Abishekam - The Scientific Insights

In the Agamas (ancient sacred texts), it is stated that among the 16 types of ritual offerings (Soṭasa Upacāras) made in temples, Abishekam is regarded as the most important and powerful. The term Abishekam, known in Tamil as Thirumuzhukku, involves the offering of various substances to the deity. Our ancestors initially used 26 different substances for this ritual, though the number was later reduced to 18. Today, most temples perform Abishekam using just 12 substances.

Typically, after a temple opens in the early morning and the Tirupalli Ezhuchi (the first prayer of the day) is completed, Abishekam and worship rituals are carried out. Many devotees are unaware of the significance of Abishekam, which is actually central to temple rituals.

The 12 substances commonly used in Abishekam are:

1. Sesame oil (Ellu ennai)
2. Panchagavya (Five products of the cow)
3. Panchamirtham (Five nectars)
4. Ghee (Neyy)
5. Milk (Paalu)
6. Curd (Thayir)
7. Honey (Thene)
8. Sugarcane juice (Karumbu saaru)
9. Fruit juice (Pazha rasam)
10. Coconut water (Ilanir)
11. Sandalwood paste (Chandhanam)
12. Water (Thanni)

Why Different Substances for Abishekam?

The power of a deity’s idol, or Moolavar, is directly linked to the Abishekam performed, both in terms of quantity and quality. This truth was discovered by our ancestors long before the Sangam period, which is why they placed great importance on the Abishekam ritual. They also made sure that lands were allocated for temples so the necessary materials could be obtained without any hindrance.

Although there are many types of Abishekam, Maha Abishekam, Anna Abishekam, and Sangha Abishekam are considered the most powerful. According to the Agama texts, the duration of an Abishekam should be 24 minutes. However, in some temples, the ritual may last up to 48 minutes (2 Nalikai).

Not only the duration but also the substances used in Abishekam are categorized as follows:

• Sesame oil (for comfort)
• Panchagavya (for purification and removal of sins)
• Rice flour (for prosperity)
• Turmeric powder (for auspiciousness)
• Fresh cow's milk (for nourishment)
• Curd (for wealth)
• Honey (for sweetness in life)
• Ghee (for spiritual growth)
• Indian gooseberry powder (for health)
• Sugarcane juice (for vitality)
• Coconut water (for purity)
• Sandalwood paste (for fragrance and mental peace)

In earlier times, devotees were not allowed to witness the Abishekam to the main deity directly. They were only permitted to see specific types of Abishekam such as Sandalwood Abishekam, Vibhuti Abishekam, and Kalasha Abishekam. In some temples, followers are still not allowed to observe any form of Abishekam, although today many temples allow devotees to watch Paal Abishekam (milk offering) and others.

For instance, in Thiruvannamalai, devotees can witness all the Abishekam rituals performed for Lord Shiva, as it is believed that the idol exudes immense spiritual power during these rituals.

Scientific Insights into Abishekam

The idol in the temple is believed to possess a cosmic energy that is enhanced during Abishekam. When Abishekam is performed, the idol radiates divine energy, which is doubled. Recent studies by ancient scientists have confirmed that the materials used in Abishekam, including herbs and mantras, have a significant effect on the energy emitted from the idol.

In older temples, the idols were made from rare herbs, and under these idols, mantra plates were placed, which further empowered the Abishekam. These mantras and herbs help emit higher energy during Abishekam.

Researchers from the Para Shakti Research Institute have found that when milk, curd, sandalwood, and water are used for Abishekam, the idol’s capacity to conduct electrical energy increases. They also discovered that the atmospheric conditions inside the sanctum (garbhagriha) change significantly, with rising ionization and moisture levels, thereby enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.

The increased moisture in the air during Abishekam leads to faster light transmission, allowing positive energies to spread and affect the devotees present. This is why devotees often feel spiritually uplifted during or after the ritual.

When a guru chants mantras like Om, the energy from these words resonates with the idol, causing a powerful surge of divine energy. It is believed that these vibrations directly impact the devotee's physical and mental state, fostering rejuvenation and spiritual progress.

When visiting temples, performing Abishekam using these materials can bring numerous benefits, from good health to spiritual growth. Devotees are encouraged to participate in these sacred practices and experience their spiritual and material rewards.

Wishing all devotees the best in their spiritual journeys through the blessings of Abishekam. May you achieve prosperity, health, and peace through these rituals!