Why Do We Worship Lord of Medicine ‘Dhanvantari’ On Dhanteras?
During the festive time of Dhanteras, we worship Lord Dhanvantari, the deity who is seen as the foundation of Ayurveda and traditional Indian medicine.
This special day is chosen to honor him because it is believed that he emerged on this day during the churning of the ocean, holding a pot of nectar that grants health and immortality. We light diyas and pray to him to bless us with good health and to protect us from illness.
Who Is Lord Dhanvantari?
Lord Dhanvantari is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, symbolizing the healing aspect of the divine. He is pictured as a beautiful figure with four hands, carrying a conch, discus, a pot of the immortal nectar, and medicinal herbs. His image reminds us that health is a divine gift and that maintaining it is a sacred practice.
When Dhanteras comes around each year, it’s not just about buying gold, and new things; it’s also a day of prayer, faith, and respect.
People pray to Lord Dhanvantari for their family’s health, often by chanting the Dhanvantari mantra, which seeks his blessings for the eradication of all diseases and the promotion of well-being in the world.
Teachings of Lord Dhanvantari
The teachings of Lord Dhanvantari are profound yet straightforward. He taught us about Ayurveda, the science of life, which sees health as a balanced combination of body, mind, and spirit.
He advocated for a lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, herbal medicines, and a moral code of living that contributes to overall well-being.
He instructed sages, who then passed this valuable knowledge through generations, and it is compiled in foundational texts that guide traditional Indian medicine practices even today.
Significance Of Lord Dhanvantari In Medicine
In the realm of Indian medicine, Lord Dhanvantari’s influence is monumental. He is the beacon of holistic healing and preventive medicine, encouraging us to look at the root cause of diseases rather than just tackling the symptoms.
His principles are now finding a place in global wellness trends as people everywhere are seeking more natural ways to stay healthy.
The Legacy of Lord Dhanvantari
Lord Dhanvantari’s legacy is a living tradition that continues to inspire the world. Today, Ayurveda is not only a part of our cultural heritage but is also accepted and practiced globally.
It is seen as an alternative and complementary medicine, and thanks to various initiatives by the Indian government, Ayurveda is gaining even more prominence.
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How To Celebrate This Dhanteras 2023?
Remembering and celebrating Lord Dhanvantari is our way of acknowledging the wealth of knowledge he has given us, a knowledge that helps us live healthier, more balanced lives.
So, this Dhanteras, while we clean our homes and shop for the festival, let’s also take a moment to give thanks to the divine healer, Lord Dhanvantari, for his blessings on our health and well-being.
