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Thursday, 17 August 2023

Conch | Conch shell | Queen Conch Shell

Conch (Shankh)

 

Spiritual and Cultural Significance of Conch

In ancient India, sages had scientific qualities along with divine qualities. He gained knowledge of their highly beneficial properties through the study of various types of conch shells.

Two types of shells are specially recognized,

1. Closed mouth (Voiceless)

2. Open-mouthed (With Sound)

The soundless conch is held with the left hand only. Of course, the left-hand goes to his stomach to catch him in the right position. Conversely, the conch shell is held in the right hand. Conchs that are held in the right hand also include closed-mouth conchs. But they don't have that much approval.

Voiceless conch shells held in the left hand are less common. While other types of shells are found in abundance. Conch has sea power i.e. it contains water elements. But when it plays, the air element is also involved. Of course, it is also an aerator. Everyone knows the importance of air and water in keeping humans alive. Because of this, one must blow the conch every day. But, along with this, the convenience of others should also be considered. Go to an open place or to a temple and play the conch shell.

Conchs are classified into different family categories by classifying them according to their properties, size, appearance, etc. In most of the Indian Ocean and the Caribbean, conches ranging from 2.5 inches to 24 inches are found. These are thick or thin layers.

Dakshinavarti conch is used in worship. This conch is in the hand of Shri Vishnu. So Lakshmi also loved him. It is believed that wherever there is a Dakshinavarti conch, there will also be Lakshmi blessings.

A second ringing conch is also useful for making conch sounds in worship. Of course, they welcome God by playing it. Overall this is part of worship.

World famous scientist Dr. Jagdish Chandra Bose also understood the importance of conch sound and concluded that daily blowing of conch shells destroys harmful germs in the body which cannot be destroyed by medicines or any exercise.

Also, drinking the water kept at night inside of Shankh is very beneficial for the body. From the five senses, mouth disease, stuttering, lung disease, asthma, stomach disease, headache, etc. Benefits of this disease.

Conch shelling also destroys the harmful germs that are present in the environment and are circulating around the person. Shankh Bhasma is also used in Ayurveda. A person who cannot play the conch can also benefit from the sound of the conch. E.g. Heart patients, pregnant women, etc.

Things of religious and cultural significance have had an important place in Indian culture since ancient times. It has a unique symbol, called "CONCH". The conch is the sound that is echoed in our music as a sign of respect for knowledge and meditation. Here we are going to know the reasons behind the significance, spiritual and cultural importance of the conch. Conchs are also used for decoration.

It is often made into jewelry, toys, and other items.

 Shellfish are an important part of the marine ecosystem.

 They clean water and feed other animals.

Some more about Conch:

A conch is a marine mollusk. It is a sea snail, which means it has a single shell. A conch shell usually has a high crest and a noticeable siphonal canal (i.e., the shell comes to a noticeable point at both ends).

There are many species of conch, but the most famous is the Queen Conch.

The queen conch is native to the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They can grow up to 12 inches long and weigh up to 10 pounds. Their shells are prized for their beauty and are often used as decorations or musical instruments.

In addition to their culinary and decorative uses, conch shells have been used throughout history for religious and ceremonial purposes. In Hindu mythology, the conch is considered a sacred object associated with Lord Vishnu. It is said to represent the sound of creation and is often used in religious ceremonies.

Blowing conch shells also destroys harmful germs present in the environment and circulating around the sick person.

Shankh Bhasma is also used in Ayurveda. Even a person who cannot play the conch can benefit from the sound of the conch. Like heart patients, pregnant women, etc.

The conch is also a symbol of power and authority in many cultures. For example, in the Caribbean, conch shells are used to invite people to gatherings or celebrations. It is also used as a sign of danger or warning.

Conch is a special type of marine pearl, found in the oceans. It is cephalic and cylindrical in shape and is commonly found in southern seas. His voice has a unique quality, which is used as "Om" for spiritual and cultural significance.

Spiritual Significance:

The spiritual significance of conch shells is deeply rooted in Indian culture. The conch is mentioned many times in the Vedas and is considered a sacred and spiritual symbol. The sound of the conch shell as 'Om' is used in various religious rituals, helping to create a primal and peaceful atmosphere.

1. Useful in Meditation: Meditation is a spiritual process in which one tries to bring one's mind to a still and calm state. Meditation using the conch sound as 'Om' brings mental peace and stability.

2. Use in Worship: The tradition of using conch shells in religious worship is particularly prevalent in Hinduism. Hearing conch sound during puja calms people's minds and attracts them to spiritual heights.

3. Auspicious Beginning: Hinduism has a unique traditional use of blowing conch as the beginning of any auspicious work. Its sound effect stimulates the psyche of people and fills them with positive energy.

Less common are Voiceless Conch shells held in the left hand. While other types of shells are found in abundance. Conch shells have the power of the sea, that is, they contain the element of Water. But when it rings, it also includes the element of Air. Of course, it is also an air carrier. Everyone knows the importance of air and water to sustain human life. For this, conch should be played daily. Exercises our Lungs and Cheeks.

Conchologists have classified shellfish according to their quality, size, shape, etc., and divided them into different family categories. Shells ranging from 2.5 inches to 24 inches are found in most parts of the Indian Ocean and the Caribbean. It has thick and thin layers.

Cultural Significance:

The cultural importance of the conch shell is widely seen in Indian culture. It is a symbol that reminds us of our culture, customs, and diversity.

1. Tone of voice: The voice of a conch is unique and recognizable. This voice has become a distinct identity of Indian culture and plays an important role in the cultural dimension.

2. Traditional Use: Conch is traditionally used in Hindu weddings, pujas, festivals, and important events. Its use makes cultural events more attractive and stimulates people's feelings about culture.

3. Arts and Crafts: The beautiful shape and various designs of conch shells are used for collection. It helps them to make new and exciting discoveries in the field of cultural arts and crafts.

4. Symbol of culture: The conch is a symbol of our culture, reminding us of our heritage and core values. It is a living symbol that rises from the changing sea of time and reminds us of our core cultural values.

Here are some more facts about conch:

The Conch shell is composed of about 95% calcium carbonate and 5% organic matter.

• Shellfish are filter feeders, meaning they filter out small organisms in the water.

• Conchs can live up to 20 years.

• Shellfish are essential to the marine ecosystem. They clean water and feed other animals.

• A conch shell makes a beautiful and melodious sound when blown into the air.

• The sound of the conch is considered auspicious and is often played during religious ceremonies. Conch is considered a symbol of power and authority in many cultures.

Summary

The conch is a symbol of spiritual and cultural importance embedded in the deep heritage of Indian culture. It symbolizes the beauty of sound as well as our spirituality, mythological history, and diversity. It is used in meditation, worship, ceremonial instruments, and cultural events, revealing a unique part of Indian culture. Conch's important place in religion, spirituality, and culture gives us a sense of uniqueness and unity.

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