Chanting mantras during a lunar eclipse is a common practice in Hinduism and some other spiritual traditions. The eclipse is considered an inauspicious period by many, and mantras are believed to help in nullifying its negative effects. If you want to chant mantras during a lunar eclipse, here are some options:
Mahamrityunjaya Mantra: It’s one of the oldest and most powerful Sanskrit mantras. It’s believed to be beneficial for mental, emotional, and physical health and to bestow longevity and immortality.
Mantra: ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम् उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान मृत्योर्मुक्षीय मामृतात्॥
Gāyatrī Mantra: This is one of the most universal of the Hindu mantras, invoking the universal Brahman as the principle of knowledge and the illumination of the primordial Sun.
Mantra: ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि धियो यो नः प्रचोदयात्॥
Chandra Mantra: Given that it’s a lunar eclipse, it might be fitting to chant the mantra dedicated to the Moon god, Chandra.
Mantra: ॐ सोम सोमाय नमः॥
Ashtakshara Mantra: This is the eight-syllable mantra dedicated to Lord Krishna.
Mantra: ॐ नमो नारायणाय॥
Guru Mantra: If you have a personal Guru or spiritual teacher, you can chant the Guru Mantra, invoking their guidance and grace.
Mantra: गुरुर ब्रह्मा गुरुर विष्णुर गुरुर देवो महेश्वरः। गुरु साक्षात परब्रह्मा तस्मै श्री गुरवे नमः॥
Shanti Mantra: It’s always a good idea to pray for peace, especially during inauspicious times.
Mantra: ॐ द्यौः शान्तिरन्तरिक्षं शान्तिः
पृथिवी शान्तिरापः शान्तिरोषधयः शान्तिः ।
वनस्पतयः शान्तिर्विश्वेदेवाः शान्तिर्ब्रह्म शान्तिः
सर्वं शान्तिः शान्तिरेव शान्तिः सा मा शान्तिरेधि ॥
॥ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः॥
It’s also recommended to perform charitable acts, meditate, and read sacred texts during the eclipse period.
Always remember to have a sincere heart and devotion while chanting. The vibration and the energy of the mantra are more important than just the literal words. Before beginning any spiritual or religious practices, it’s beneficial to consult with knowledgeable persons or spiritual guides familiar with the tradition.
