Suryashtakam
Suryashtakam is a sacred Hindu hymn dedicated to Lord Surya, the Sun God. It is composed of eight verses (Ashtakam means eight), each praising Surya Dev’s divine attributes, immense power, and benevolence. Reciting Suryashtakam is believed to bring health, prosperity, and success while removing obstacles and negative energies.
This hymn is often chanted by devotees to seek blessings for good health, knowledge, and spiritual enlightenment. It is especially beneficial for those facing issues related to the Sun in their astrological charts, as per Vedic astrology.
Meaning of the Word “Suryashtakam”
The word Suryashtakam is derived from two Sanskrit words:
- Surya (सूर्य) – Refers to the Sun God.
- Ashtakam (अष्टकम्) – A composition consisting of eight verses.
Thus, Suryashtakam is an eight-verse prayer glorifying Lord Surya and his divine qualities.
Suryashtakam English
ādidēva namastubhyaṃ prasīda mabhāskara
divākara namastubhyaṃ prabhākara namōstutē
saptāśva radha mārūḍhaṃ prachaṇḍaṃ kaśyapātmajaṃ
śvēta padmadharaṃ dēvaṃ taṃ sūryaṃ praṇamāmyahaṃ
lōhitaṃ radhamārūḍhaṃ sarva lōka pitāmahaṃ
mahā pāpa haraṃ dēvaṃ taṃ sūryaṃ praṇamāmyahaṃ
traiguṇyaṃ cha mahāśūraṃ brahma viṣṇu mahēśvaraṃ
mahā pāpa haraṃ dēvaṃ taṃ sūryaṃ praṇamāmyahaṃ
bṛṃhitaṃ tējasāṃ puñjaṃ [tējapūjyaṃ cha] vāyu mākāśa mēva cha
prabhuṃ cha sarvalōkānāṃ taṃ sūryaṃ praṇamāmyahaṃ
bandhūka puṣpasaṅkāśaṃ hāra kuṇḍala bhūṣitaṃ
ēka chakradharaṃ dēvaṃ taṃ sūryaṃ praṇamāmyahaṃ
viśvēśaṃ viśva kartāraṃ mahātējaḥ pradīpanaṃ
mahā pāpa haraṃ dēvaṃ taṃ sūryaṃ praṇamāmyahaṃ
taṃ sūryaṃ jagatāṃ nādhaṃ jnāna vijnāna mōkṣadaṃ
mahā pāpa haraṃ dēvaṃ taṃ sūryaṃ praṇamāmyahaṃ
sūryāṣṭakaṃ paṭhēnnityaṃ grahapīḍā praṇāśanaṃ
aputrō labhatē putraṃ daridrō dhanavān bhavēt
āmiṣaṃ madhupānaṃ cha yaḥ karōti ravērdhinē
sapta janma bhavēdrōgī janma karma daridratā
strī taila madhu māṃsāni hastyajēttu ravērdhinē
na vyādhi śōka dāridryaṃ sūryalōkaṃ sa gachChati
iti śrī śivaprōktaṃ śrī sūryāṣṭakaṃ sampūrṇaṃ
Benefits of Reciting Suryashtakam
Chanting Suryashtakam daily, especially during sunrise, is said to provide numerous benefits:
- Health Benefits: Surya Dev is considered the source of life and energy. His blessings can cure diseases, improve immunity, and promote overall well-being.
- Mental Clarity and Intelligence: Regular recitation enhances concentration, memory, and wisdom. Students and professionals can benefit from Surya’s divine guidance.
- Spiritual Growth: Worshipping Surya removes ignorance and brings enlightenment, paving the way for self-realization.
- Success and Prosperity: Surya grants courage, determination, and leadership qualities, which are essential for achieving success in life.
- Astrological Benefits: Those with a weak or afflicted Sun in their horoscope can gain relief by chanting Suryashtakam regularly.
Best Time and Method to Chant Suryashtakam
- Ideal Time: The best time to chant Suryashtakam is during sunrise, facing the east.
- Recommended Place: A clean and quiet place, preferably near a temple or an open space where the Sun is visible.
- Rituals: Taking a bath before recitation, offering water (Arghya) to the Sun, and chanting with devotion increases the benefits.
