The Shri Surya Pratah Smarana Stotram , also known as Surya Stotram, is a Sanskrit hymn to Lord Surya, deity of the sun. This hymn honors Surya for bringing about new beginnings, for supporting the creation of resolutions, and for begetting good health and happiness. In India, it is typically recited at dawn.
For me, the verses of the Surya Stotram provide comfort and remind me of the abiding presence of the source and force of light: our sun. This prayer evokes my faith in that which I can rely on. Thinking of the dharma of the sun—to be effulgent and shine on—inspires my contemplation of my dharma.
Massachusetts, United States
This morning I recited the Surya Stotram aloud. I feel a special affinity for this stotram, as my spiritual name relates to the sun. Throughout the day, I found myself entering deeply into silence. At first, my attention seemed unfocused, but as I allowed myself to be with my experience, I realized that I was effortlessly engaging with silence itself. The silence was comforting and majestic. When I brought myself out of these deep silences to perform my daily actions, I noticed that my mind and body were quite relaxed.
I enjoy spending a lot of time alone. The chants, hymns, and scriptural texts I have learned through Siddha Yoga, like this stotram, have given me a way to be with myself that I realize is rare and precious. I am very grateful for this gift.
