Significance of Twelve nights
Twelve nights is a concept that embodies both spiritual dedication and specific practices. Kavya highlights that it represents the time Mrigankadatta devoted to fasting and worshiping Ganesha, emphasizing dedication and perseverance. According to Dharmashastra, this period includes practices like breath suppression and recitation of texts, alongside restrictions regarding physical intimacy after marriage. Thus, Twelve nights serves as a significant timeframe for both personal devotion and adherence to spiritual guidelines.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Twelve nights'
In Hinduism, Twelve nights symbolize dedication to Ganesha through fasting, a restriction period post-wedding, and a time for spiritual practices like breath control and text recitation, reflecting perseverance and devotion.
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) A duration during which specific spiritual practices, including breath suppression and recitation of texts, are to be performed.[1]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) A defined period during which certain restrictions are applied, particularly concerning physical intimacy after the wedding.[2]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The period Mrigankadatta dedicated to fasting and worshiping Ganesha, symbolizing dedication and perseverance.[3]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The duration specified for undertaking the Krichchhra penance as part of the expiation process after breaking vows.[4]
The concept of Twelve nights in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Twelve nights" relates to the context of an additional time span within a thirteen-year exile, calculated according to the 5-year yuga system, emphasizing its significance in regional interpretations of time and cyclical patterns.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) The text mentions twelve nights as part of the additional time for the thirteen years of exile, calculated in the 5-year yuga system.[5]