In Sanatan Dharma there is a tradition of performing Achamana before the beginning of any puja, yagya, chanting, havan or religious ritual. According to religious texts, Aachman is not just a ritual but is considered a symbol of purification of body, speech and mind. It is believed that only worship done with a pure mind and a pure feeling reaches God, hence it is considered necessary to do Aachman before starting the worship.
Let us know what Aachman is, how it is done and what is its religious significance.
What is Aachman?
Achamana is a Vedic purification process in which pure water is consumed three times with special mantras. Through this the seeker takes a pledge of purity of his mind, words and deeds. After this, by touching the hands and senses with water, one is considered worthy of worship.
Why is Aachman done before puja?
According to religious beliefs, doing Aachman before sitting in puja purifies the person internally and externally. It is believed that this concentrates the mind, reduces negative thoughts and helps in concentrating during worship. It is also mentioned in the scriptures that religious activities done without purification do not yield full results.
correct method of achaman
First of all, sit at a clean place facing east or north. Keep pure water in a vessel. Take some water in the anjali (special part of the palm) of the right hand. While reciting the mantras, take water little by little three times. After this, touch your hands and senses with water. Then start the worship by meditating on God.
Popular mantras of Aachman
Generally the following mantras are chanted during Aachman –
Om Keshavaya Namah.
Om Narayanay Namah.
Om Madhavaya Namah.
With these three mantras, water is consumed three times respectively. There may be some variation in the method and mantras of Achamana in different Vedic traditions and sects.
Religious significance of Achaman
It is considered a symbol of purification of mind, speech and body. There is a process of preparing oneself for puja, chanting and havan. It is considered helpful in developing mental concentration and positive emotions. According to religious beliefs, this increases the sanctity of the worship and the devotee is able to worship with devotion.
Keep these things in mind while doing Aachman
Always use clean and pure water only. Do Aachman with a calm mind and devotion. It is also considered auspicious to wash hands and feet and wear clean clothes before worship. If following any particular Vedic tradition, adopt the mantra and method accordingly.
