Why is it considered inappropriate to eat at dusk? – The Cultural and Scientific Reasons
In traditional beliefs and teachings, there are certain things that should not be done at specific times of the day, such as eating, sleeping, or cutting nails. One such rule is that eating during the evening, particularly at sunset, is discouraged. This is not merely a superstition; there are both cultural and scientific reasons behind this practice.
1. Spiritual Significance of the Twilight Period
The time around sunset, known as “Sundown Sandhya,” is considered a sacred moment in many spiritual practices. It is believed that during this time, divine energies are most potent, as the sun sets and the cosmic forces transition. This period is often seen as a time for prayers, lighting lamps, and engaging in meditation or spiritual rituals.
The saying,
“Light a lamp and welcome the divine during evening; do not eat,”
means that this time is best reserved for connecting with higher energies and focusing on spiritual practices. If mundane activities like eating or sleeping are done at this time, it is believed that one may miss out on the benefits of this sacred transition.
2. The Arrival of Goddess Lakshmi
The evening time is also considered the period when Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, is believed to visit homes. It is important to ensure the house is clean, lit up with lamps, and welcoming for the goddess. Eating, sleeping, or performing other non-spiritual activities during this time is seen as disrespecting her presence.
3. Health and Digestive Reasons
From a modern medical perspective, eating late in the evening is not ideal. The human digestive system works best when food is consumed earlier in the day, as digestion slows down during the night. Eating heavy meals in the evening can lead to poor digestion, weight gain, and other digestive issues like acid reflux or indigestion. This is why nutritionists and health experts often recommend an early dinner to maintain overall health.
4. The Prohibition of Cutting Nails and Other Activities
In earlier times, before the advent of electricity, it was dangerous to cut nails or perform detailed activities at night due to the lack of proper lighting. These activities were seen as requiring careful attention, and doing them in poor light could lead to accidents. Although we have electricity today, these practices are still followed as part of cultural discipline.
The tradition of avoiding eating at dusk is not just about following arbitrary rules but about maintaining a balance between spiritual practices, health, and discipline. These ancient customs have been passed down through generations, and following them can contribute to a more harmonious and mindful lifestyle. Respecting these cultural traditions allows individuals to align with both the spiritual energies of the universe and the natural rhythms of the body.
