Sadhaka: Swami! In the mantras which the Vedas contain, we have the word Svaaha occurring frequently. What does Svaaha mean?

Sai: Good! That word is generally taken to indicate only an expression used while offering oblations in ceremonially-lit fire; people imagine that it is not a Vedic word. They argue it is a technical expression applicable to rituals only. There is a deity named Svaaha Devi, invoked by that word. It also connotes 'the offering of Havis (sacramental food) to the Gods.' So, the word has two meanings. When Havis or other offerings are made to Divinity under Its various forms and in its various names, this word, Svaaha is used. When however, one invokes one's forefathers and invites them to accept ritual offerings, the expression used is svadhaa, not svaaha. Since the word is full of potency, it is revered as the manifestation of Vaak Devi, the Deity presiding over speech.

The rites prescribed as unavoidable for daily life and those that are laid down as optional for the observance of certain holy days, all these have to begin with 'svaaha' pronounced along with the sips of sanctified water (Aachamana). Generally speaking, there are no ritual offerings in the sacred fire without the accompaniment of the manthras, svaaha or svadhaa.

Sadhaka: What is the benefit that accrues when these two manthras, svaaha and svadhaa, are additionally pronounced at the end of Vedic manthras?

Sai: When offerings are given, while svaaha or svadhaa is uttered, the gods (Devathas) or manes (Pitrs) to whom they are directed, will be pleased. Moreover, when those who are well versed in Vedic practices perform the worship of fire in order to offer oblations, and do not utter the prescribed svaaha, the offerings cannot reach the Gods. Svaaha and svadhaa are words which invoke the respective deities. They are manthras which awake and alert the Divine. The Rg Veda declares, "Svaahaa sthoamasya varmanaa". Svaaha has two meanings: (1) the offering made with the uttrance of that manthra, and (2) the vedic statement which conveys praise or glorification. Whether one of the meanings is preferred or both are adopted, the Gods are pleased and they confer progress on the person who pronounces the manthras - svaaha or svadhaa.