A Sankalpa is a Resolution

“A sankalpa is a resolution, a statement of truth, a silent vow you make to yourself that is only yours” A Sanskrit word, sankalpa means "will, purpose, or determination." Setting an intention so that the desire can be fulfilled by positively energizing your inner energy. All you need to do is focus your mind, connect to your most heartfelt desires, and channel the divine energy within. A sankalpa is a statement that does this for us. 

The Shani of Sankalpa

Stryker explains that kalpa means vow, or “the rule to be followed above all other rules.” San, he says, refers to a connection with the highest truth. Sankalpa, then, is a vow and commitment we make to support our highest truth. “By definition, a sankalpa should honor the deeper meaning of our life. A sankalpa speaks to the larger arc of our lives, our dharma—our overriding purpose for being here.” The sankalpa becomes a statement you can call upon to remind you of your true nature and guide your choices.

Performing Sankalpa at the beginning of puja we are affirming our connection with the Supreme and asking him to energize our inner consciousness so we may perform our duties to the best of abilities.