Brahma Muhurta

 

Brahma refers to one of the three (Trimurti concept) principal deities in Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism). The other two deities of Trimurti are Vishnu and Shiva. Brahma is primarily known as the creator deity, who is responsible for the creation of the universe and all living beings. He is often depicted as the one who initiates the process of cosmic creation. His creation is seen as a continuous process that regenerates life and order.

Muhurta is a Sanskrit term meaning division of time – 1/30 of a day, or a period of 48 minutes. There are 15 Muhurtas in the day and 15 in the night.

Brahma Muhurta or Brahmamuhurta is a Sanskrit word meaning “time of Brahma,” “time of divinity,” or “the creator’s time.” It is the earliest part of the morning considered highly auspicious in Hinduism, just before sunrise, when our prana or life force energy is considered to be strongest.

Brahmamuhurta is the 14th muhurta kala of the night (or second to last). Brahma Muhurta is a 48 minutes period that starts one hour and 36 minutes before sunrise and ends 48 minutes before sunrise, meaning that the time of sunrise determines the Brahma Muhurta. For better understanding with an example, if sunrises at 6 a.m., Brahma Muhurta time will start at 4:24 a.m. and end at 5:12 a.m.

The practice of rising during Brahma Muhurta is widely observed in Sanatana Dharma. Brahma muhurta is said to be the most conducive to spiritual practice, yoga, pranayama, meditation, worship or any other religious practice. It is thus believed that spiritual activities performed during Brahma Muhurta have a greater effect than in any other part of the day.

It is a time of transition and when your mind is most in tune with the subtle energies of nature and in the perfect state of balance. During Brahma Muhurta period, the air is calm and peaceful, and the silence brings a sense of serenity and enhances concentration, mental clarity, divine insight and creativity, to its calming mental effects and its potential to improve overall health. 

1.          References in Sanatana Dharma Scriptures

The Sanatana Dharma Scriptures, dating back thousands of years do not explicitly mention Brahma Muhurta. However, they contain numerous references to the significance of the morning hours. For example:

1.1.     Bhagavad Gita 2.69: The term Brahma Muhurta is not explicitly mentioned in Bhagavad Gita but the concepts emphasized in the Bhagavad Gita such as meditation and spiritual awakening are closely aligned with the practices traditionally performed during Brahma Muhurta.

Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 69, Sanskrit Shloka;

या निशा सर्वभूतानां तस्यां जागर्ति संयमी।
यस्यां जाग्रति भूतानि सा निशा पश्यतो मुनेः।।

Yā niśhā sarva-bhūtānāṁ tasyāṁ jāgarti san’yamī
yasyāṁ jāgrati bhūtāni sā niśhā paśhyato muneḥ

"That which is night for all beings is the time of awakening for the self-disciplined; and the time in which all beings are awake is night for the introspective sage."

This verse speaks of the difference in perception between a spiritually enlightened person (yogi or sage) and ordinary beings. For the introspective sage what the world considers "night" (metaphorically, a state of ignorance or lack of awareness) is the time of deep spiritual awareness and awakening for the yogi.

The shloka's metaphor of night and day highlights the differing perspectives of worldly individuals versus spiritual seekers, much like how Brahma Muhurta is a time when spiritually inclined people awaken to higher truths while others remain in a state of rest or ignorance.

1.2.     Upanishads

Mundaka Upanishad 1.2.12: “In the early hours, when the world slumbers, the wise awaken to the timeless reality”

Mundaka Upanishad Chapter 1, Section 2, Verse 12 (1.2.12), Sanskrit Shloka;

तद्विज्ञानार्थं स गुरुमेवाभिगच्छेत्।
समित्पाणिः श्रोत्रियं ब्रह्मनिष्ठम्।।

Tad vijñānārthaṁ sa gurum evābhigacchet
samitpāṇiḥ śrotriyaṁ brahma-niṣṭham

"To understand that (Brahman), one must approach a guru, carrying firewood in hand, who is learned in the Vedas and established in Brahman."

This verse underscores the necessity of seeking a knowledgeable and enlightened teacher (guru) to comprehend the nature of Brahman. The act of carrying firewood symbolizes the student's readiness to serve and learn. The guru, being well-versed in the Vedas and established in Brahman, guides the seeker towards spiritual realization.

It does not explicitly mention "Brahma Muhurta." However, it does emphasize the importance of pursuing knowledge of Brahman, which aligns with the spiritual practices associated with Brahma Muhurta.

1.3.     Vedic Origins

Rig Veda 7.75.8: “May the dawn grant us insight, and may we find the strength to pursue wisdom”

Rig Veda Chapter 7, Section 75, Verse 8 (7.75.8), Sanskrit Shloka;

उषा इव सूर्येण सचस्वती तस्तम्भ स्वयं तरणिर्भ्राजदृश्विता |
विश्वा अग्मन्नसितेषु सुष्टुतिमगन्म हव्यदातये दिवे-दिवे ||

Uṣā iva sūryeṇa sacasvatī tastambha svayaṁ taraṇir bhrājadṛśvitā
viśvā agmann asiteṣu suṣṭutim aganma havyadātaye dive-dive

"Like the Dawn (Uṣā), in association with the Sun, she upholds herself. The bright and swift one is self-sustaining. We have come across all obstacles and offered our song of praise day after day to invoke the divine."

While Rig Veda 7.75.8 doesn't directly reference Brahma Muhurta, it aligns with the theme of dawn worship, emphasizing the importance of the early morning for spiritual invocations.

1.4.     Srimad Bhagavatam

Srimad Bhagavatam, Canto 11, Chapter 27, Verse 29, Sanskrit Shloka;

प्रातरुत्थाय योगेशः प्रातरुन्मीलितेक्षणः।

"Prātar utthāya yogeśaḥ prātar unmīlitekṣaṇaḥ."

"Early in the morning, the great yogis awaken and engage in devotional service."

This verse emphasizes the importance of Brahma Muhurta for spiritual practitioners. During this time, the mind is calm and undisturbed, making it ideal for focusing on one's devotional practices. Devotees are encouraged to engage in chanting, meditation, and remembrance of God, as this time brings heightened spiritual benefits.

1.5.     Hatha Yoga Pradipika

Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Chapter 1, Verse 11, Sanskrit Shloka;

ब्राह्मे मुहूर्ते च योगाभ्यासो न तु रात्रौ भोजनानंतरं।

"Brāhme muhūrte ca yogābhyāso na tu rātrau bhojanānantaraṃ."

"Yoga practice should be done in Brahma Muhurta, and not after eating at night."

The Hatha Yoga Pradipika advises practicing yoga in Brahma Muhurta as the body and mind are most receptive at this time. Engaging in yoga during this period enhances physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual connection. The text also warns against practicing yoga after eating at night, highlighting the importance of a disciplined routine for yogic practice.

1.6.     Mahabharata

Mahabharata, Anusasana Parva, Chapter 106, Verse 10, Sanskrit Shloka;

प्रातरेव उत्तिष्ठेत धर्मार्थे कृते हि।

"Prātar eva uttiṣṭhet dharmārthe kṛte hi."

"One should rise early in the morning for the purpose of following dharma (righteousness)."

The Mahabharata also emphasizes waking up early in the morning to align with one's duties, including religious practices. Rising during Brahma Muhurta enhances one's commitment to spiritual and ethical duties, aiding in the pursuit of righteousness.

1.7.     Ramayana

Valmiki Ramayana, Ayodhya Kanda, Chapter 22, Verse 5, Sanskrit Shloka;

ब्राह्मे मुहूर्ते उत्तिष्ठ राजा धर्ममतिक्रम।

"Brāhme muhūrte uttiṣṭha rājā dharmam atikram."

"The king (Rama) rises in Brahma Muhurta, following the path of righteousness."

In the Ramayana, Brahma Muhurta is described as the time when Lord Rama and other noble figures wake up to perform their spiritual and royal duties. This passage underlines the importance of early rising for those who wish to live by dharma and fulfill their responsibilities with a clear mind.

1.8.     Manusmriti (Laws of Manu)

Manusmriti 4.92: "He who in the last watch of the night, being pure and attentive, reads the Veda, gains the benefit of a full sacrifice."

Manu Smriti, Chapter 4, Verse 92, Sanskrit Shloka;

प्रभाते कृत्यं कर्तव्यं धर्मं युक्तं च संहितम्।

"Prabhāte kṛtyaṃ kartavyaṃ dharmaṃ yuktaṃ ca saṃhitam."

"In the early morning, one should perform their daily duties, engaging in righteousness and virtuous activities."

Though the exact term "Brahma Muhurta" is not used here, the verse speaks of performing one’s dharma (righteous duties) early in the morning. This aligns with the idea that Brahma Muhurta is the most suitable time for beginning the day with focus on spiritual and moral duties, including prayer, meditation, and study.

1.9.     Puranas

Bhagavata Purana: This Purana highlights the practice of waking up early and engaging in spiritual activities. Though not specifying exact times, it emphasizes the early morning hours' importance for devotion and meditation.

The Bhagavata Purana mentions the significance of Brahma Muhurta and highlights that this time is highly suitable for meditation and devotion, particularly for devotees of Lord Krishna and other spiritual seekers.

In Canto 10, the text describes how Lord Krishna and his friends (the gopis and cowherd boys) would wake up during Brahma Muhurta to begin their daily activities and devotions.

Brahmamuhurte uttaya yogam adhyayate budhah (Bhagavata Purana, Canto 10, Chapter 87).

"The wise ones rise in Brahma Muhurta and engage in yoga and meditation."

Padma Purana: It mentions the importance of early morning activities and rituals, supporting the notion of Brahma Muhurta as a sacred time for spiritual practices.

Vishnu Purana: The Vishnu Purana also touches upon the auspicious nature of Brahma Muhurta. It suggests that the benefits of performing morning rituals (like Sandhya Vandana and Japa) are maximized when performed during this sacred time.

The text describes how divine beings and sages make use of this time for their meditation and prayers.

"Brahma Muhurta is the time for those who seek liberation to meditate on the Supreme Lord."

1.10.  Ashtanga Hridayam (Ayurveda Text)

One of the principal texts of Ayurveda written by Acharya Vagbhata talks about Brahma Muhurta in relation to the daily routine (Dinacharya).

It is stated that waking up during Brahma Muhurta (roughly 1.5 hours before sunrise) is ideal for maintaining health and longevity. According to Ayurveda, the environment during this time is sattvic (pure), and the mind is clear and fresh, which makes it suitable for meditation, prayer, and other spiritual practices.

Brahma muhurte uttishthayet swastho rakshartham aayushah (Ashtanga Hridayam, Sutrasthana, Chapter 2, Verse 1).

"One should wake up in Brahma Muhurta to protect and prolong life."

1.11.  Charaka Samhita (Ayurveda Text)

Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana, Chapter 1, Verse 13 Sanskrit Shloka;

"ब्राह्मे मुहूर्ते उत्तिष्ठेत स्वस्थो रक्षार्थमायुषः।"

"Brāhme muhūrte uttiṣṭhet svastho rakṣārtham āyuṣaḥ."

"One should rise during Brahma Muhurta for the sake of protecting one’s health and longevity."

According to Charaka Samhita, Brahma Muhurta is an ideal time for waking up, as the body and mind are naturally in a balanced state. This practice supports both physical health and spiritual well-being. Ayurveda recommends using this time for yoga, meditation, and self-care, as it is considered the most sattvic (pure) time of day, when mental clarity is at its peak.

1.12.  Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Although Patanjali's Yoga Sutras do not explicitly mention Brahma Muhurta, they underscore the significance of a disciplined routine and the purity of mind for meditation (Dhyana). The early morning, especially Brahma Muhurta, is considered by many yogis as the ideal time for such practices.

Many traditional yogic teachings stemming from Patanjali’s principles prescribe Brahma Muhurta for spiritual sadhana (practice) as it is considered the best time for deep meditation due to the calmness of the mind and environment.

2.          Significance of Brahma Muhurta

Brahma Muhurta holds significant importance in Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism) as a spiritually auspicious period for deep spiritual practices, meditation, prayer for maintaining mental and physical health. At this quiet, still time of day, practitioners have the ability to concentrate more intensely on their practice. Several key points regarding its significance are:

2.1.     Spiritual Awakening: Brahma Muhurta is viewed as a time when the environment is charged with spiritual energy, making it conducive for introspection and meditation. It is believed that the mind is at its calmest and most focused during these hours, facilitating a deeper connection with the divine.

2.2.     Ayurvedic and Health Benefits: From an Ayurvedic perspective, waking up during Brahma Muhurta is believed to promote good health. This period aligns with the body's natural rhythms and helps regulate biological functions. Early risers are often encouraged to engage in yoga or pranayama (breathing exercises) to enhance physical and mental well-being.

2.3.     Enhanced Learning and Memory: Research has shown that studying or engaging in intellectual pursuits during this time can lead to better retention and understanding. The quietude of early morning allows for focused study, making it an ideal time for students and spiritual seekers alike to engage with sacred texts or philosophy.

2.4.     Cultural Practices and Rituals: Brahma Muhurta is also integral to various cultural practices and rituals. Many Hindus perform Sandhyavandanam, a prayer ritual, during this time, which includes offerings to deities and recitation of mantras. This practice emphasizes discipline and connection to tradition, fostering a sense of community and spirituality.

2.5.     Philosophical Teachings: The teachings of various Upanishads and texts like the Bhagavad Gita, Bhagavata Purana highlight the importance of disciplined living, emphasizing its spiritual importance. The concept of Brahma Muhurta aligns with the teachings of self-control, mindfulness, and devotion, values that are central to Sanatana Dharma.

3.          Conclusion

In essence, Brahma Muhurta is not just a time for waking up; it symbolizes a holistic approach to life, intertwining physical health, spiritual growth, and intellectual clarity. Its significance permeates various aspects of Sanatana Dharma, guiding practitioners toward a balanced and enlightened way of living.