Paush Amavasya: Sacred Festival of Self-Purification, Worship, and Charity

In Indian culture, the day of Amavasya (new moon) holds great spiritual and religious importance. This day offers us a chance for self-reflection, peace, and devotion to God. Among all the Amavasyas throughout the year, Paush Amavasya holds a special place. Despite the absence of the moon, this day symbolizes new beginnings and self-purification.

According to mythological beliefs, the worship, fasting, and charity performed on this day fill one’s life with happiness, peace, and prosperity. In the Sanatan tradition, it is considered the best time to give a new direction to one’s life and fulfill one’s duties towards society.

When is Paush Amavasya in 2025?

The auspicious time (shubh muhurat) for Paush Amavasya will begin on 19 December 2024 at 4:59 AM and will end the next day on 20 December 2025 at 7:12 AM. According to the rising date (udayatithi), Paush Amavasya will be observed on 19 December.

Significance of Paush Amavasya

It is also called “Mokshadayini Amavasya” (the Amavasya that grants liberation). This day is considered highly auspicious for the peace of the ancestors’ souls. It is believed that bathing in holy rivers and pilgrim sites on this day frees a person from sins.

As stated in the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita:
“Na hi jñānena sadṛśaṁ pavitramiha vidyate.”
Meaning, there is no path to purity greater than knowledge and self-purification. Paush Amavasya leads us towards this purity and inner peace.

Meaning of Worship and Devotion

On Paush Amavasya, worship and devotion hold great importance. On this day, one should purify body and mind and worship God.

• Holy Bathing: Bathing in sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, or others is considered auspicious. It purifies both body and mind.
  
• Offering to Ancestors (Tarpan): Offering water to ancestors and seeking their blessings on this day brings special results.
  
• Worship of Lord Surya (Sun God): Sun worship holds special significance during the Paush month. Offer Arghya (water) to Lord Surya to express gratitude and receive blessings.

Donation on Mokshadayini Amavasya

Charity is an essential part of Indian tradition. It is considered the highest act of dharma (righteousness) and humanity. By giving charity on Paush Amavasya, one earns special merit (punya). Feeding the hungry is considered the greatest virtue. Along with feeding the needy, giving warm clothes and blankets to the poor brings inner satisfaction.

As stated in the scriptures:
“Dānaṁ hi paramaṁ dharmaṁ.”
Meaning, that charity is the greatest dharma.

Why Help the Poor and Needy?

The festival of Paush Amavasya gives us the message of compassion and kindness. It provides an opportunity to help those sections of society who are poor, distressed, and helpless.

• Importance of Service: “Seva paramo dharmaḥ.” Meaning, service is the greatest religion.
  • Positive Energy: Helping the needy brings positivity and peace into our lives.

Things to Donate on Paush Amavasya

On Paush Amavasya, donating food is considered the best. By donating, you can participate in projects like feeding the poor and needy through Narayan Seva Sansthan and become a partaker of merit.

Paush Amavasya is not just a festival but an opportunity to fill our lives with spirituality and positivity. This day gives us the message of self-purification, devotion to God, and helping others. On this sacred occasion, let us purify our mind, speech, and actions, receive the blessings of our ancestors, and help those in need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When is Paush Amavasya in 2025?
A: In 2025, Paush Amavasya will be observed on 19 December.

Q: Which deity is Paush Amavasya dedicated to?
A: Paush Amavasya is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Q: What should be donated on Paush Amavasya?
A: On Paush Amavasya, one should donate food, clothes, and meals to the needy.