Knowledge Bank

Fulfilling Life's Three Debts Through Daily Duties

A human is born with three debts: Rishi Rina (debt to sages), Pitru Rina (debt to ancestors), and Deva Rina (debt to deities). To become free from these debts, scriptures prescribe daily duties. These include physical purification, Sandhyavandanam (daily prayers), Tarpana (rituals for ancestors), worship of deities, other daily rituals, and study of scriptures. Maintain cleanliness through physical purification, perform daily prayers through Sandhyavandanam, remember ancestors through Tarpana, worship deities regularly, follow other prescribed daily rituals, and gain spiritual knowledge through the study of scriptures. By adhering to these actions, we fulfill our spiritual esponsibilities.

What is the difference between a mantra and a prayer?

Mantras derive their power from the power of vibrations. They produce effects but need not have any literal meaning. Prayers are meaningful words addressed to Gods and produce results if said with faith and devotion.

या सा पद्मासनस्था विपुलकटितटी पद्मपत्राऽऽयताक्षी गम्भीरावर्तनाभिः स्तनभरनमिता शुभ्रवस्त्रोत्तरीया । लक्ष्मीर्दिव्यैर्गजेन्द्रैर्मणिगणखचितैः स्नापिता हेमकुम्भैः नित्यं सा पद्महस्ता मम वसतु गृहे सर्वमाङ्गल्य....

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