Ever wondered, why we offer water to the Sun: Surya Argya?

Surya Argya is one of those rituals, which is performed by at least 2 people in every Hinduism family, where Eight-in-ten Indians (79.8%) identify as Hindu, according to the country’s 2011 census.

On offering water to the Sun, it is believed that we are purifying our soul and offering ourselves to him. It is observed as a way to cleanse oneself of impurities and sins similar to the way the sun’s rays disperse darkness and bring light to the universe.

Scientific logic of Surya Argya

As we look into the sunlight through the water falling down the container’s rim, our eyesight improves and also reduces the chances of cataracts.

The sunlight splits into 7 colors of the rainbow. When we gaze through the stream of water falling from the vessel, the dispersed light enters our body and balances the seven chakras, from crown to root chakra. The Chakras are believed to be centers of energy within the human body. These energy centers are thought to play a significant role in physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Sunlight in the morning is a natural vitamin D provider and can help alleviate any deficiencies in this essential nutrient. Walking or standing barefoot is an excellent exercise to keep our joints healthy.

Religious logic of Surya Argya

According to the storyline outlined in the Garuda Purana, there exist 30 crores of demons referred to as Mandehas, encircling the sun, attempting to engulf it during sunrise. Thus, by presenting the argya to the sun, we are actively engaged in actions to dispel these demons. In this context, these demons symbolize the inner evils within us, and by performing argya, we are safeguarding our souls. Mandehas represent the mind and body, which obscure the inner Sun or Atman within us. During the morning and evening, our mind, body, and senses can become turbulent. Therefore, we require spiritual practice and prayers to calm them and attain inner enlightenment.

Engaging in Surya Argya during the early morning serves as a motivating factor to rise and begin the day early. Initiating one's day with this practice can infuse a substantial dose of positivity into the individual's mind and body.

The human body contains various energy centres. As we offer water to the Sun while reciting the Mantra, the water becomes energized. Upon touching this energized water to our body, it activates these energy points, resulting in a substantial boost of vitality and rejuvenation for both the body and mind.

The procedure of performing Surya Argya

1. First and foremost, take a bath and clean the body.

2. Take a copper or brass vessel filled with water; add kumkum or red sandalwood, rice, and a red flower to it.

3. As we offer water to the sun, gaze upon the sun's rays through the flowing stream of water.

4. Pour the water in three tranches and try to discern the image of the Sun in the water.

5. Afterwards, touch the charged water and place our hands on our forehead, eyes, and throat. The energized water will have a profound effect on these organs.

6. While making the offering, we can repeat the chant "Om Suryaye Namaha."

7. Be mindful not to step on the water offered to the Sun.

8. It's advisable not to consume any food before performing Surya Argya.

9. After completion, it's beneficial to recite the Aditya Hridaya Stotram. Please find it here: Aditya Hridya Stotram

According to the Vedas, the water poured onto the ground as an offering, known as Argya, transforms into stones, symbolically defeating the inner demons within us and liberating our souls. In a convergence of science, astrology, Vedic wisdom, and religion, the Sun is universally acknowledged as one of the most potent deities. Worshiping the Sun is believed to bestow abundance in all aspects of life.