Shattila Ekadashi is observed on the eleventh day of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Magha. This sacred day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and holds special significance for donations, fasting, and service. According to religious beliefs, fasting and donating on this day help eliminate the sins of life and bring the blessings of the Divine.
Importance of Shattila Ekadashi
The name Shattila Ekadashi is linked to “til” (sesame seeds), which plays a major role in the rituals and donations of the day. According to the Puranas, Lord Vishnu holds sesame seeds in great reverence. Therefore, using and donating sesame seeds on this day brings spiritual purification, satisfaction, and liberation.
Scriptures state that worshiping Lord Vishnu and fasting on this day brings happiness, peace, and prosperity to one’s life. Additionally, this day has special importance for service and charity. Donating sesame-based food items and other materials to the needy on this day brings immense spiritual merit.
Significance of Donation on Shattila Ekadashi
Shattila Ekadashi is not just a day of fasting and worship, but also a day of service and charity. The use of sesame seeds and donating to the needy and underprivileged on this day has profound religious and scientific significance. The act of donating food on this day becomes a medium for spiritual advancement.
The glory of charity is described in many Hindu texts. Goswami Tulsidas Ji wrote in the Ramcharitmanas:
“प्रगट चारि पद धर्म के कलि महुँ एक प्रधान।
जेन केन बिधि दीन्हें दान करइ कल्यान॥.”
“The four steps of dharma (truth, compassion, penance, and donation) are famous, of which donation is the most prominent in Kali Yuga. No matter how or when it is given, donation always brings welfare.”
Helping the needy and helpless on Shattila Ekadashi is an extremely virtuous act. Feeding the poor and differently-abled on this day not only brings their blessings but also serves as a medium to receive Lord Vishnu’s divine grace.
Receive Lord Vishnu’s Blessings by Donating Food to Needy Children on this Sacred Day By donating food to needy children on Shattila Ekadashi, you can receive Lord Vishnu’s blessings.
