How to Apologize for Eating Rice on Ekadashi

Many dedicated followers of Vedic practices strictly adhere to Ekadashi, a purification ritual in the Vaishnava calendar. If you have accidentally consumed rice or any forbidden food (such as onion, garlic, or meat) on Ekadashi, there are steps you can take to rectify your mistake and regain spiritual purity. This article provides guidance on how to apologize for eating rice on Ekadashi, ensuring you can maintain your spiritual practice effectively.

The Significance of Ekadashi in the Brahma-vaivarta Purana

The Brahma-vaivarta Purana contains a dialogue between Bhima and Vyasa, where it is emphasized the importance of observing Ekadashi, particularly the Jyeshtha-shukla Ekadasi, which falls on 21st June 2021 this year. Vyasa explains that observing this particular Ekadashi without even drinking water or eating is even more meritorious than observing it in the normal manner. He stresses that such a difficult fast on this day can cleanse one of all sins and equate to the benefit of observing other Ekadasis as well.

Observing Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi

When the Pandavas, especially Bhima, heard the benefits of observing Jyeshtha-shukla Ekadasi, they resolved to follow Vyasa's guidance strictly. They observed a complete fast, including no drinking of water and no eating, and this day became known as Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi. This practice of fasting without any intake of food or water is known as Nirjala Ekadashi.

Apologizing for Eating Rice on Ekadashi

Even if you are unable to observe the strict fast, there are still ways to make amends. If you are particularly concerned about eating rice on Ekadashi, it is recommended to consume only fruits or Samak rice, which is considered the most suitable food for this day. However, if you cannot avoid eating rice at all, you can correct your mistake by chanting the Hare Krishna mantra on the next Ekadashi.

To do this, you can chant the following Maha Mantra, which is also known as the Hare Krishna Mantra, at least 16 rounds on the next upcoming Ekadashi. On normal days, you should chant this Maha Mantra at least 5 rounds daily:

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Ram Hare Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare

Chanting this mantra is believed to help in purifying your mind and soul, and it can bring about a sense of relaxation and peace. By following these steps, you can rectify your mistake and continue on your spiritual journey with renewed determination.

Conclusion

Observing Ekadashi with strict adherence is a noble practice, and if you accidentally consume forbidden food, there are ways to make amends. By following the guidance provided in the Brahma-vaivarta Purana and chanting the Hare Krishna mantra, you can maintain your spiritual discipline and ensure that your actions align with your spiritual goals. Remember, the essence of Ekadashi is not just about fasting, but about purifying the mind and soul.