Why women should refrain from religious activities during periods?
Physical Weakness During Menstruation
Women experience physical weakness during menstruation, which is why they are often advised to take rest. This internal strain affects their energy levels, leading to the recommendation of avoiding strenuous tasks.
Premanand Maharaj's Perspective on Preparing Prasad
Premanand Maharaj, a preacher from Vrindavan, has expressed his views on whether women should prepare prasad during their periods. According to him, religious scriptures suggest that prasad should not be prepared by women during the first three days of menstruation.
The Reality of Household Life and Menstruation
Maharaj explains that women living a household life naturally have to experience menstruation. It is a biological process that cannot be avoided, yet certain guidelines should be followed during this time.
Scriptural Guidelines for Women During Menstruation
Premanand Maharaj emphasizes that women should adhere to the guidelines mentioned in scriptures during the three days of menstruation. This includes refraining from certain religious activities.
Women Should Focus on Prayer and Devotion
During these three days, Maharaj advises that women should concentrate on chanting God’s name and practicing devotion rather than engaging in tasks like preparing prasad or reading holy texts.
Devotion Through Chanting and Bhajans
Despite these restrictions, Maharaj encourages women to engage in devotion through chanting, bhajans, and meditation. This, he believes, brings spiritual fulfillment without violating religious principles.
Jaya Kishori’s View on Menstruation and Rest
Spiritual speaker Jaya Kishori has also shared her perspective on this issue. She points out that in earlier times, women didn’t have access to modern menstrual hygiene products, leading to the practice of advising rest during menstruation.
Menstrual Hygiene and Modern-Day Practices
Kishori adds that the advice for women to rest during their periods stemmed from a lack of menstrual hygiene products in earlier times. Today, with modern amenities, some of these customs may seem outdated but still carry cultural significance.