Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak: A Divine Hymn for Overcoming Obstacles

Chanting the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak, a sacred hymn dedicated to Lord Hanuman, invokes his divine protection and blesses you with inner strength and resilience. This powerful mantra is believed to dispel fears, ward off evil, and bring relief during times of adversity.

Understanding the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak is a group of eight verses that extol the virtues and powers of Lord Hanuman. Each verse describes a specific aspect of his divine nature and seeks his blessings.

Verse 1:
"Jnana Guna Sagar, Jai Hanumaan Gosai,
Krispa Bhakta Rama Chandra Ke Kaaj Savarai"

Meaning: O Lord Hanuman, you are an ocean of knowledge and devotion. You are always engaged in serving Lord Rama.

Verse 2:
"Ashta Siddhi Nava Nidhi Ke Data,
Asa Var Din Jana Ki Aas Puri Karata"

Meaning: You grant eight siddhis (supernatural powers) and nine nidhis (treasures). You fulfill the wishes and hopes of your devotees.

Verse 3:
"Sankat Te Hanuman Chudavai Maine,
Man Kram Bachan Dhyan Jo Lage Tiha Raine"

Meaning: Lord Hanuman protects me from all troubles. May my mind, speech, and actions always be dedicated to him.

Verse 4:
"Sab Sukh Lahen Hanuman Charan Ramate,
Naahin Kinha Kehi Sankat Katha Sunate"

Meaning: Those who worship Lord Hanuman's feet attain all happiness. They face no obstacles or hardships.

Verse 5:
"Bhoot Pret Pisach Nikat Nahi Aavahin,
Hanuman Chalisa Path Kare Sub Sukh Paavahin"

Meaning: Ghosts, demons, and evil spirits cannot approach those who recite the Hanuman Chalisa. They attain all happiness.

Verse 6:
"Jo Sat Baar Path Kare Hanuman Chalisa,
Hoye Siddhi Sakhi Gaave Sab Jag Disa"

Meaning: One who recites the Hanuman Chalisa 100 times achieves supernatural powers. The whole world witnesses this.

Verse 7:
"Hanuman Chalisa Tulsi Das Ji Ne Likha,
Jo Padhe Hanuman Bhaktan Ka Klesa Mithaa"

Meaning: This Hanuman Chalisa was composed by Tulsidas. Those who recite it as devotees of Hanuman will find their miseries alleviated.

Verse 8:
"Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak Jo Gaave,
Kaho Tulsi Das Ji Ki Jai Jai Kar Pave"

Meaning: One who sings the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak will find relief from all troubles. Tulsidas says, "May you attain victory."

Divine Legends and Stories Associated with the Ashtak

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak is closely associated with several divine legends and stories that illustrate Lord Hanuman's extraordinary powers and compassion.

Legend of Ramayana:
In the epic Ramayana, Lord Hanuman played a pivotal role in rescuing Sita, Lord Rama's wife, from the clutches of the demon king Ravana. He leaped across the ocean to Lanka, the kingdom of Ravana, and burnt the city down. His unwavering devotion and courage earned him the title of Sankat Mochan (Remover of Obstacles).

Story of Tulsidas:
The author of the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak, Tulsidas, was a devout worshiper of Lord Hanuman. It is said that during a time of great distress, he visited the Hanuman temple in Kashi and prayed fervently. Lord Hanuman appeared in his dream and dictated the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak to him.

Story of a Young Boy:
In a small village, a young boy was once possessed by an evil spirit. The villagers were desperate and approached the local Hanuman temple. They recited the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak with great faith, and miraculously, the boy was freed from the spirit's clutches.

How to Recite the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak

To experience the full benefits of the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak, it is important to recite it with devotion and sincerity. Here are some guidelines:

• Find a quiet place where you can focus without distractions.
• Sit or stand in a comfortable position.
• Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to calm your mind.
• Chant the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak aloud or silently, depending on your preference.
• Visualize Lord Hanuman standing in front of you, offering his protection.
• Repeat the mantra for as long as you feel guided.

Benefits of Reciting the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak

Devotees who regularly recite the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak experience numerous benefits, including:

• Protection from obstacles: Lord Hanuman's presence shields you from difficulties and adversity.
• Inner strength and resilience: The mantra infuses you with courage and determination to overcome challenges.
• Relief from fears: Chanting the hymn calms your mind and alleviates anxieties.
• Increased devotion: The mantra deepens your connection with Lord Hanuman and strengthens your faith.
• Physical and mental well-being: The mantra is believed to promote overall health and well-being.

Table 1: Stories Associated with the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak

Table 2: Benefits of Reciting the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak

Table 3: Comparison of Recitation Methods

FAQs

1. When is the best time to recite the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak?

You can recite the hymn any time you feel the need for protection or guidance. However, it is considered especially auspicious to recite it on Tuesdays, Saturdays, or during Hanuman Puja days.

2. How many times should I recite the ashtak?

There is no prescribed number of times. You can recite it as many times as you feel guided. However, reciting it 108 times is said to be particularly powerful.

3. Can I listen to the Hanuman Ashtak instead of reciting it myself?

Listening to the mantra can be beneficial, but it is considered more effective to recite it yourself as it involves active participation and deepens your connection with Lord Hanuman.

4. What is the significance of the number eight in the ashtak?

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak consists of eight verses, which represent Lord Hanuman's eight siddhis (supernatural powers). These powers include anima (becoming as small as an atom), laghima (becoming as light as a feather), and prapti (obtaining anything you desire).

5. Can I recite the ashtak if I am not a Hindu?

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak is a universal hymn that is open to all who seek Lord Hanuman's blessings, regardless of their religious background.

6. Is there a specific posture I should use while reciting the ashtak?

You can recite the hymn in any comfortable position, whether it be sitting, standing, or lying down. However, it is considered respectful to recite it with your palms joined and facing the east.

Conclusion

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak is a powerful and transformative hymn that offers solace, protection, and inner strength during difficult times. Reciting this mantra regularly can help you overcome obstacles, alleviate fears, and deepen your connection with the divine. Through its divine melodies and powerful verses, Lord Hanuman's blessings guide you on the path to spiritual growth and ultimate victory.