Why Is Oil Offered To Shanidev
Hindus all across the world are familiar with the act of oil Abhishekam on idols of Shanidev on Saturdays. It is one of the most important rituals for millions of Hindu devotees, who visit Shani temples to pour oil on Shanidev’s murthi.
The Shanidev shirine at Shingnapur, Maharastra is the most prominent Shani temple in India. Tailabhishekam (the pouring of oil on Shanidev’sidol) at this legendary temple has great religious significance and is quite popular among devotees from all over India.
1. Once upon a time Lord Hanuman was offering prayers to Lord Rama and guarding the Rama Setu. Lord Shani came to the very location and asked Lord Hanuman to let him pass through the bridge and boasted about being a great God.
2. On hearing this, Lord Hanuman asked Shanidev not to bother him, as he was praying to his Lord Rama.
3. Shanidev was enraged by this and challenged Lord Hanuman to a fight. Lord Hanuman repeatedly told him not to disturb his prayers but Shanidev did not listen.
4. Lord Hanuman was angered and he extended his huge tail, wrapping it around the body of Shanidev. Then he swung his tail up and down, hitting Shanidev against the rocks with each swing.
5. Hanuman was injuring Shanidev but still continued praying to Lord Rama at the same time. When Hanuman looked at Shanidev, he apologized to Hanuman asked to be released.
6. Understanding that Shanidev really was sorry about his misdeed, Lord Hanuman forgave and released him. Lord Shani asked Hanuman for some oil in order to soothe his bruises.
7. Lord Hanuman gave him the oil and when Shanidev put the oil on his skin, his bruises were healed and his pain was gone. He was very happy and thanked Lord Hanuman for being kind.
8. Since then the practice of offering oil to Shanidev became prevalent amongst all Hindus. Most Hindus offer oil to appease Shanidev and to seek his blessings; especially on Saturdays.
9. It is believed that oil Abhishekam of Shanidev by a devotee protects the devotee against the ill effects caused by Shanidev in their lives. It also has several other positive benefits related to a person’s life.
by Saurav Majumdar
