Sacred Mondays: The Spiritual Power Behind the First Day of the Week

_Shokesh _
May 12
2 min read

Introduction:

In many cultures and religious traditions, Monday is not just the beginning of a workweek but a deeply spiritual day. Especially in Indian spirituality and Hindu dharma, Monday (Somvar) holds a significant place in worship, fasting, and setting intentions for the week ahead. Here's an in-depth look at why Monday is important spiritually and religiously, with examples from scriptures, practices, and beliefs.

1. Association with Lord Shiva

In Hinduism, Monday is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the god of destruction, meditation, and regeneration. Devotees observe Somvar Vrat (Monday fast) to seek Shiva’s blessings for mental peace, marital harmony, and the removal of obstacles.

Example:

Married women and young girls fast on Mondays in the month of Shravan, a holy month dedicated to Shiva, to seek a good life partner or for the wellbeing of their husband.

In temples like Kashi Vishwanath (Varanasi) and Kedarnath, Monday is the busiest day for darshan and special Shiva Abhishekam rituals.

---

2. Starting the Week with Purity and Intention

Spiritually, Monday represents a fresh beginning—an opportunity to set a positive tone for the entire week.

Why this matters:

People perform morning rituals, meditation, and prayers with renewed focus on Mondays.

Fasting on this day is believed to cleanse the body and mind.

Example:

Many yogis and seekers begin their weekly sadhana (spiritual practice) or detox routines on Mondays.

In Ayurveda and holistic healing, Monday is chosen as a day to start new diets or healing therapies.

---

3. Moon Connection: The Mind and Emotions

The word ‘Somvar’ is derived from ‘Som’ meaning Moon and ‘Var’ meaning day. In Vedic astrology, the Moon governs emotions, thoughts, and the mind, making Monday ideal for mental and emotional healing.

Example:

People chant the Chandra Beej Mantra or perform rituals for calming emotional turbulence.

Mental health counselors who work with Vedic principles often recommend spiritual practices on Monday to balance mental energy.

---

4. Devotion and Silence

Monday is also regarded as a day of silence and self-reflection in many yogic paths. The mind, influenced by the Moon, is more receptive to divine energy on this day.

Example:

Practicing Maun Vrat (vow of silence) on Mondays helps deepen inner clarity.

Saints like Swami Vivekananda and Ramakrishna Paramhansa often emphasized the power of beginning spiritual discipline early in the week.

5. Across Cultures: Monday's Spiritual Echo

While the Hindu tradition has a rich connection with Monday, other cultures also attribute spiritual significance to it.

In Christianity, Monday morning prayers are a tradition in many churches to bless the workweek.

In Islamic tradition, Monday and Thursday are often chosen for voluntary fasting as practiced by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Conclusion:

Monday isn’t just a mundane start to the week—it’s a portal to purification, intention-setting, and divine connection. Whether through fasting, prayers to Lord Shiva, or silent meditation, embracing Monday spiritually can transform one’s inner world and outer actions.

---