The Spiritual Significance of Sesame Oil in Hinduism and Its Health Benefits

For centuries, Hindus have revered the sesame seed not only for its culinary and medicinal properties but also for its spiritual significance. In the mythological context, the black sesame seed is said to be a byproduct of Lord Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu trinity. Since Vishnu is the subtle being and the creator in his subtle form, it can be argued that the black sesame seed appeared in our world when the heat of creation was sufficient to sustain complex organisms.

When intertwined with the rich spiritual tradition of Hinduism, black sesame oil becomes more than just an edible ingredient; it is a vessel of divine reverence. This can be seen in various rituals and practices within the religion. For instance, in Hindu scriptures like the Garuda Purana, it is mentioned that if one places a dying person on a mattress of Durva grass and black sesame, with a tulsi plant and a Shaligram nearby, the person is more likely to achieve Moksha – the ultimate state of being.

Black Sesame Oil in Ancestral Worship and Rituals

Sesame is frequently used in funerary practices and rituals dedicated to ancestors. During the ancestral month or before Durga Puja, sesame is offered as daily food to pitras (ancestors). Hindu beliefs claim that the ancestral spirits accept food very easily in this form, and it is not contaminated by negative forces. Hence, they enjoy this food. Similarly, black sesame is used in black magic and tantric practices to ward off evil energies.

Utilization in Astrology

Always looking for cosmic solutions, Hindu astrology has incorporated sesame and its oil into various rituals. In certain astrological practices, sesame oil is used to appease Saturn, which is associated with challenges and obstacles. Here are two rare methods:

Method 1: Place a plate of sesame oil on a Saturday and see your reflection in it before donating the oil. Repeat this process for 8 Saturdays. Method 2: Light a lamp with sesame oil under a Peepal tree during twilight on every Saturday.

While these methods might seem unscientific to modern readers, the spiritual significance and practical benefits of sesame oil in Hinduism are undeniable. Its rich mineral and vitamin content, coupled with its stability and hardiness, make it a popular choice in various rituals and offerings.

Health Benefits of Sesame Oil

Like its spiritual counterpart, sesame oil also has numerous health benefits. Rich in minerals and vitamins, sesame oil is often packed more densely than many other food items. It is also known for its stable and hardy nature, making it a preferred choice in kitchen and daily practices.

However, in today's world, we tend to avoid such goodness due to our preconceived notions and superstitions. It is essential to learn and understand the noble causes behind these traditions and practices. The significance of sesame in puja, as mentioned in Hindu religious texts, highlights the importance of this humble oil in our daily lives.

Conclusion

Thus, sesame oil, from being a simple ingredient in cooking to playing a role in some of the most important spiritual and health practices, holds a unique and significant place in Hinduism. Whether in an ancestral worship, a ritual, or simply as a nutritional supplement, sesame oil is a symbol of divine connection and healing. By embracing it, we can honor our traditions and access the wellness and spiritual benefits it provides.