In Hinduism, the number 108 is considered sacred because it is associated with the Sun, Moon, Earth, astrology, human body and spiritual consciousness. Its importance increases even more on solar festivals like Makar Sankranti. 108 symbolizes perfection and cosmic energy.
108 Number Significance: There are many such numbers in Hindu religion, which are considered not just numbers but symbols of spiritual power. One of these is 108. From chanting to Surya Namaskar, from worship to big religious rituals, 108 has a special place everywhere. Especially on festivals to Sun like Makar Sankranti, the importance of this number increases even more. But why is 108 considered so sacred? And what is its relation with Sun God? Let us understand it in simple language.
The knowledge that our sages and sages acquired through experience and meditation thousands of years ago, stands the test of science even today. The number 108 is considered to be directly to the structure of the universe
According to scientific calculations, the average distance between the Sun and Earth is about 108 times the diameter of the Sun. Not only this, the distance between the Earth and the Moon is also considered to be about 108 times the diameter of the Moon. For this reason, during an eclipse, the Moon is able to completely cover the Sun, because when seen from the Earth, both appear to be of almost the same size. This is not a coincidence but reflects a deep order of the universe, which our ancestors understood long ago.
In Hindu religion, Sun God is considered the source of energy, life and consciousness. The number 108 appears in many religious rituals associated with the Sun. Talking about Surya Namaskar, many seekers practice doing Surya Namaskar 108 times. It is believed that this balances body, mind and soul.
On Makar Sankranti, the Sun becomes Uttarayan, that is, its light and energy is considered auspicious for the earth. Chanting, donation or sun worship done 108 times on this day is considered particularly fruitful.
In Indian astrology also, 108 is considered the number of perfection. According to astrology, there are total 12 zodiac signs and 9 planets are considered. When 12 and 9 are multiplied, the result is 108. A total of 27 constellations are considered in the sky and each constellation is divided into four stages, 27 × 4 = 108. In this way 108 becomes the symbol of the entire cosmic cycle and energy.
The importance of 108 is not limited to the outside universe, but it is also to our body. According to Ayurveda, there are 108 marma points in the human body, which are considered the centers of life energy. This is the reason why 108 beads are kept in the rosary for chanting mantra. When a person chants the mantra 108 times, his consciousness gradually rises above the personal level and connects with the cosmic energy.
Makar Sankranti is not just a festival but a day of harmony with nature and the sun. On this day, chant Surya Mantra 108 times, light 108 lamps, donate 108 times or do Namaskar. All these are considered very auspicious. It is believed that doing measures to 108 on this day brings positive changes in life and leads to spiritual purification.
