Importance of ‘Swaha’ in Hawan: A Religious and Mythological Perspective
Havan is a religious ritual, which holds a special place in Hindu religion. It is considered an integral part of worship and yagya. During Havan, offerings are made in the fire and the word ‘Swaha’ is chanted with every offering. This word sounds simple, but there are deep religious and mythological beliefs hidden behind it. Let us know what ‘Swaha’ means and why it is said in Havan.
Importance of Havan and ‘Swaha’
The purpose of Havan is to purify the environment, obtain the blessings of the Gods, and bring happiness and peace in a person’s life. The word ‘Swaha’ is spoken while offering fire to the fire in Havan. It is considered a tradition since ancient times, which is still followed in abundance even today. Havan not only causes physical and mental peace, but it also spreads positive energy in the home and society.
The pronunciation of ‘Swaha’ completes the process of Havan and this word serves to convey the message or blessings to the Gods after the offering. It is believed that with this word the offering of Havan gets absorbed in the fire and reaches the Gods.
Mythological and religious significance of Swaha
According to mythology, the word ‘Swaha’ is related to the wife of Agnidev. Swaha was the daughter of Daksh Prajapati, who was married to Agnidev. It is seen as a religious belief that Agnidev accepts the offerings of Havan only through Swaha. For this reason, when we offer sacrifice in Havan, we pronounce ‘Swaha’ after that.
Additionally, according to another legend, Lord Shri Krishna had given a boon to Swaha that every offering of Yagya and Havan would be given in his name only. For this reason, ‘Swaha’ is said with every offering. This serves the purpose of taking the Havan offering to Lord Krishna and other deities.
What is the meaning of ‘Swaha’?
‘Swaha’ means ‘to deliver in the right way’ in Sanskrit. This word symbolizes the right way to deliver the offering to the gods. According to another belief, Agnidev and Swaha had three sons—Pavaka, Pavaman and Shuchi. This story also makes it more clear the importance of saying ‘Swaha’ during Havan. The pronunciation of this word symbolizes that the oblation has been properly offered to the gods through fire.
