In Hinduism, Guru Brihaspati Vrat holds great significance. This fast is dedicated to Lord Brihaspati, also known as the planet Jupiter. Lord Brihaspati is considered the deity of wisdom, intellect, prosperity, and righteousness. Observing this fast resolves all types of difficulties in life, bringing peace, happiness, and wealth. It is especially observed by those facing financial difficulties, marital problems, or obstacles in acquiring knowledge.
Significance of the Vrat
Guru Brihaspati Vrat is observed on Thursdays. On this day, both Lord Vishnu and Lord Brihaspati are worshipped. Following the rules of the fast brings positive energy into one’s life. It is believed that observing this fast ensures success in all endeavors and ushers prosperity into life.
The Vrat Story
In ancient times, a poor Brahmin was extremely troubled by his poverty and misery. He constantly pondered how to make his life happy and prosperous. His wife shared these hardships with him. One day, the Brahmin said to his wife, “Our life has become very difficult. We should worship God so that our troubles come to an end.”
The Brahmin’s wife agreed, and they decided to worship Guru Brihaspati. They started observing the Thursday fast. The Brahmin set up a small altar at home for Lord Brihaspati and began worshiping daily with yellow flowers, turmeric, and jaggery. During the fast, both of them observed a day-long fast, wearing yellow clothes in the evening, and partaking of gram dal (chickpeas) and jaggery as prasad.
After some time, pleased with their devotion, Lord Brihaspati appeared in the Brahmin's home and said, “Dear devotee, I am pleased with your devotion. I am here to grant whatever you wish for.”
The Brahmin, folding his hands, said, “O Lord! I am very poor. Please remove my poverty and bless me with happiness and prosperity.” Lord Brihaspati blessed him and said, “Your fast will bear fruit. From today, happiness will return to your life. The path to prosperity has opened for you.”
With Lord Brihaspati’s blessings, the Brahmin’s life began to change. His financial condition improved, and his home was filled with peace, happiness, and prosperity.
Rules for the Vrat
Certain rules must be followed while observing the Guru Brihaspati Vrat. These rules should be followed with devotion and sincerity:
- Bathing and Cleanliness: Take a bath in the morning and wear clean yellow clothes. Keep the place of worship clean and auspicious.
- Puja Materials: Use yellow flowers, turmeric, gram dal, jaggery, bananas, and yellow clothes for the worship of Lord Brihaspati.
- Puja Method:
- Light a lamp before the idol or picture of Lord Vishnu and Lord Brihaspati.
- Offer yellow flowers, turmeric, and jaggery to Lord Brihaspati.
- Chant the mantra: “Om Graam Greem Graum Sah Guruve Namah.”
- Read the vrat katha and pray to Lord Brihaspati to fulfill your wishes.
- Food and Charity: Consume only yellow-colored food and avoid salt on this day. Donate gram dal, jaggery, and yellow clothes to the needy.
- Resolution: Take a pledge to observe the fast with devotion and adherence to the rules.
Another Vrat Story
According to another tale, a saint lived in a town and regularly worshiped Guru Brihaspati. Impressed by his devotion, Lord Brihaspati blessed him with immense wisdom and prosperity. The townspeople began to praise him and sought his guidance for their problems. The saint explained the significance of the Guru Brihaspati Vrat and taught them how to observe it.
A poor woman from the town followed the saint’s advice and started observing the Thursday fast. She wore yellow clothes, offered turmeric and gram dal, and fasted throughout the day. Gradually, prosperity entered her home, and her life became joyful.
Benefits of the Vrat
Observing the Guru Brihaspati Vrat brings the following benefits:
- Financial Prosperity: Improves financial conditions.
- Happiness in Married Life: Resolves issues in relationships and strengthens bonds.
- Wisdom and Knowledge: Beneficial for students and scholars.
- Spiritual and Religious Benefits: Brings positive energy into life.
- Resolution of Difficulties: Eliminates all kinds of troubles and obstacles.
Method of Observing the Vrat
To reap the full benefits of this vrat, it must be observed systematically. The fast should be observed for at least 11 or 21 consecutive Thursdays.
- After a morning bath, worship Lord Brihaspati and Lord Vishnu.
- Use yellow flowers, turmeric, gram dal, and jaggery during the worship.
- Recite the katha and chant the mantra “Om Graam Greem Graum Sah Guruve Namah.”
- Donate food and clothes to the poor and needy.
- End the fast by consuming gram dal and jaggery as prasad.
The Guru Brihaspati Vrat brings peace, prosperity, and knowledge into one’s life. It is a simple yet effective vrat that fulfills desires when observed with devotion and discipline. With Lord Brihaspati’s grace, all obstacles in life are removed, and success is achieved in every endeavor. Hence, this vrat should be observed with utmost faith and dedication.