Astha SangrahASTHA SANGRAHhttps://asthasangrah.comSaphala Ekadashi
Saphala Ekadashi is observed on Pausha Krishna Ekadashi, kept with the wish for success in one's endeavors and for every effort to bear fruit.
This Ekadashi falls a few days before Makar Sankranti. Check a local panchang for the exact date.
Significance of Saphala Ekadashi
According to legend, Prince Lumpak, son of King Mahishmat, was of extremely wicked conduct, so much so that his enraged father banished him from the kingdom. Living in the forest, Lumpak turned to theft and other misdeeds, yet some reverence for his father and Lord Vishnu still remained in his heart.
On the night of Pausha Krishna Ekadashi, Lumpak, overcome with severe cold and hunger, climbed a Peepal tree out of fear of wild animals, which happened to stand near a temple of Lord Vishnu. Due to fear and weakness, he could not eat, and stayed awake through the night out of fear.
In this way, unknowingly, both the Ekadashi fast and the night vigil were completed by Lumpak. Lord Vishnu was pleased even by this unintentional observance, and granted him a pure heart and his father's kingdom once more. Lumpak went on to become an ideal and righteous king. For this reason, Saphala Ekadashi is regarded as an especially fruitful vow, one that grants merit even when observed unknowingly.
How Saphala Ekadashi Is Celebrated
Devotees bathe in the morning and take the vow, observing a fruit-based fast through the day. Lord Vishnu is worshipped, and the legend of Saphala Ekadashi is heard.
The night is spent in vigil with bhajan-kirtan, and there is a tradition of offering ber (jujube), coconut, betel nut, and other fruits to Lord Vishnu. The fast is broken the next day, on Dwadashi, within the scripturally prescribed Parana muhurat.
This vow is observed especially with the wish for success in beginning new endeavors, progress in business, or an important effort, and the legend of Prince Lumpak is regarded as symbolizing how an effort made with an underlying reverence succeeds even unknowingly.
Saphala Ekadashi Puja Vidhi
Bathe in the morning, take the vow, and observe a fruit-based fast. Worship Lord Vishnu, listen to the legend of Saphala Ekadashi, and offer ber and other fruits. Keep a night vigil, and the next day, on Dwadashi, break the fast.
About Saphala Ekadashi
Saphala Ekadashi is the vow observed on Pausha Krishna Ekadashi for success in one's endeavors. This page covers the vow's significance, the legend of Prince Lumpak, and the vidhi for observing it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is Saphala Ekadashi observed?
This vow is observed every year on Pausha Krishna Ekadashi, a few days before Makar Sankranti.
What is the legend of Prince Lumpak?
Prince Lumpak, banished by his father for wicked conduct, unknowingly ended up observing the Ekadashi fast and night vigil out of fear and weakness, and as a result, Lord Vishnu granted him a pure heart and his kingdom once more.
Why is Saphala Ekadashi named so?
'Saphala' means 'fruitful', this vow is believed to bring success and make every effort bear fruit, which is why it is named Saphala Ekadashi.
Is a vow observed unknowingly also fruitful?
According to the legend of Prince Lumpak, even an Ekadashi fast and vigil that happens unknowingly, out of fear or circumstance, can please Lord Vishnu, which is why this vow's glory is regarded as especially significant.