Tilak is an important religious and cultural tradition in Hinduism
Applying Tilak is an important religious and cultural tradition in Hinduism, which has many benefits. Applying Tilak not only brings spiritual benefits, but it also brings positivity, concentration and happiness and peace. There are both religious and scientific reasons behind applying Tilak.
Benefits of applying Tilak:
Spiritual benefits:
Applying Tilak is considered a powerful tool for spiritual awakening and peace of mind. It helps in increasing concentration during meditation and prayer.
Positivity:
Applying Tilak transmits positive energy and removes negative thoughts.
Concentration:
Applying sandalwood Tilak is believed to increase concentration and calm the mind.
Protection:
Tilak is believed to protect against negative energy and evil forces.
Respect:
Applying Tilak is a symbol of respect and honor.
Health:
Some Tilak (like sandalwood) have medicinal properties which are beneficial for health.
Calming the effects of planets:
Some tilaks, such as kumkum or roli, help calm the negative effects of planets.
Auspiciousness:
Applying tilak is considered auspicious and is applied before any auspicious task.
Types of tilak and their benefits:
Sandalwood tilak:
Applying sandalwood tilak calms the mind, increases concentration and gives coolness.
Kumkum or roli tilak:
Applying kumkum or roli tilak brings positivity and is considered a symbol of good luck.
Saffron tilak:
Applying saffron tilak increases fame and prosperity.
Gopi Chandan tilak:
Applying gopi chandan tilak gives spiritual benefits and is related to Lord Krishna.
Ashtagandha tilak:
Applying ashtagandha tilak develops knowledge and wisdom.
Bhasm tilak:
Applying bhasm tilak removes negative energy and gives spiritual power.
In Hinduism, different fingers are used to apply tilak on different occasions. Generally, tilak is applied to deities and idols with the ring finger, to oneself with the middle finger, and to ancestors with the index finger. The thumb is used to apply Vijay tilak to special occasions like Rakshabandhan or to the king.
Use of different fingers:
Ring Finger: This finger is considered auspicious for applying tilak to deities, idols, and during pujas, according to The Times of India. It is considered a symbol of devotion and dedication.
Middle Finger: The middle finger is used to apply tilak to oneself, according to NDTV.in. This finger is related to the planet Saturn and is associated with self-purification and inner peace.
Index Finger: The index finger is used to apply tilak to ancestors, according to News18 Hindi. It is also used during Pind Daan.
Thumb: The thumb is usually used to apply tilak on special occasions or to a guest. On Raksha Bandhan, sisters apply tilak to their brother with the thumb, wishing him victory, according to Asianet News Hindi.
Little Finger: The little finger should not be used in any auspicious work.
Choosing the right finger to apply tilak is an important tradition in Hinduism and has deep religious significance.