The Significance of Buying Gold on Dhanteras

Dhanteras, celebrated with great zeal across India, is a festival that heralds a time of brightness, joy and hopes for prosperity.

Amidst all the festivities, there’s one tradition that stands out – the purchase of gold. This tradition weaves together the threads of culture, spirituality, and promise.

This festival, also known as ‘Dhanatrayodashi’ or ‘Dhanavantari Trayodashi’, derives its meaning from ‘Dhan’, signifying wealth, and ‘Trayodashi’, denoting the 13th day in the Hindu calendar.

Interestingly, gold isn’t just a commodity; it’s believed to be a key that unlocks doors to good fortune.

Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the significance of buying gold on Dhanteras, a tradition that goes beyond its radiant facade to symbolize hope, culture, and a brighter future.

The Auspiciousness of Buying Gold

Every year, we celebrate Dhanteras on the thirteenth day of Krishna Paksha, according to the Hindu calendar, that is a special time because people believe that Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, visits home on this day to bless them with wealth and prosperity.

It’s believed that Lakshmi brings good luck and prosperity to those who worship her. Therefore, lighting lamps and candles on Dhanteras is a way of inviting her blessings into one’s life. People also use this day to clean their homes, get rid of old things, and buy precious gems, metals, new utensils, and more. These objects symbolize both utility and good luck.

The Legend Behind Dhanteras: The Tale of King Hima

There’s an interesting story about why buying gold is considered lucky on Dhanteras. According to the legend, a 16-year-old King Hima’s horoscope predicted his death by snake bite on the fourth day of his marriage. To save her husband, his newly wedded wife placed a heap of her ornaments, including lots of gold and silver coins, at the entrance of the king’s bedroom.

When Yama (the god of death) came to take the king’s soul, his eyes were blinded by the gleaming gold and silver. Yama couldn’t enter the room, so he sat on the heap of wealth, listening to the stories and songs sung by the king’s wife. Eventually, Yama left quietly without taking the king.

Since then, buying precious metals like gold, silver, and others on Dhanteras is considered lucky.

Indian’s Affection for Gold

Indian households have a special connection with buying gold. India has recently become the largest importer of gold, surpassing China. People find it auspicious to buy gold at festivals like Makar Sakranti, Dussehra, Navratri, Gudi Parva, Diwali, Akshaya Tritiya, and Dhanteras.

Do’s and Dont’s on Dhanteras

Here are some customs to follow and avoid on Dhanteras.

Do’s

1. Light up your home with diyas and candles, and decorate it with rangolis to welcome the festival’s positive energy.
2. Perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening to seek the blessings of the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
3. Clean your house before Dhanteras as it’s believed that Goddess Lakshmi prefers tidy homes.
4. As Lord Dhanvantari is associated with medicine, consider providing basic medicinal supplies to the less fortunate free of cost.

Don’ts

1. When making purchases, choose objects made of copper and brass instead of iron or steel.
2. Don’t lend or borrow money on Dhanteras, as it’s believed to bring financial difficulties.
3. Refrain from buying sharp objects like knives on this day, as they are believed to bring negative energy.
4. Keep away from non-vegetarian or tamasic food items like meat, garlic, and onions, as they are considered impi

Conclusion

Remember, every custom and tradition in India holds a deep significance, and the act of buying gold at the outset of the five-day Diwali festival is no exception. Beyond its cultural importance, gold has consistently proven to be a profitable investment, making Dhanteras an opportune time to invest in this precious metal and kickstart the new year with the promise of prosperity.

Frequently Asked Questions