Navagraha Worship

Navagraha worship (Sanskrit: नवग्रह पूजा, Navagraha Pūjā) refers to the reverence and propitiation of the nine celestial bodies, or Navagrahas, in Hindu astrology and astronomy. The term "Navagraha" translates to "nine planets" or "nine celestial influences," and includes the Sun (Surya), Moon (Chandra), Mars (Mangala), Mercury (Budha), Jupiter (Brihaspati), Venus (Shukra), Saturn (Shani), Rahu, and Ketu. In Hebrew, this concept does not have a direct translation, but the term "Navagraha" can be transliterated as נבאגרהא. In Tamil, it is known as நவகிரகங்கள் (Navagirahams), and in Telugu as నవగ్రహాలు (Navagrahālu). Navagraha worship is rooted in the belief that these celestial bodies exert significant influence on human lives and destinies. Devotees often perform rituals, chant mantras, and offer prayers to appease these celestial beings, seeking to mitigate any negative astrological effects and enhance positive influences. Temples dedicated to the Navagrahas are found throughout India, with prominent examples in places like Tamil Nadu, where each planet is often represented by a distinct deity and has specific rituals associated with its worship.