In Hinduism, where households are adorned with the idols of various deities, there exists a curious exception – the avoidance of installing the idol or picture of Shani Dev in homes. Shani Dev, the god of justice, is believed to bring both blessings and troubles, and the reasons behind this unique prohibition are deeply rooted in a captivating mythological tale.
The Significance of Worshipping Deities at Home
In the rich tapestry of Hindu rituals, the installation and worship of idols hold special significance. From Shiva-Parvati to Ganeshji, deities find a place of honor in homes and temples. However, Shani Dev stands apart, with devotees seeking his blessings exclusively in Shani temples.
The Mythological Tale: The Curse of Shani Dev
Legend has it that Shani Dev, immersed in devotion to Lord Krishna, once ignored his wife who sought his attention after giving birth to a child. Enraged by his neglect, she cursed Shani Dev, decreeing harm upon anyone upon whom his gaze fell. Realizing his mistake, Shani Dev apologized, but the curse could not be revoked.
The Perceived Danger in Shani Dev’s Gaze
The belief in the dangerous nature of Shani Dev’s gaze stems from this tale. To protect themselves from potential harm, people refrain from installing his idol or picture at home and restrict their worship to Shani temples. It is said that Shani Dev, out of remorse, perpetually bows his head to avoid causing harm.
Worshipping Shani Dev: A Temple Affair
Devotees of Shani Dev reserve Saturdays for temple visits, lighting lamps, and offering prayers. The tale serves as a cautionary reminder, and it is advised to only look at Shani Dev’s feet during worship, steering clear of direct eye contact to prevent the perceived malevolence of his gaze.
Intriguingly, this prohibition adds a layer of mystery to the worship practices surrounding Shani Dev, transforming his veneration into a unique and temple-centric affair.
