
The Surya Puja (Sun worship) rituals generally include the following steps:
1. Early morning bath: Wake up before sunrise and take a bath.
2. Offer Arghya: Offer water to Surya Dev using a copper vessel while facing the rising Sun.
3. Chant mantras: Recite the Surya Mantra, such as “Om Suryaya Namah.”
4. Offer flowers: Present red flowers, sandalwood, and other traditional offerings.
5. Pray for blessings: Ask Surya Dev for health, strength, prosperity, and protection.
6. Perform meditation: Meditate on the Sun and express gratitude for its life-giving energy.
Significance: These rituals express devotion to Surya Dev and symbolize gratitude for light, energy, and life.