Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian architectural science, provides comprehensive guidelines for harmonizing living spaces with natural energies. Among the many household items addressed by these principles, the broom holds a unique and significant position. It is not merely a tool for cleaning but is deeply intertwined with spiritual and financial well-being. According to traditional beliefs, the broom is closely associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Treating the broom with respect and adhering to specific Vastu rules regarding its purchase, storage, and usage is believed to invite positive energy and financial stability into the home. The provided sources emphasize that neglecting these guidelines may lead to the displeasure of Goddess Lakshmi, potentially resulting in financial hardships and the accumulation of negative energies. This article explores the specific Vastu recommendations for buying a broom, the correct methods for storing it within the household, and the proper conduct required to maintain a harmonious environment.
The Spiritual Significance of the Broom
In Hindu tradition and Vastu Shastra, the broom is regarded as a manifestation of Goddess Lakshmi herself. It is believed that when the Goddess arrived at Vaikunth, she purified the space using a broomstick. Consequently, the broom is considered a sacred object that clears not just physical dirt but also negative vibrations from the home. Maintaining the broom in accordance with Vastu principles is believed to ensure that the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi remain upon the household, fostering peace, prosperity, and happiness. Disrespecting the broom—by hitting it, throwing it, or keeping it in a broken condition—is considered a grave error that attracts negativity and blocks the flow of abundance.
Guidelines for Purchasing a Broom
The timing of purchasing a broom is crucial in Vastu Shastra. The selection of the right day is believed to align the household with auspicious energies, ensuring that the new broom brings positive results rather than misfortune.
Auspicious Days for Purchase
According to the sources, Friday and Tuesday are considered highly auspicious days for buying a broom. Purchasing on these days is said to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and ensure that "mother luck" favors the residents. Additionally, buying a broom during festivals specifically dedicated to wealth, such as Dhanteras and Diwali, is also recommended to keep the economic situation strong.
Inauspicious Days and Periods
Conversely, there are specific days and lunar phases that must be avoided to prevent negative consequences. * Saturday: Buying a broom on a Saturday is explicitly labeled as inauspicious. It is believed that doing so prevents Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings from entering the home and may lead to financial struggles. * Monday: Purchasing a broom on the first day of the week is also discouraged, as it is believed to bring financial loss, hardship, and an increase in debt. * Panchak: The period known as Panchak is strictly prohibited for any auspicious activities, including the purchase of a broom. Engaging in such activities during Panchak is believed to yield inauspicious results. * Lunar Phases: The sources advise always buying a broom during Krishna Paksha (the waning moon phase). A broom bought during Shukla Paksha (the waxing moon phase) is considered a sign of bad luck and may cause the abandonment of good fortune, leading to financial struggle.
Correct Storage and Placement of the Broom
Where and how a broom is stored within the home significantly impacts the flow of energy. Improper placement is believed to disrupt financial stability and spiritual harmony.
Recommended Directions
The north-west or west directions are identified as the ideal locations for storing the broom. Placing the broom in these zones pleases Goddess Lakshmi, showering blessings upon the house and keeping financial problems at bay. Some sources also mention the south direction as a favorable option for storage.
Zones to Avoid
Certain areas of the home must be strictly avoided to prevent energetic disruption: * Northeast (Ishan Kona): Keeping a broom in the northeast corner is thought to bring financial setbacks and blockages. * Southeast (Agneya Kona): This corner should also be avoided for broom storage. * Sacred and Living Areas: The broom should never be kept in the prayer room (pooja room), kitchen, or bedroom. These areas require purity and positive energy, which can be disrupted by the broom. * Open Sight: The broom should always be hidden from direct view, ideally inside a closed cabinet or store room. Keeping it standing upright is considered inauspicious; it should be laid down flat.
Proper Usage and Maintenance
Respectful handling and timely replacement of the broom are essential for maintaining positive energy.
Usage Etiquette
- Avoid Physical Contact: One should never let their feet touch the broom, as this is considered disrespectful and can anger Goddess Lakshmi.
- Handling: Do not hit or throw the broom. Such acts invite negative energies.
- Sweeping Timings: It is advised to sweep the house during the first four hours of the day (morning). Sweeping at night or during the latter part of the day is considered inappropriate, as it is believed to drive away incoming wealth and good fortune. Historically, this rule also served a practical purpose: preventing valuable items from being swept away in the dark.
Replacement and Disposal
- Broken Brooms: A broken or old broom must be replaced immediately. Keeping a damaged broom attracts negativity, stagnation, and obstacles in life.
- Disposal: Old brooms should be discarded respectfully outside the house. The sources suggest that discarding them on Amavasya (new moon day) or a Saturday helps remove poverty and welcome positive energy.
- Quantity: While having separate brooms for indoor and outdoor use is acceptable, one should avoid storing too many brooms at once in the store room.
Conclusion
The broom is a powerful tool in Vastu Shastra, serving as a bridge between physical cleanliness and spiritual prosperity. By strictly following the guidelines regarding the timing of purchase, placement within the home, and respectful usage, individuals can align their living spaces with the energies of Goddess Lakshmi. These practices are designed to clear away negative vibrations and create an environment conducive to abundance and well-being. Adhering to these traditional rules ensures that the household remains a sanctuary of positivity, protected from financial hardships and energetic stagnation.