In our Sanatan Dharma, each deity has a unique way of being worshipped. For instance, Goddess Durga is fond of beauty and adornments, while Lord Shiva prefers ash and Bel leaves. Similarly, the worship of Hanuman Ji is also associated with specific rules. Particularly, the question of why women are not allowed to touch the feet of Hanuman Ji's idol often sparks curiosity. This is not a matter of orthodox thinking, but rather, there is a profound religious and spiritual sentiment behind it, which is essential to understand.
Hanuman Ji: An Ideal Celibate and Dedicated Servant
Hanuman Ji is known as a devotee of Lord Rama, a remover of obstacles (Sankat Mochan), and the giver of eight supernatural powers (Ashta Siddhis). He is considered to be the 11th Rudra avatar of Lord Shiva, and his contribution to the Ramayana is unparalleled. He was a celibate (Brahmachari) and observed celibacy throughout his life. His character is a symbol of self-control, devotion, and service.
Hanuman Ji never looked at any woman with lustful eyes. He considered Mata Sita as a mother. The Ramayana clearly describes that when Hanuman Ji went to meet Mata Sita in Ashok Vatika, he addressed her as 'Mother'.
Why don't women touch Hanuman Ji's feet?
This belief is not just a part of tradition, but a spiritual discipline. Here are the main reasons behind it:
1. The Discipline of Celibacy: Hanuman Ji is an ideal celibate. He maintained mental, physical, and behavioral distance from women. Therefore, while worshipping him, a woman touching his idol or feet is considered a violation of the discipline of celibacy.
2. Respect for Motherhood: Hanuman Ji has given the status of mother to all women. Just as a son does not touch his mother's feet, he does not want women to touch his feet. This is a symbol of respect for the maternal bond.
3. The Ritual of Humble Salutation: It is suggested for women that they should not touch Hanuman Ji's feet, but can worship him by joining their hands, lighting a ghee lamp, reciting the Chalisa, and offering flowers. This is also considered a symbol of complete faith and devotion.
Can women worship Hanuman Ji?
Yes, women can worship Hanuman Ji, but it is necessary to follow certain disciplines:
- They can recite the Hanuman Chalisa, Sundar Kand, Bajrang Baan, etc.
- They can enter the Hanuman temple but should not touch the idol.
- They should maintain purity and self-control while worshipping.
- They should refrain from worship during their menstrual cycle, as this time is not considered suitable according to the standards of religious purity.
Benefits of Devotion to Hanuman Ji for Women
Although touching the idol is prohibited, women can also get many benefits by being devoted to Hanuman Ji:
- Protection from Negative Energies: Hanuman Ji protects from evil spirits, the evil eye, and negative forces.
- Blessing of Child: Regular recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa helps women in getting the happiness of having children.
- Peace and Security in the Home: By reciting the Hanuman Chalisa daily, positive energy remains in the house.
What does Astrology say?
According to astrology, worshipping Hanuman Ji on Fridays and Tuesdays is considered especially auspicious and fruitful. Astrologer Dr. Arvind Mishra says that women can worship Hanuman Ji, but instead of touching the idol, they should worship with faith and devotion in their minds. By doing this, they also receive blessings, and religious discipline is maintained.
Servant of Sri Ram, Like a Son to Sita
Hanuman Ji is considered the greatest devotee of Lord Rama and is like a son to Mata Sita. He gives immense respect to women and wants that no woman should bow down at his feet. For this reason, Hanuman Ji himself always bows his head humbly before women and looks at them with reverence and respect. This behavior of his is considered a symbol of discipline, devotion, and culture.
The tradition associated with the worship of Hanuman Ji and the touching of his feet is not just religious discipline, but an expression of a deep spiritual feeling. He considers women as mothers and has a feeling of respect for them. Therefore, following discipline in his worship is to respect the feelings of Hanuman Ji himself. In devotion, feeling is paramount, not touch.
