INVC NEWS
New Delhi : The Shani Dev reigns as the deity of justice, his influence resonating across karma’s intricate fabric. Saturdays, earmarked for Shani Dev’s worship, hold special reverence, aligning with his role in dispensing the consequences of human actions. Amid the diverse practices to counterbalance his potential adversities, one ritual stands out—the weekly offering of sesame oil. Beyond its surface tradition, this ritual carries profound astrological and religious implications that contribute to its enduring popularity.
Mythological Marvel: Hanuman and Shani Dev’s Encounter
Central to the genesis of this custom is the mythic interaction between Lord Hanuman and Shani Dev. Hanuman’s monumental endeavor to construct the Ramsetu, a bridge uniting lands, unfolded against a backdrop of impending demonic disruption. The impending clash between Hanuman’s devoted service to Lord Ram and the looming influence of Shani Dev’s energy sets the stage for the ritual’s origin story.
Hanuman’s Unwavering Devotion and Ethical Dilemma
As the embodiment of unwavering devotion, Hanuman faced a poignant dilemma. Committed to completing his sacred mission, he pledged his body to Shani Dev post his divine quest. Hanuman’s resolution epitomized his unwavering dedication to duty, evoking admiration and compassion.
Shani Dev’s Rigorous Test and Hanuman’s Resilience
Shani Dev’s determination remained unshaken, as he asserted the enforcement of cosmic laws. Mounting Hanuman’s form, he subjected the devoted deity to excruciating pain, testing Hanuman’s allegiance. Hanuman’s extraordinary response, employing colossal mountains to shatter his own bodily vessels, where Shani Dev held sway, marked a moment of spiritual transcendence.
Transformation Through Dedication: The Role of Sesame Oil
Shani Dev’s physical suffering reached a climax, prompting a shift in his perspective. Acknowledging the depth of Hanuman’s devotion, Shani Dev yielded, acknowledging Hanuman’s unparalleled commitment. This turning point birthed the tradition of anointing Shani Dev with sesame oil, a symbolic act that encapsulated veneration and appeasement.
Symbolic Depth: Decoding the Ritual’s Layers
Beneath the ritual’s veneer lies a tapestry of religious and astrological symbolism. Sesame, perceived as the divine residue of Lord Vishnu, metamorphoses into sanctified oil, a channel to the divine. In parallel, the significance of Shani Dev’s metal—lead—adds layers of meaning. Lead’s transformation into vermilion and its association with Mars enriches the ritual’s multifaceted nature.
Harnessing Sesame Oil’s Power
Sesame oil, colloquially referred to as “til oil,” embodies properties aligned with astrological dynamics. Its role in preserving iron and preventing rust poetically mirrors its capacity to counteract Saturn’s malefic influence. Offering sesame oil, thus, emerges as a symbolic means to mitigate Shani Dev’s inauspicious effects and court his favor.
Sustaining an Ancient Connection
Spanning generations, the tradition of offering sesame oil endures in temples and homes alike. This timeless practice reverberates with the energy of countless devotees, united in their pursuit of protection and blessings. The resonance of this ritual continues to harmonize devotion and cosmic forces.
Conclusion: A Sacred Thread Through Time
The offering of sesame oil to Shani Dev, while seemingly straightforward, resonates with intricate layers of meaning. It signifies the dynamic interplay between human devotion and celestial energies, offering solace, protection, and a conduit for aligning with the universe’s rhythm. As each devotee partakes in this ritual, they contribute to the tapestry of tradition and perpetuate a connection that transcends eras.
